Sorry for asking so many questions, but I have a couple re: routers.
1. I have a fixed router with small table that works nice for trime and stuff, but I understand that a plunge router would also sometimes come in useful. For instance, in building a wood warehouse, the sides could be routed to give the impression of vertical planking. I was thinking of mass-producing some parts for 7/8 rolling stock by designing templates or jigs. Maybe even constructing some rails for it to ride on like they do with CNS (computer controlled ones).
Has anyone tried this and what results?
2. I've been told bigger plunge routers are generally better, but that for small craft projects like we do in large scale, a smaller one, say 1 3/4 HP would work well, especially b/c they weigh less and are more maneuverable and generally, we are doing small projects. Any thoughts?
3. Would it be wise to get a varriable speed controller unit that would allow the fixed-speed router to operate at different speeds. I've heard that lower speeds might be easier on the bits and that at really low speeds you can even cut plastics. Also, the variable speed controller would let you start the unit up slower and then increase speed, saving wear and tear on the motor. Also, the variable speed controller could be used with other power tools like drill press.
4. I've heard you can cut plastic and aluminum, has anyone had success with this?
5. Has anyone made jigs or templates for doing specialized parts, say, in building rolling stock? The only templates online are for stuff for furniture joinery.
well, that's a bunch of questions. Sorry, most of what I found online had to do with making furniture, although one site showed how to make large clock gear for the chain drive types.
Thanks VERY much!
1. I have a fixed router with small table that works nice for trime and stuff, but I understand that a plunge router would also sometimes come in useful. For instance, in building a wood warehouse, the sides could be routed to give the impression of vertical planking. I was thinking of mass-producing some parts for 7/8 rolling stock by designing templates or jigs. Maybe even constructing some rails for it to ride on like they do with CNS (computer controlled ones).
Has anyone tried this and what results?
2. I've been told bigger plunge routers are generally better, but that for small craft projects like we do in large scale, a smaller one, say 1 3/4 HP would work well, especially b/c they weigh less and are more maneuverable and generally, we are doing small projects. Any thoughts?
3. Would it be wise to get a varriable speed controller unit that would allow the fixed-speed router to operate at different speeds. I've heard that lower speeds might be easier on the bits and that at really low speeds you can even cut plastics. Also, the variable speed controller would let you start the unit up slower and then increase speed, saving wear and tear on the motor. Also, the variable speed controller could be used with other power tools like drill press.
4. I've heard you can cut plastic and aluminum, has anyone had success with this?
5. Has anyone made jigs or templates for doing specialized parts, say, in building rolling stock? The only templates online are for stuff for furniture joinery.
well, that's a bunch of questions. Sorry, most of what I found online had to do with making furniture, although one site showed how to make large clock gear for the chain drive types.
Thanks VERY much!