Router

The router is a versatile portable power tool that can be used free hand or with jigs and attachments. Figure 3-21 shows a router typical of most models. It consists of a motor containing a chuck into which the router bits are attached. The motor slides into the base in a vertical position. By means of the depth adjustment ring, easy regulation of the depth of a cut is possible. Routers vary in size from 1/4 to 2 1/2 horsepower, and the motor speed varies from 18,000 to 27,000 rpm.

One of the most practical accessories for the router is the edge guide. It is used to guide the router in a straight line along the edge of the board. The edge guide is particularly useful for cutting grooves on long pieces of lumber. The two rods on the edge guide slip into the two holes provided on the router base. The edge guide can be adjusted to move in or out along the two rods to obtain the desired lateral depth cut.

There are two classifications of router bits. Built-in, shank-type bits fit into the chuck of the router. Screw-type bits have a threaded hole through the center of the cutting head, which allows the cutting head to be screwed to the shank. Figure 3-22 shows a few of the most common router bits.

Observe the following safety precautions when operating a router:

Before operating a router, be sure the work piece is well secured and free of obstruction.

Make sure the router is disconnected from the power source before making any adjustment or changing bits.

Don't overload the router when cutting the material.

Use both hands to hold the router when cutting material.

Figure 3-22: Router bits.

Portable Power Plane

The portable electric power plane (figure 3-23) is widely used for trimming panels, doors, frames, and so forth. It is a precision tool capable of exact depth of cut up to 3/16 inch on some of the heavier models. However, the maximum safe depth of cut on any model is 3/32 inch in any one pass.

The power plane is essentially a high-speed motor that drives a cutter bar, containing either straight or spiral blades, at high speed.

Operating the power plane is simply a matter of setting the depth of cut and passing the plane over the work. First, make careful measurements of the piece, where it is to fit, and determine how much material has to be removed. Then, the stock being planed should be held in a vise, clamped to the edge of a bench, or otherwise firmly held. Check the smoothness and straightness of all the edges.

If a smoothing cut is desired, make that cut first and then recheck the dimensions. Make as many passes as necessary with the plane to reach the desired dimensions, checking frequently so as not to remove too much material. The greater the depth of the cut, the slower you must feed the tool into the work. Feed pressure should be enough to keep the tool cutting, but not so much as to slow it down excessively. Keep wood chips off the work because they can mar the surface of the stock as the tool passes over them. Keep your hands away from the butterhead or blades when a cut is finished.

The L-shaped base, or fence, of the plane should be pressed snugly against the work when planing, assuring that the edge will be cut square. For bevel cuts, loosen the setscrew on the base, set the base at the desired bevel, and then retighten the setscrew.

Figure 3-23.-Portable electric power plane.

Figure 3-24: Heavyduty 1/2-inch portable drill (view A) and light-duty l/2-inch portable drill (view B).

Observe the following safety precautions when operating a portable power plane:

Make sure that the plane is turned off before plugging it in.

Make sure you disconnect the plug before making any adjustment.

Don't attempt to power plane with one hand-you need two.

Always clamp your work securely in the best position to perform the planing.

When finished planing, make sure you disconnect the power cord.

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