A wood router is used for cutting patterns, grooves, and designs across pieces of wood. This article explains the types of wood routers and what to consider before purchasing one to ensure you get the best.
There are three main types of wood routers. Let us discuss them:
Fixed base routers
These routers’ bases are fixed as the name suggests. A fixed base router has its depth set. This means that it’s better suited to edgework like skirting boards. A fixed base router offers the best choice when making repeat patterns on your wood.
Pros
- Better suited for accurate repeated patterns
- They are more stable to work with.
Cons
- They are less flexible compared to plunge base routers.
Plunge base routers
Their motor is attached to a prig base. This enables you to fix the bit anywhere in the wood. With the help of two springs attached to the motor, the plunge router’s bit is easily retractable and pluggable in the middle of the wood.
Pros
- You can work on wood from any point
- They are more flexible and can cut grooves with ease.
Cons
- Thanks to their versatility, plunge base routers are more expensive than fixed-base routers
- They are more technical and harder to operate.
Combo base routers
These routers come with interchangeable combination router kits. They have the advantage of being both fixed base and plunge base for your work. They offer the most competitive wood router price in Kenya.
Pros
- Suitable in place of both fixed and plunge base routers
- Saves the cost of buying the other two routers.
Cons
- Not suitable where the task requires frequent switching from plunge to fixed routers.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Wood Router
Power
It’s advisable to purchase a wood router with high horsepower for industrial and production work. This ensures that your wood router is not overworked. When acquiring one for light work though, you don’t have to go for the highest. This will save on unnecessary costs.
Base
Go for a wood router with a clear base, may it be for domestic or industrial use. Why clear? It doesn’t hinder the sight of your working area which ensures precision and overall quality of your work.
Control knob
Make sure to purchase a wood router that has an adjustable control knob. This helps in making fine adjustments that ensure comfort when handling your machine.
Speed
A router with a variable speed dial is recommended. This helps when dealing with different woods and tasks. The dial adjusts the speed to work with.
Switch
Consider a wood router with the simplest switch. Always. Routers with complicated switching procedures may be unsuitable when you need emergency power off.
Plunge depth
A wood router that allows the collection to be plunged through the base is the best choice since it doesn’t conceal the depth cut which ensures precision in your work.
Size
Go for a portable router that is easy to move. A smaller router is always preferable and in most cases, the bigger the router, the higher the power consumption.
Dust extraction
This is the last factor. A detachable dust extractor spout is the best for your machine. Unfortunately, some manufacturers do not include them in their products. Buy a router that has one.
Let’s now look at some ways to maintain your wood router and ensure its efficiency:
- Keep your router in a dry and clean area
- Clear your collect from the spout regularly
- Ensure the router bits are stable before use
- Make sure the router’s bearings are lubricated and free from rust.
Conclusion
Wood routers are suitable for both domestic and industrial uses. Follow the directions in this article to ensure you purchase the most suitable and optimal wood router for your work.
