Features and working of a fixed base router

The fixed based router generally consists of a cylindrical case that houses the motor required to power the tool. A hollow helical channel passes through this cylinder. The collet, a hexagonal contraption, is located at the end of the cylinder and it, firmly grips the tool bit in place. The bit is the component that performs the actual cutting task. The bit can be removed or changed by loosening the collet with a wrench and then tightening it again. The protrusion of the bit through a sole base plate can adjusted. The size and shape of the bit determines the shape of the thickness of the cut that is scooped out from the material. The sole plate is most often circular and is sometimes coupled with a fence connected to the base of the tool, which helps to place the tool flush against the edge of the work piece. To ensure a straight cut, a straightedge can be fixed to the work.

Unlike plunge based routers, in fixed base routers, the cut depth is adjusted prior to turning on the tool. There are two common cutting methods employed for these routers. One way involves placing the sole plate on the work piece with the bit hanging over the edge, pointing into space. After starting the motor, the tool is moved such that the bit cuts the work, starting from the side. In the other method, the sole plate is kept at a slant with the bit hanging over the work piece. When the motor is started, the tool is tilted to allow the bit to come in contact with the work, initiating the cutting action.

The size and shape of router bits varies depending on the task to be performed. Broadly, router bits are grouped into two construction-based categories; high-speed steel bits and carbide tipped bits. These bits can be further divided into three types; edge bits, non-edge bits, and anti-kickback bits. Edge bits have a small wheeled appendage that doubles up as a fence against the work surface, facilitating edge molding. Non-edge bits have a standalone fence attached to the work or the router. Anti-kickback bits help to minimize the chance of a kickback during operation by incorporating a packing below the tip of the bit to prevent the tip from biting too deep into the surface. Bits have shank diameters ranging from half inch, 12 mm, 10 mm, 3/8 inch, 8 mm, quarter inch, and 6 mm. The collet size should be compatible with the bit shank.

Good fixed base routers use around 15 amps, with a no-load speed of around 8,000 to 25,000 revolutions per minute. While the body of the tool is often made of magnesium to combine durability with light weight, the motor housing is mostly composed of an aluminum construction to ensure long life. Most of the moving parts in the router are rendered with ball-bearings to enhance smooth working of the tool and also minimize wear and tear due to friction. Most fixed based routers also have the plunge router facility, with the motor transitioning between the two mechanisms as directed by the operator.

What to look for in a fixed base router

An intrinsic collet lock helps in quick and easy changing of bits. Sometimes, during startup, the more powerful routers generate sudden large torque, which could jerk the user’s wrist and cause the cutting line to go haywire. This can be avoided with the ‘soft start’ feature available in most routers today.

A macro-height lever enables coarse adjustments and facilitates tool-less motor release. A micro-adjustment knob enables the user to control the working depth of the tool for sharper cuts. A built-in work light enhances accuracy by providing the user clear visibility. A soft grip handle provides greater comfort for the user and prevents fatigue during prolonged use.

Some reputed manufacturers of fixed base routers include Bosch, Dewalt, Porter Cable, and Skil.

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