How to Use a Plunge Router: A Step By Step Guide for Beginners

How to Use a Plunge Router

Are you into the woodworking field and need to know the router used for routing purposes? You are at the right place to learn more about different types of routers, including a plunge base and a fixed base.

Amongst the two models, the plunge router is one of the most excellent electric tools commonly used by woodworkers.

Individuals can use the device in creating their trim by adding flute work to crown molding and creating sophisticated designs in the middle of the cupboard door.

Many homeowners can also use the plunge in cutting out a sink space in a countertop or cleaning out a door hinge area. Although the device may seem very difficult to utilize at the beginning, the afterward is easy and efficient.

The plunge router is essential for woodworking because of its high versatility and can be useful in routing any material irrespective of its hardness and type.

The significant benefit of plunge routers is simple to make cuts without distinct stopping and stopping points for mortises and dadoes.

Accordingly, the device can be useful for making adjustable shelf holes in the cabinets and automatically protects expensive bits when not in use.

Notably, if you are a newbie, this article will help you with the techniques on how to use a plunge router in the woodworking operation.

Requirements

Before beginning any woodworking service, your need to have the following tools;

  • Wrench
  • Plunge router
  • Clamps
  • Router bits.
  • Gigs
  • Collet

Tips On How To Use A Plunge Router

Select And Set A Plunge Router

The first thing that you need to do is examining the plunge router and its different parts thoroughly. The examination involves noting its electric motor mounted between the two posts. Accordingly, the engine should rest on top of the spring and attached to a flat base that guides it during the operation.

Set In Plunge Router Bit.

The router bits come in different shapes and sizes. They may be straight cutting but can create curved surfaces, beveled edges, and tongue and groove joinery.

It is necessary to choose the right bit for the plunge router that you will use for the project. Besides, the router bits you require to use on the type of cutting you need.

Once you choose the bit, turn your router upside down and push the spindle release button close to the top of the device router.

Use the wrench provided in loosening the spindle nut, slide the bit through the spindle and tighten it in a clockwise direction. Accordingly, it is essential to tighten the spindle while taking care, not to over tighten.

Clamp Your Wood In A Stable Surface.

Clamp the working material in a stable worktable since the spinning rate of the router bit will be very high. Accordingly, there is a greater tendency for the plunge router to turn the material instead of digging into it.

Therefore, using a router mat with a non-skid surface can help you stay on the safe side. By securing the working material, the router can dig through it without difficulties.

Protect Yourself From Noise.

Plunge router produces huge noise that can harm your ears permanently. Therefore, it is crucial to use safety protection for your ears while working. Besides, you can use glasses for your eye protection against splinters or small chips during the operation.

Set Plunge Router Depth.

Se the device in its side and measure the depth of the groove you need to cut. Press the depth in to release springs holding the bottom plate and push up the plate guide you attain the suitable depth.

Release the lever of the depth guide to lock into place the base plate and set up the device into your precise cutting position. It is necessary to use a ruler to make exact measurements.

Set The Device Into Position.

Set the device flush on the working material by pushing the handle button that plunges the bit into the piece. The activity enhances the comfortable setting of the router in position without marring the material.

You can also use jigs and guides in joining two pieces of wood during the operation to improve the hardworking outcome.

Move Into The Correct Direction

If you are cutting to the outside edge of the material, you need to move the device counter-clockwise and clockwise when plunging inside the border.

Setting the device in the right direction will minimize the chances of adjustments when working, thus increasing performance and the outcome results. It is necessary to use collet extension when making deeper cuts where your bit cannot reach

Start The Plunge Router

Plug the material immediately, you set the device in the appropriate position and grab the router tightly using both hands. Use the slot view to ensure that the bit is at the right spot.

Press the power button to begin spinning the router as you press the handle button for easy plunging the bit into the working material.

Apply the same to pressure until the bit produces the desired depth, release the button then run the router over the working wood to help in making the perfect cutting.

Circle Routing

Create perfect circles by mounting the router to the device arm rotating around a fixed position. The plunger router can then make cuts of the workpiece quickly from a massive blank without using the saw.

Similarly, you can also apply other bits in cutting, edging, or routing the workpiece. However, this requires setting the depth gauge according to the amount or size you are using.

Final Thought

A plunger router is a sophisticated device in the modern woodworking shop. Its functionality requires the following simple techniques for better performance.

Accordingly, use protective gear and avoid wearing loose clothes to ensure safety whenever working with this device. Besides, you need to read the plunge router manual carefully before setting the project up to avoid cutting errors.

Now that you have a better understanding of the use of this device, begin your first project with the plunger router .

We also welcome you to our website to get more information if you are still experiencing any challenge while using the device to avoid making errors and losing more clients.

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