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Routing with wide base runner

Routing with wide base runner
To create a larger work surface for routing, you need an extension table. This application example describes how you can rout with a wide base runner and make your work easier and safer. It also includes some useful tips on safety when carrying out routing work.

    Description

    Profiling and work in the edge area is often used for interior finishings. Standard base plates for routers do not provide enough work surface. This application example describes the perfect way to extend the support on the router. With just a few accessories, a router can be used to effortlessly carry out work that would otherwise only be possible with a bench-mounted router. A very high quality routing cut can be achieved on the workpiece through precise positioning of the drive shaft and the associated, low-vibration running of the cutters. This means very little effort in terms of manual rework. The optional dust extraction system also keeps your working environment very clean. 

    Tools/accessories

    The following tools and accessories are recommended for use in this illustrated guide:

    Preparation/set-up

    • Based on its size, secure the workpiece to support frames, an MFT multifunction table or the VAC SYS vacuum clamping system.
      Use a mobile dust extractor from the CTM series to collect chips and dust.
      Connect a 36 mm hose to the router and set the flow sensor on the extractor to the diameter used. 

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      Secure the workpiece

    • For safety reasons, check the cutter for damage before fitting it in the router and observe the minimum clamping depth. (See arrow). Pre-select the router speed on the electronic adjusting wheel based on the cutter diameter and the material.

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      Observe the minimum clamping depth

    Procedure

    • The exact position can now be set by turning the fine adjustment:
      The perfect router run-out can be set on the cutter blade in the shortest possible time with a planed strip which is placed above the base plate.

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      Fine adjustment

    • Use the green lever to release the base plate lock and remove the standard base plate.

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      Remove the standard base plate

    • Insert the chip deflector included with the router in the base plate and use the four small lugs to position it.

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      Insert the chip deflector

    • Insert the enlarged support plate and lock it. As you can see on the image, a wide base runner considerably enlarges the support surface when carrying out routing work, and prevents tipping over, especially at the edges.

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      insert the enlarged support plate

    • Tip:
      In the case of a circumferential profile, always begin with a milling groove against the grain to prevent the material at the end of the last edge from splintering.

       

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      Routing against the grain

    1. Our illustrated guides and work results are documented working steps that we have performed in practice. They are individual examples and do not guarantee or promise that users will obtain the same results. The results will depend on the user's experience and skill, as well as the material being used. Illustrated guides do not replace any Festool operating manuals and/or safety instructions. Liability for ensuring that the information, instructions and applications are free from content defects and defects of title, in particular with regard to the absence of defects, correctness, freedom from third party intellectual property rights and copyrights, completeness and fitness for purpose, is excluded. Claims for damages made by the user, regardless of their legal basis, are excluded. These liability exclusions are not applicable if the damage was intentional or caused by gross negligence, or in cases of statutory liability.

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