Yet another Router table build.
A CNC ?:
YES, I would LOVE to fit a CNC and VFD – it would make this design SO MUCH easier.
However:
1: I already have a low cost (before the ridiculous price rise) small triton router and 1.4HP is enough for the small work we do.
2: I do not have the funds to purchase a CNC, VFD – that may change.
3: I could not find a 1/2” Collet design to fit a CNC that was dual locking like the newer triton routers.
4: This build will allow me to simply swap in a CNC without changing the router table design.
So, can we please drop any talk of a CNC and VFD, at least for now - thanks.
On to the Build:
I’ve always used a router in plunge mode, but now with the smaller woodworking that my wife and I are doing I’ve decided at long last to build a RT. In an effort to sort out the wheat from the chaff, I built a test table with a low cost insert plate in a conventional manner, I wanted to find out firsthand what I did and didn’t need. I have previously posted a few pictures of that test build, now a few months later and I’ve finally decided on the design.
This system was driven by the following:
1: Safety.
2: Safety.
3: Safety - By making big positive holding jigs for working with small timber – this one was always a priority regardless of router table design.
4: Emphasis on safety, guards and dust extraction, especially when routing without a fence.
5: The need for maximum dust extraction at the Router cutter (not the bottom of the cabinet).
6: A simple way to change the dust extraction configuration for various routing uses.
To achieve this required a redesign of the router mounting itself, a rethink of insert rings (around the router bit) and insert plate design in general, a redesign of fence extraction, below table extraction and making them work together / apart in all routing tasks.
For anyone who may be interested, I have just started the rebuild and I will post pictures as it progresses.
More info on the Dust extraction detection sensor
The Pressure switch.
I have one fitted to my Bandsaw, and now the Router table. These differential pressure switches are used to sense the vacuum in the Bandsaw and Router cabinets, they are adjustable and save me from having a face full of dust if I forget to open a blast gate or have more than one open.
Advantages:
Will not allow the Router to start:
1: Unless dust extraction is running at the router itself.
2: More than one blast gate is open (or even partly open).
3: If the Router Dust enclosure door is open.
4: Insufficient dust extraction for any reason.
Other:
A: No external connections to the Dust extraction system or blast gates are needed.
B: Low cost $21.00 - (AU delivered to my door)
Disadvantages:
Will need a way to control a NVR switch – which usually means using a relay, and like the NVR it requires a licensed electrician to fit and wire up.
Note: A NVR power switch should be fitted to a router table in any case. NVR “No Voltage Release” magnetic switches costs around $32.00 for a 240V 2HP 16A device. You can also buy a NVR switch that has a 240V lead and 240V socket fitted, no electrician is needed as you simply plug in the router, however these cost around $140.
If you wanted to use a vacuum sensor then you could get an electrician to wire up a small case with a 240V lead, 240V socket and a relay that is controlled by a low voltage 12 to 24 VDC supply, this is how mine is controlled, and it allows you to wire up the Vacuum switch and a Door switch yourself if you wish, only needing a small 12/24 DC plug pack to control the 240V relay.
I got the pressure switch here.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Adju...311322611.html
From the manufacture:
Differential pressure switches can sense the pressure difference , vacuum, over pressure, poor flow of the corrosive gas.
Conventional applications include :
+ Monitoring Filters blocked Alarm Device
+ Monitoring air blower running status.
+ Monitoring air of ventilative pipelines
+ Controlling the largest gas flow of variable gas volume
+ Monitoring the gas of combustion furnace.
Product parameters:
Measuring range: 50Pa~500Pa
Max differential pressure: 12000Pa
Degree of protection: IP54
Electrical rating value: <2A / 250VAC
Working temperature15~+60°c
Storage temperature: -40~85°c
Min. actuating pressure: standard: 20Pa
Linearity: range 50~500Pa <±3Pa
Installation direction: vertical(standard installation style)
Weight: 110 grams without bracket
Repeatability: <±0.025mbarIn the ranges 0.5 to 5mbar
$17.00 + $4.00 Registered Air Mail to AU