jimcrockett

I am having a problem template routing a small piece. I am using a Shear Angle Flush Trim Bit from MLCS that I just got, so it's clean and nice and sharp, and am doing this on my router table. I trace the template pattern, cut the poplar stock to approximately 1/16" outside the line, then attach the template with double-stick tape. I route from right-to-left and, as I'm feeding the stock, it begins to chatter, then will catch and try to pull it from my fingers, gouging and tearing the wood - it actually tears pieces out along the grain. This is the second bit that I have attempted this with - I figured that the first was a cheaper bit and had been used a bit so it might be dull. But the new bit made no difference.

It's a little nerve wracking when the stock catches, since the piece is so small and my fingers are close, but not near, the spinning router - that's why I'm using a bottom-bearing trim bit - the template is thus between my fingers and the spinning bit.



Jim

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bobj3

Hi Jim

This would be my guess,, the bearing looks like it riding a bit low on the template and it slipped under/below the template in the corner when it started to go upgrain on the stock...

This is what I would try once you have one end done flip it over and come in from the other end, this take two templates one on the top and one on the bottom.
Also if you are making more than one used wider stock and then rip it on the table saw./band saw to the right size...after the router job...

This will give you more to hang on to...and help keep it flat to the table..

You may need to sacrifice the botton edge of the template to get it to ride a bit higher on the template, set the bearing right on the upper 2/3 of the template or to say just below the top edge.

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jimcrockett

Thanks for your response, bobj3. The bearing was riding well up on the hardboard template. The corner where it looks like it slipped under the template is actually where the wood just flat chipped out - fairly large chunks.

I've done quite a bit of template routing, both on the router table and free-hand and have never had this happen before. But then, this is the smallest piece I have ever tried to template route. I have tried with the grain running the length of the cleat and also with the grain running perpendicular to the length - problems with both. I could just drill out the corners and cut the straights with my jigsaw, but that would be too easy. There has to be a reason why this is happening and now it has become a challenge!

JimC

AxlMyk

I've had that problem and solved it with a dual bearing bit. When you get to the chipped out part, turn it over and use the other bearing. You can hold the part in a clamp to keep your fingers attached to your hand.

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Fourleftpaws

Would I be wrong here - as the grain goes down - going from right to left could cause the chip out, would left to right be better - back routing in this small spot, and also it looks like the wood is burned a little in that spot, making me think you might of stalled just a little in that corner?

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bobj3

Larry

You may have hit the nail on the head, he said

" then will catch and try to pull it from my fingers"

It's always are to say with just one picture,,,but sometimes running the stock backs wards will stop the rip out but it must be done with care. ( very small cuts)

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Bob J.

jjciesla

Jim,
I'm in agreement with the other guys. I also feel doing small parts requires a lot of control as I've parts take off on me. Thus some kind of holding fixture really enhances the control and safety. I picked up one of these holders and it's proven to be worth it's weight in gold.
Jim

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bobj3

Hi Jim

That's a neat jig..

Here's just one more way, I know it's low tech but works great because of the mass of the clamp and keeps it flat to the table top..

WOOD CLAMP
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=92445
http://www.grizzly.com/products/7-1-...m-Action/H2844

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RWS on YouTube

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Machine Cut ▼
http://www.woodworkingonline.com/200...cut-dovetails/

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Bob J.

jjciesla

Hi Bob,
I really like that Grizzly one. And it's inexpensive!! A hellofalot cheaper than fingers.
Jim

Hamlin

Have you tried making "relief" cuts? This will help reduce any "chip-out". It's best to cut in the direction of the cutter. Unless you have a "small parts" holder, do as BJ stated. You can make your own or purchase one from either Rocklers or Woodcraft, or even as simple as the one BJ posted.

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