Routers

Routers are a must have tool to have in the collection to any DIY enthusiast or industry professional who works with wood or other materials that need to be routed. They are available in a multitude of different types and functions that meet different needs.

Cromwell offer a wide range of routers from well known brands such as Bosch®, DeWalt®, Makita® and more.

What is a router?

A router, or sometimes called a wood router, is a versatile handheld power tool which is used to rout (hollow out) or cut your workpieces into intricate shapes. There are various types of routers ranging from fixed, adjustable, plunge routers, router tables and CNC routers.

Routers are mainly used within the woodworking industry but can also be used on other materials such as plastic and some metals. Fixed base routers allow for more control of the tool as the handles tend to be lower and closer to the workpiece, whereas a plunge router allow you to drill into the workpiece like a drill press before routing into the workpiece.

Router tables are more of a static tool where the router is set in place and the workpiece is brought to the machine. These kinds of routers tend to be used more in industry and are rated for heavier duties. A CNC router is attached to a CNC machine and allows for the precision that a CNC machine provides due to it being computer controlled.

Considerations when choosing routers

There are various considerations needed when choosing a router to ensure tool longevity and efficient work being produced:

• Power Source - Routers come in multiple voltage ratings, from 110V for industrial sites, to 230V/240V ideal for home use. With the increase in battery technology, cordless routers have now become a great alternative to being plugged into the wall.
• Power - The power of the tool determines how quick it will work and whether it will slow down to the load of the work piece. A corded router's power is determined by the wattage (W) and a cordless router is determined by the battery voltage (V)
• Router Speed - Routers can either be single or variable speed. This is determined by RPM (revolutions per minute), and no-load RPM determines how quickly the motor spins without any load on it indicating a higher duty motor. Single speed can allow for a consistent cut or adjustable speeds allows the user to set the speed to suit the workpiece.
• Plunge Depth - This determines the depth that the router cutter will be cutting into the workpiece. [Router cutters] (https://www.cromwell.co.uk/shop/power-tools/router-cutters/c/070308 "Router Cutters") are a consumable that attach to the machine and make the cut into the workpiece.

FAQs

What is router power tool used for?

A router is a handheld power tool which is used for routing (hollowing out) a work piece which is usually wood but can also be plastic or certain metals. Most [router cutters] (https://www.cromwell.co.uk/shop/power-tools/router-cutters/c/070308 "Router Cutters") are made to be used on soft and hard wood, but special consideration needs to be taken if using on metals.

Does a router need a power supply?

If the router is a corded version, the router will need power supplied to it directly. Routers are available in different voltages allowing them to be used in different environments. 110V is ideal for industrial site work, whereas 230V/240V can be used at home. Cordless routers are available due to the advancements in battery technology and can run off high powered batteries.