Why variable speed router?

[CanSir]

It seems like everyone recommends a variable speed router for CNC. Why is that? With CNC we have pretty good control over feed rates so wouldn't we just leave the router on it's fastest setting anyway?

Cheers!

[ger21]

Because most likely, the cnc router you build won't move fast enough to make up for the high spindle speed. When the spindle speed is too fast, it causes excess heat, which dulls your bits faster, which leads to more heat, and burnt wood before you know it.

Also, different tyoes of router bits, and different materials may require different feed speeds. The variable speed gives you a lot more options.

[Rodm1954]

It gives you more options and a quick way of adjusting speed if it isn't cutting as good as you would like it. Given that you are likely to be cutting plastics, aluminum and wood and using different size bits then being able to tweak the router speed on the run is an advantage.
I find aluminum and plastic the worst as they tend to melt and weld back to the job if you don't get the speed right.

Gerry beat me to it - I have to learn to type faster

[CNCRob]

When I first got into CNC'ing I couldn't figure out why it was bad to have too many rpm's. I thought it was better to make sure you were cutting the materal rather then take the chance of slowing it down. Then I started to understand it all. Now the way I look at it; it is kinda like having a car spin its tires at 50mph. It doesn't mean the car is going 50mph it just means the car is setting there or bearly moving wearing out its tires, and other componites. The same holds true for routers, when you are turning too many rpm's it doesn't always mean it is cutting any better, many times it just means excess wear and tear on the router and bits.

[CanSir]

Thanks guys. I'll keep looking for a variable speed router then!

Does anybody know where in Canada to get the best price on a Hitachi M12VC? $269 at the House of Tools seems really high compared to the $148 the U.S. guys are paying at Lowes. Trying to get something fixed under warranty might be a hassle if I cross border shop though...

[spalm]

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...lance&n=228013
M12VC $139

Steve

[Madclicker]

Originally Posted by CanSir Thanks guys. I'll keep looking for a variable speed router then! Does anybody know where in Canada to get the best price on a Hitachi M12VC? $269 at the House of Tools seems really high compared to the $148 the U.S. guys are paying at Lowes. Trying to get something fixed under warranty might be a hassle if I cross border shop though...

$148? I got mine for $114 at Lowes. Cheapest I could find anywhere...on or off the net.

[sdantonio]

if your not put off by refurbed stuff check out these guys

http://bosch.cpotools.com/routers/fi...617evs-46.html

also read the attachment

Steven

[spalm]

Too many guys named Steve.

Clicker, he is in Canada.

I have that Bosch, bought it as a refurb. I love it.

Steve

[sploo]

Originally Posted by sdantonio ...also read the attachment

Steven,

The mill speed doc is very useful, thanks.

What sort of sfpm would you recommend for wood, or rather, MDF and plywood?

[Madclicker]

Originally Posted by spalm Too many guys named Steve. Clicker, he is in Canada. I have that Bosch, bought it as a refurb. I love it. Steve

He may be in Canada, but here is what he said:

"seems really high compared to the $148 the U.S. guys are paying at Lowes."

[Semisentient]

Check out Boss Tools. They are a Canadian online tool supplier. $195 with free shipping.

http://www.bosstoolsupply.com/index....OD&ProdID=7097