80 - Heirloom Tool Cabinet, страница 8

getting the most from a

Multi-Profile Bit

Imagination and a single bit open up a world of profiles.

has the equivalent of a roundover, two cove profiles, and a half-round profile built into it. Note: For sources and cost, turn to page 51.

All these profiles result in a pretty sizable hunk of metal — it tips the scales at three-quarters of a pound and is just shy of 2Vf in diameter. So there a few things you'll need to keep in mind when using one of these bits.

Getting Ready. For starters, a variable-speed router is a must. It's just not a good idea to run a bit this size any faster than 16,000 RPM. Plus, anything less than a couple horsepower will just make the router work too hard.

But probably the most important thing to do is install this bit in a router that's mounted in a table. It's much safer and you'll be able to make full use of all the different profiles.

Another thing to check is whether the bit fits the opening in both vour router insert and the fence. I h»id to mount my router to

I have to admit it A multi-profile bit sounds like a great deal. With only a single bit, you can make dozens of moldings with different profiles just by varying the setup.

What Makes It Multi. A multi-profile bit is exactly what it sounds like — a router bit with multiple profiles on it. The bit shown below

Half-round

Computer balanced for smooth operation

Roundover

"Miniature" bit can be used for smaller projects

an insert plate that had replaceable O inserts in order to provide a wide enough opening for the bit. And I had to make a taller fence with a larger opening to accommodate the height of the complete profile. Note: Your router also has to have a height adjustment range of at least T to provide access to the entire profile.

Using the Bit. Once you have the bit locked securely in place, you're ready to give it a spin and create a few of the profiles shown on the opposite page. The drawings show how to set the bit height and fence for each profile. And the Shop Tip box will give you a couple ideas on how to get the best results.

By using various parts of the profile along with different fence settings, you can create a wide range of profiles. The box on the opposite page shows how to use a scrap of the profile as a template for designing your own profiles.

A multi-profile bit won't solve all your routing needs. But for complex * profiles with minimum hassle, it's a good bit to have on hand. A

8 ShopNotes No. 80