Router Table - made of ash

[Zhi Tian]

I registered on the website a little while ago, but haven't post much. I will post some projects done in the past, hope you like it.

I have dreamed of router table for a while, and finally get it done. The idea is mainly from NewYankee, Wood Smith magazine, and the book "Working with the router" by Bill Hylton.

First is the box:
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x47/zhi_t/RouterTable/DSCN2969.jpg
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x47/zhi_t/RouterTable/DSCN2976.jpg
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x47/zhi_t/RouterTable/DSCN3018.jpg

The table top is made of two 3/4'' MDF with plastic laminate on the surface, and edged with ash hardwood.

http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x47/zhi_t/RouterTable/DSCN3026.jpg
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x47/zhi_t/RouterTable/DSCN3086.jpg

The dust collection is efficent with testing, a few chips left.

http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x47/zhi_t/RouterTable/DSCN3083.jpg
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x47/zhi_t/RouterTable/DSCN3070.jpg

The fence system is from Woodsmith with some changes, I tried with a test cut, it turn out as excellent design.
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x47/zhi_t/RouterTable/DSCN3071.jpg
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x47/zhi_t/RouterTable/DSCN3076.jpg

I borrowed the miter gauge from my craftsman table saw
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x47/zhi_t/RouterTable/DSCN3077.jpg

The electrical system uses 14 gauge wires, with 15-20 amps switch. I dont' know if that's enough for my Freud 3 1/4'' HP router. The test cut is ok, don't know when I ran the panel bits, if that's still enough, any comments are welcome.
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x47/zhi_t/RouterTable/DSCN3078.jpg

Here is the final pics:
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x47/zhi_t/RouterTable/DSCN3091.jpg
http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x47/zhi_t/RouterTable/DSCN3066.jpg

THANK YOU FOR REVIEWING.

[Jeff Nolan]

wow, it almost looks too pretty to use... that's just about the most "finished" router table I have ever seen, which reminds me I need to get around to making some drawer faces for mine, it's been 5 or 6 years since I last reminded myself I needed to do that :)

[Brian Kent]

Zhi, that is excellent. I really like that you have a door over the router and excellent dust flow. You did a stupendous job.

Brian

[Jeff Nolan]

the only thing that would improve the chip collection is to shape the bottom like a trough that feeds the waste to the DC pickup. I have a similar setup on my table and without fail debris will pile up in the forward corners.

[Robert Reece]

Wood movement in the carcass? Are you worried about it?
It's a beautiful table, and I love the fence.

[Marty Gulseth]

I agree with Jeff N - almost too pretty to use. I know that the first time I dinged it, I'd be choking back the tears!

Very nice work!

[Michael Schwartz]

Nice work.

14 gauge wire should be fine for a 15 amp tool. As always if you have any doubts or you think local codes might differ in your area check with a licensed electrician.

[Chip Lindley]

Heavy Duty RT Zhi! Great Fence!

Time will tell if those wide solid wood panels move more than you wish. I am concerned about the back panel which has three bands of opposing grain within it. If this is solidly glued together, I am afraid this may offer some future surprises. It will be a learning experience, at any rate. Best of Luck!

[Michael Drew]

I'd be afraid to use it.... Might scratch it or ding it up and its much too pretty for that abuse.

14 ga is OK for 15 amp curcuit.

[Brian Kincaid]

STOUT!

-Brian