Setting Router Speed

[Anthony Whitesell]

Now that my router table has come along far enough to use it (ie., it isn't finished yet), I have started playing with it. Some of the bits I have are only for use in a router table, and some of those are for use at a reduced speed. So here is my question: How do you set the speed on your router setup and how do you tell how fast the router is spinning?

[Steve Leverich]

For a rough estimate, most routers have a chart in the manual that states what RPM each setting on the dial should be - for more accurate than that, you'd need some sort of strobe tachometer.

There are also speed charts floating around the web for diameter vs. speed - you might try googling "router bit speed chart" for a few... Steve

[Anthony Whitesell]

Thanks Steve. I have everything know. I had the bit speed chart but missed the chart in the manual. I looked through it twice, atleast.

[Michael McCoy]

You can go to a site like Freuds and under technical support, you can access PDF owners manuals for all their routers. These figures came out of the FT3000 (which I have) but you can find something close to whatever you have.

Bit Diameter Max RPM
1" 24,000
1-1/4" 18,000
2-1/4" 16,000
3-1/2" 12,000