Phenolic plate drilling/cutting

[James Carmichael]

I picked up a couple of Woodhaven phenolic router plates on closeout. These have no holes, either for the bit or mounting screws.

Since I've never worked with this material before, what drill bit will work best for the mounting holes and what will be the best way to cut the bit-hole?

Thanks,

James

[Todd Burch]

James, for the bit hole, you could route the hole after making a wooden jig with a hole saw, or jig saw and sanding with an round drum sander. (oscillating spindle, drill press, etc.)

For drilling my 3/4" phenolic router top, I used a standard drill bit, probably a 118° or 135° drill in my big 115 piece drill index. I did use a punch so the drill would not walk, and I did it freehand. Use a small try square or block of wood to visually reference a perpendicular angle.

[Dean Baumgartner]

James,
When I drilled mine I used ordinary drill bits for the mounting holes then a counter sink for the screw heads.

For the large hole I used one of the expandable drill bits with the plate clamped to the drill press table and the speed real slow.

Dean

[Jim DeLaney]

Treat it like hardwood. It cuts, drills, countersinks, etc. just like wood.