the new
UNIBASE
by Neil McMillan
Guide bushes and templates using the new UNIBASE universal sub-base .
The use of templates and guide bushes opens up a huge number of possibilities for router users . Cutters with a bearing guide on the end can only be used on the edge of a workpiece . However a guide bush places the guiding method above the cutter , allowing the workpieces to be routed either on the edge or in the centre .
Different diameter guide bushes are needed to suit different applications and router cutters . Here lies the problem . Most router manufacturers do not offer a wide range of guide bushes and each size and method of fitting differs from one manufacturer to another . Often guide bushes for a particular machine can be difficult to source and various jigs require a specific size of guide bush .
The new UNIBASE offers a solution for owners of most makes of router . Made from injection moulding plastic , it is formed with a range of hole positions to allow it to be fitted to all popular makes of router , using the bolts or screws provided . It is also supplied with two line-up pins with shank sizes for both imperial and metric collets and a 16mm line-up bush . These allow the UNIBASE , fitted with the guide , to be aligned concentric to the cutter .
Guide bushes ranging from 10mm to 32mm in 2mm increments and a 40mm bush are offered to give flexibility in the choice of router cutters for specific applications . Please note , the UNIBASE is not required for Trend routers as bushes fit direct into the router base . Additionally , the Trend T9 has an integral method of adjustment built into the base .
Templates
Templates can be made from plywood , MDF or plastic . The material should be hardwearing , stable and easy to machine .
The thickness of template must be sufficient to prevent the template ring from touching the workpiece , but not so thick as to cause a loss of cutting depth . A thickness of 6mm or 1 / 4 inch is ideal . IP
Guide Bushes
A guide bush consists of a projecting ring of a specific diameter , fitted to a mounting flange . Fitted to the base plate of the router , the guide bush ring projects beneath the base by approximately 5mm . The cutter is then free to revolve concentrically within the ring , as the outside edge of the ring follows the template contour . Due to the difference in diameter between the guide bush ring and the cutter , an offset or margin must be allowed for when setting and cutting out the template .
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