I have developed an interest in building a slot mortiser. Fine Woodworking has run several articles over the years on this process and I would like to combine some of the features to get what I am looking for. Most projects involve using a router to power the end mill. However, in FWW #98 a method using a single ended mandrel, a chuck and a 1725 rpm motor was described. This method is attractive because I would like to avoid the howl of a router. However, I have had some difficulty finding a mandrel of this type. It is easy to find a double-ended mandrel intended for polishing and grinding purposes. These have 1/2″ threads on one end. Would one of these be usable for the mortiser project.
Any advice or information would be appreciated.
Replies
I would like to avoid the howl of a router. Did ya' Say something?
1725 is too slow. Commercial mortisers use 3,600 rpm. you can mount a threaded chuck on a shaft and pillow blocks with a pulley. Astep ulley is best as you can change speeds for dowel drilling. Two flute HSS center drilling end mills are what we use in our slot mortiser. A machine shop can thread the shaft. Glad to see more folks are looking at slot mortisers. The Grizzly G0540 is the best deal.
http://www.woodcentral.com/articles/reviews/articles_729.shtml
Consider using a variable speed router and turning the speed down.
I did this with mine and a router at 10-13K isn't very loud at all. Not as quiet as an induction setup but building it would be much easier.
Just mount am extra fixed base to your jig and leave it there, and you'll have another router to use as needed.
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