router question

[ptpeter]

Hi,

     I was just in my garage using my dads router and slot cutting bit and i noticed that it started to smell like something was burning. I know it wasnt the inside of the router but i am almost positive that it was the particle board i was cutting. I just want to know if this is common? i also noticed the tips of the blades on the slot cutter were black too. Thanks


Peter

[babydickonboard]

it probaly is the glue and wood that you smell burning due to friction.   everytime that i have cut mdf w/ a router, i would smell the burning smell every once in awile.  i would just let it blade cool off for a bit  so i wouldn't destroy it. 

[Bloinkxp]

Hi Ptpeter,

The only time I smell wood burn is if I go to fast.  Slow down and let the router do the work.

Good Luck!
David

[LiquidFire]

Just because it has happened before: If it is one of those 'component' bits or built up from several pieces-be sure the cutter is traveling in the right direction.

The sharp tooth is pushed forward, not dragged backward through the wood.

Obvious, but you will have a smoker if it is backward.

Keep a steady, non stalling feed rate.

MDF and particle can sometimes have metal chips and will dull even the carbides quicker. If you are using high speed steel bits instead of carbide, there is your problem-they won't last 2 feet without dulling.

[RayB]

If the router stays in place too long it burns the wood.