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Router Table Inserts


Well there is a lot of questions about what the difference is between router table
inserts.  This article will show a couple of the main differences and show you some of
the pros and cons of each.

Types

There are three basic types of router table inserts (also known as router plates)


Solid Acrylic
Solid acrylic inserts are just that, solid.  They have no holes in them and usually come
in 3/8" thickness.  Most commonly made are the clear insert.  These inserts seem to
be somewhat plain.  They are extremely strong since they have no holes to weaken
the plate.  Obviously you will need to drill a hole in one at some time if you want to use
it in a router table.  The best way to do so is to use a drill press and a forstener bit.  
This process is a slow one, so don't be in a hurry.  Try and slow the drill press down to
its slowest speed, which is best for drilling with forsterner bits anyways.  Take your
time drilling the hole out and let the bit and insert cool down frequently.

Pro's
  • You get a hole in the insert the size that you want.  These inserts are
    inexpensive so you can have many different insert sizes for different projects.  If
    you do not need a 4" hole in your insert, these can be a great money saving
    accessory.

Con's
  • The drilling process is a bit slower.
  • You have to decide what size holes you like


Universal Insert

The Universal insert is an insert that is widely used in a lot of different tables for
different manufacturers and different brand tables.  Why would they do this?  Well to
set up a plastic or acrylic mold is an expensive process.  Molds can easily go over
$10000 each.  A lot of brands names will buy the universal insert and adapt it to their
table, this brings down the cost for production.  Sometimes you will notice these inserts
have extra holes in them that are not used.  Again these are accommodating other
designs.
Most times these inserts are manufactured with some snap out rings.  These rings
give you the ability to adjust the insert size to accommodate to larger profile bits.  If
you have the yearning to build some raised panel doors, the bit profiles are larger
than most router bits.  Cutting a 3" or 4" hole in a router insert would be difficult.  The
inserts allow you to use a standard flush trim bit or take out the rings and have the
ability to use the largest profile bit made.  Keep in mind anytime you remove material
out of an insert you pay the price in strength.  Most materials lose strength when you
remove stock.  Still, these inserts are more than adequate in most woodworking shops.

Pros's
  • Relatively inexpensive
  • Versatile

Con's
  • Lose some strength due to insert rings


Aluminum Inserts

If you have to have the strongest insert available, then you might be interested in an
all metal aluminum insert.  These inserts are generally 1/4" thick aluminum and are
milled to exact specifications.  Because the insert is made of metal, it is more resistant
to sagging then an acrylic insert.  Even if you have some large diameters removed to
accommodate snap out rings, these inserts still seem to retain their strength.  Keep in
mind, we recommend storing all router inserts that are mounted to your router Out of
the table, this is only a good thing and keeps any insert from the tendency of sagging
especially if you like larger routers (3 HP or better).

Pro's
  • Strong
  • Very nice anodized finishes.

Con's
  • Expensive, usually starting at $50 and can easily go to $85 depending on the
    brand name.



You can see more inserts here
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permission.
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