Best router to flatten slabs?

[WoodenGoblet]

I now use a DeWalt plunge router to flatten slabs. The main problem is that the dust collection is awful. I use a 2” flat bottom bit typically taking 1/8” deep by 1 1/4” wide passes at a time. Looking for recommendations about best router for the task, either 1400 or 2200? Thanx in advance for your thoughts.

 

[rvieceli]

[member=69657]WoodenGoblet[/member]  while the 2200 is a wonderful router, substituting it for your Dewalt will not make a significant difference in the dust collection. Having the router riding in a carriage above the work piece kills the built in dust collection of the router.

Ron

 

[Gregor]

As the bit usually sticks out quite a bit when flattening slabs, plus one uses a sled...

Attach a brush to the bottom of the sled (closing off the space between the slab and the sled base) with a dedicated high diameter (and airflow) exhaust port - so that the air mainly enters along the bit, drafting away any chips that try to escape upwards?

Choice of router wouldn't be that relevant then, as long as it's powerful enough to drive the bit.

In case you want to just know which Festool router is better: as on the 2200 the hose goes into the top it's a bit easier to handle in that scenario (a boom arm helps) as it's not getting in the way on the side.

 

[ffhend26]

I just recently flattened a slab with the 2200 and have to say it worked fantastic.  As long as the other router has enough power to keep the bit spinning true then they should work the same dust collection wise.  The bigger, heavier and higher hp the better.  The suction does not do much of anything, so I did not even use it.  I was using a sled with a plate attached to the router and a bit extender (Infinity set up) so the dust just shoots out the bottom at the slab.  I agree with the last post stating to put and sweep on the sled, it would stop most of the dust in its place, and you would just have to collect it after the pass.  The best advice is to check your collets every once in a while to make sure it is staying tight and that the cut is flat with each pass.  Best of luck to you!

 

[rst]

I've used a 1400 mounted in a MFS jig and it worked fine.  Wanting to use a larger bit, I switched to a 2200...Smoooth.