slot cutting an edge with router

[ups4bob]

I am trying to join two pieces of 1" thick MDF board together using spline. I'm trying to cut a 3/8" slot on the edge of the MDF with my Festool router.

 

[EcoFurniture]

I would recommend a slot cutter in a router table. But the Domino would of course work too. I wouldn't try and do it on a table saw... although it could work with a 0 clearance insert and dado blade, but it's a bit tricky if you have a bigger piece.
Anyhow, best option were you get the best results would be a router table, or the Domino.

Cheers,
Andreas

 

[clev1066]

If you have the slot cutter bit, I would do it with a hand-held router.

 

[tbellemare]

There are several ways using a Festool router to cut that slot. The following refers to using an OF 1400 but the other routers work similarly. I use the OF 1400 as the example because IMO it is the most versatile. The slot cutter, as mentioned, is one way.

Another way is to clamp it to the edge of the MFT so that the edge you want slotted is facing upward. Clamp a guide rail parallel to the work piece. Using the Guide Rail Stop and a straight bit, run the router down the center of the piece.

Similarly, you could use the Edge Routing Plexiglass Template and a straight bit. It rides along the edge and grips the faces.

You could also set up the router in a horizontal position either mounted or freehand. Jerry Work has a detailed discussion about horizontal mounting. To use the router like a trim router, you will need the Edging Plate, which mounts to the router by means of the Angle Arm. This way you can run the router horizontally along the work piece to cut the slot with a straight bit.

I suspect there are other ways also but those came to mind. This is one of many situations where "the system" can save money - in this case, on a specialized bit.

Tom

 

[counterfix]

with out an edge templet i would use two strips of mdf hot melt or clamp on both sides of your router so it slides between and center on the 3/8 bit don't forget stop blocks set your depth and cut then apply a small amount of de natured alcohol to remove the hot glue blocks.

Lance

 

[johnsonri]

I am trying to join two pieces of 1" thick MDF board together using spline. I'm trying to cut a 3/8" slot on the edge of the MDF with my Festool router.

ups4bob,

Are you doing this with just the router, or with a router and router table?

 

[woodshopdemos]

I question your Poll. The option left out is " 3/8" thick and 3/4" deep slot cutter. ".  There is such a beast and while I wouldnt use it without a router table or different bearings, it is the correct answer to the vote.

 

[ups4bob]

If anyone knows who makes a 3/8" X 3/4"-7/8" deep slot cutter please respond. Thank you

 

[counterfix]

i know of a wing cutter  thats 3/16 and can cut upto 1" or more flip your stock to make  3/8
lance

 

[sw1211]

Not sure on a slot cutter that size, how about a spiral upcut bit?  (multiple passes for the final depth)

 

[gkeas]

If anyone knows who makes a 3/8" X 3/4"-7/8" deep slot cutter please respond. Thank you

I have a woodcraft slot cutting set that you can stack for up to 3/4".  Comes w/ a 1/2" bearing (depth of cut), but will work with smaller bearings.

http://www.woodcraft.com/Product/2020029/18716/Three-Wing-Slotting-Cutter-Set.aspx

you could also clamp (as previously mentioned) to the edge of an MFT (or any bench) and with some support from the table and a parallel edge guide, with a 3/8" spiral upcut bit, make the cut safely,

 

[paul_david_thomas]

I need to make up some wide door lining... I joined up three normal width door linings by using the domino, glue and a few clamps... Worked a treat... The linings in place - you can't see the join and we are hanging 40kg doors off them....

Paul.