Copyright @ Sienci Labs Inc. 2019-2020

Routers and Spindles

Last Update: 25 May 2020

Routers and spindles come in all shapes and sizes. When considering the right tool for your machine, there are several things you want to look out for such as

  • Power
  • Speed and speed control
  • Size and weight
  • Runout

For the LongMill, we recommend using the Makita RT0700/RT0701.

Makita RT0700/RT0701


Home Depot (US)       Home Depot (Canada)
Amazon (US)              Amazon (Canada)

The Makita RT0700/RT0701 router is a commonly used palm router boasting a 1-1/4HP motor. It offers a wide speed range (10,000RPM to 30,000RPM), which is electronically controlled for reliably consistent speed. With a metal body, it is extremely durable. Our test units have been used for hundreds of hours without fail, on projects that take over 6 hours. This is our go-to recommended router as it is widely available in both 120V and 220V.

Other possible routers

We supply the LongMill with several different size mounts. These aluminum mounts are offered in a range of diameters:  52mm, 65mm, 71mm, and 80mm.

If you plan on using a router that is not the Makita RT0700/RT0701, you may need to measure the diameter of the router. Here is a list of other routers that can be used, along with the diameter of their mounting points. Please note that these routers have not been tested by us, and we cannot guarantee that they will work:

  • Bosch Colt (71mm)
  • Dewalt DWP611 (71mm)

Three-phase spindles

blank

 

Three phase spindles are commonly used in higher end, semi-professional to professional level machines. They come with several advantages over traditional woodworking routers such as:

  • Quieter operation
  • More power
  • Lower run-out
  • Longer life
  • Ability to integrate speed and direction control directly from the control board

They also come with some downsides:

  • More expensive
  • Can be challenging to set up
  • Larger and heavier (we don’t recommend any spindle over 2.7kg or 6lbs)

The LongMill’s control box has the necessary outputs to interface with most market spindles. This includes:

  • 0-5V PWM signal for speed control
  • 0V or 5V toggle for direction control

Although wiring and programming of the VFDs required for spindle operation tend to vary between manufacturers, this is compatible with most spindle setups. Consult your spindle manufacturer for details on wiring and programming.

What we don’t recommend

Handheld rotary tools like Dremels are highly under-powered for use on the LongMill since they do not have internal hardware that allows them to support the high lateral and axial forces. In addition, these tools are fabricated for hand use, and as such aren’t designed for the minimal runout required to cut precisely.