Domino router cutters you must know
Domino router cutters, specifically associated with the Festool Domino Joining System, are a unique and innovative tool in the woodworking industry. Comparable to a biscuit joiner, the Domino system creates mortises that accept specially made Domino tenons, creating strong, reliable, and quick joinery.
Here are some key elements and types of Domino router cutters you should know about:
When discussing Domino router cutters, it's essential to know about the two main types of Festool Domino Joiners: the DF 500 and the DF 700.
1. Festool Domino DF 500: This is the smaller of the two joiners, and it's designed for general use. It can cut mortises for Domino tenons from 4mm x 20mm up to 10mm x 50mm. This is ideal for small to medium-sized projects, such as building cabinets, chairs, or small tables.
2. Festool Domino DF 700: This is the larger, more robust version of the Domino joiner. It's primarily used for larger projects, such as doors, gates, or large furniture pieces. The DF 700 can cut mortises for Domino tenons from 8mm x 40mm up to 14mm x 140mm.
Domino router cutters, also known as Domino cutters, are the components of the Domino joiners that actually cut the mortises. They come in several sizes to match the size of the Domino tenons. Here are some of the most commonly used Domino cutters:
1. 4mm Domino Cutter: This is the smallest Domino cutter and is used with the DF 500 joiner. It's ideal for making joints in small, delicate pieces where a larger joint would be too bulky or visible.
2. 5mm, 6mm, 8mm, and 10mm Domino Cutters: These cutters are used with the DF 500 joiner for medium-sized joints. They provide a good balance of strength and size for most general woodworking projects.
3. 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, and 14mm Domino Cutters: These larger cutters are used with the DF 700 joiner. They're ideal for making strong joints in larger woodworking projects.
Each Domino cutter is designed to rotate and oscillate simultaneously, creating precise, clean mortises quickly and efficiently. The cutters also have a threaded end that screws into the Domino joiner, allowing for easy changes between different cutter sizes.
Choosing the Right Domino Cutter
When choosing a Domino cutter, it's essential to consider the size of the joint you want to create and the material you're working with. Larger Domino tenons will create stronger joints, but they also require larger mortises, which may not be suitable for smaller or more delicate pieces.
Also, harder materials may require smaller Domino tenons and cutters, as the larger cutters can create too much force and potentially split the material.
Maintenance and Care
Domino cutters are made from high-quality, durable materials, but they will eventually dull with use. When a cutter starts to dull, it's best to replace it, as sharpening the unique design of a Domino cutter can be difficult and potentially damage the cutter.
Overall, Domino router cutters and the Festool Domino Joining System offer a unique, efficient, and reliable method for creating strong, durable joints in woodworking projects. Whether you're a professional woodworker or a dedicated hobbyist, the Domino system can be a valuable addition to your toolset.
