Zero-Clearance Insert for Eclipse

[turtleteasers]

I have just made a zero-clearance insert for my Eclipse, and I like it so much that I thought others might want to do the same.

I bought a short rod of 3/4" UHMW (Ultra High Molecular Weight) plastic. UHMW is a low friction material which can be worked like wood with regular woodworking tools. The 3/4" turned out to be 2cm, so I had to shave it down a little to fit the insert socket in the larger aluminum insert (see photo). Then I sliced off a few disks with a chop saw, and tapped one of them into the socket, and cut an entryway with a #5 blade. The top of the UHMW is just proud of the table, which makes it easy to spin the workpiece when required. I'm going to make some thicker disks for those rare times when I have to cut warped wood.

Ron

[Cashmere Scroller]

That's pretty slick. I have a question though. You said that it stands proud of the surface. Wouldn't that allow pieces to hang up on it when toy are cutting? Just curious.

Ron C.

[turtleteasers]

When I say that it is proud of the surface, it is a matter of a few thou, just enough to ensure that the workpiece contacts the insert (assuming the workpiece isn't too warped). Also I have domed the top of the insert to avoid the hanging up that you mentioned.

Ron

[Cashmere Scroller]

Sweet, Thanks for taking the time to answer. With the doming I'll bet it works very well. I'd like to be able to do something like this to my EX-21. It has no insert and a solid table.

Ron C.

[wood-n-things]

Nice idea, I'm sure several people will benefit from it. I use a business card on my dewalt when needed....I'm not as ingenious as some...