Milling tools occupy a fairly dense, but still specific segment of the market construction equipment. For the most part, such devices are presented in the form of models for professional tasks. But recently, the category of home analogs has also expanded, which do not have such impressive technical potential, but have many other advantages. In particular, the Bosch POF 1200 AE milling machine demonstrates that an inexpensive, compact and user-friendly tool can perform complex tasks processing under the control of a non-professional.
Purpose of the milling machine
Availability in household The POF 1200 AE allows you to handle operations that previously could only be performed in specialized workshops in factories. In the presence of basic knowledge materials processing, the user will be able to form edges according to specified parameters, mill grooves, and also cut shaped parts. At the same time, the quality of processing will be high and the work process will be comfortable. In any case, this is how the manufacturer himself positions the machine. Since the vertical Bosch is equipped with control electronics, the master has the ability to adjust the rotation speed of the working element. The accelerator function in the adjustment wheel is designed for this purpose. High ergonomics of the equipment is ensured by the built-in spindle lock. This makes it possible to quickly and easily replace cutters. In general, the machine is designed for a wide range of lightweight building materials, which home craftsmen most often work with. In particular, it can be wood or different kinds plastic.
Machine Specifications
On the market you can also find models with higher performance indicators, but not all of them match the quality of Bosch products. The tool, in turn, has the following characteristics:
- Unit weight - 3.4 kg.
- Rated power - 1,200 W.
- Output power indicator - 650 W.
- The diameter of the cartridge is 6 mm.
- The number of revolutions per minute is a maximum of 28,000.
- The cutter stroke is 5.5 cm.
It is also worth noting the low levels of noise and vibration, which has a positive effect on comfort during work.
Features and Benefits
Among the main advantages is the precision of product formation, which is achieved by the wide customization capabilities of the Bosch unit. The tool is equipped with a scale that allows you to adjust the milling depth. This allows you to choose the optimal processing mode for the material, taking into account its characteristics and requirements for the result. There is also a processing depth limiter, which can be controlled using a special screw. The number of revolutions, adjusted by the corresponding wheel, is also selected according to the hardness and rigidity of the workpiece. The speed is stabilized by a built-in electronic system.
Separately, it is worth noting the proprietary development German company- SDS technology, which allows you to perform work in copy milling mode. In addition, the Bosch POF 1200 AE provides features to ensure convenience and safety during operation. The presence of two handles with a grip protective coating will not allow you to lose control of the machine, and the high-strength transparent casing protects the user from chips.
Equipment
The manufacturer richly equips the device, allowing it to perform a wide range of processing functions even in private households. The equipment includes devices for technical adjustment of mechanisms, and parts for the immediate operational tasks of the Bosch POF 1200 AE machine, the equipment of which contains the following elements:
- Open-end wrench.
- Suction adapter.
- Copier.
- Centering rod.
- Parallel stop.
- 8mm slotted cutter.
- Collet cartridges in the amount of 3 pcs.
The cutters included in the set are represented by rotating bodies with teeth that vary in shape. In particular, grooved, conical, tapered and spherical elements are provided for different tasks. In addition to traditional slot milling, the Bosch POF 1200 AE unit allows you to remove burrs and correct chamfers.
Router maintenance
To begin with, it is worth noting some recommendations that will minimize the risk of breakdowns and improve preventive measures. For example, before setting up equipment and replacing cutters, you must unplug it from the outlet. You should also ensure that the unit is properly stored in a dry place, out of reach of children and inexperienced users. You should regularly check the movement of the working parts and elements with which the Bosch POF 1200 AE router is equipped. The instructions instruct you not to use deformed or damaged cutters. All components and components must be kept in a clean and functional condition. Mandatory maintenance of cleanliness also applies to the ventilation slots of electrical appliances. The protective insulation is adversely affected by the use of tools when working with metal. The accumulation of electrically conductive dust must be prevented during processing. For this purpose, a stationary suction unit is used, which allows ventilation slots to be blown out.
What is the price?
The unit occupies a rather attractive niche on the market. This applies to both cost and technical potential. The tool can be positioned as a mid-range model that combines an optimal set of functions and good performance. In any case, the Bosch POF 1200 AE cannot be classified as a budget solution. The price of the device varies between 5-5.5 thousand rubles. For comparison, the entry level of instruments in this category starts from 3 thousand rubles. Actually, in terms of functionality, the German instrument is not far from the cheapest devices, but in terms of reliability it is significantly superior. It is also worth noting the highest price level. If we consider models from manufacturers like Bosch, then prices can vary from 10 to 15 thousand rubles. However, these are devices with wider options, high performance and additional features. Against the general background, the unit looks good - it is a good-quality inexpensive milling cutter that justifies its cost, but in the work process of an experienced craftsman it is unlikely to surprise with its technical data.
Positive reviews
User opinions about the tool largely correspond to the manufacturer's characteristics. The device is easy to use and fits well in your hands, which allows you to perform processing tasks efficiently different materials. Contribute to successful work and electronic add-ons with adjustment capabilities Bosch POF 1200 AE. Reviews also distinguish the device from the general range due to its high-quality assembly. This will be especially felt by fans of cheap Chinese analogues, which suffer from backlash and strong vibration. The German router wins both due to its operational reliability and its price. Performance advantages also include power. Although the device is designed to work with wood and plastic, metal is no exception. As mentioned above, under certain conditions, such workpieces can be processed.
Negative reviews
Unfortunately, those who expect the signature advantages of premium Bosch equipment from this tool will be disappointed with this purchase. Judging by the basic parameters, the device is fully consistent with its class. At the same time, the manufacturer will not be particularly pleased with either functionality or ergonomics. Users complain about the lack of technological solutions that have long become commonplace. For example, soft start and cutter illumination - these features are not available in the Bosch POF 1200 AE. Reviews also note some offensive shortcomings. In particular, the scale with a depth limiter in some copies does not coincide with real indicators. This is a gross violation, due to which the operator may receive a result in the form of a product with serious deviations from the required values.
The key to high-quality milling of workpieces is the use of working elements that are suitable in size and shape. By the way, violation of this rule can provoke a wedge, which, in turn, will lead to an imbalance of the equipment. Although it has already been noted that the handles are quite grippy, handling on the Bosch POF 1200 AE should be done with only two hands for greater reliability. In general, experts recommend using a vice to fix the workpiece. Especially when it comes to important work for the purpose of obtaining high precision in the formation of edges and grooves. The fixation in hands or a vice can only be loosened when the equipment is completely stopped. The slightest loss of proper control can lead to dire consequences, including injury, not to mention device breakdowns, which are also not uncommon when deviating from the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Conclusion
If you need a router to solve simple problems in everyday life, then the model will be worthy of attention. Relatively high performance, a basic set of functions and price - these are the qualities thanks to which the POF 1200 AE Bosch milling machine has become widespread. But if you raise the bar of requirements, then the solid German origin of the electrical appliance will not save you. This is not the most the best option for a worker who professionally engages in milling. The device is generally good, but only as a universal tool. Its success in the market is supported by low price. If we compare with competitors, then it may well turn out that less famous brand will offer a better quality product. However, in practice this rarely happens, and to improve the quality of the instrument, you will most likely have to add several thousand more.
Let me start with the fact that if you want to choose an inexpensive milling machine home use, in order to gain experience, and go looking for information on the forums, you will encounter a situation when you eventually realize that you just wasted time.
The situation is similar to reviews on photo forums, that is, any model, be it a camera or a router, will be obstructed; All categories of devices will be mixed and the most expensive model will be put at the forefront, regardless of whether a person can save money for this device in his entire life or whether a particular person even needs this model for non-professional use. Fortunately, device manufacturers have more order in their heads and strictly position their products in three main categories: home use, professional use and industrial applications. Accordingly, based on the above, the dimensions, price and design of the device will change. For myself personally, I bought a Bosch POF 1200 AE router as it has no analogues in price, workmanship and capabilities. If we talk about price, the price of the Bosch POF 1200 AE is lower than similar Maktec devices, but the capabilities are higher. This may not sound strange, but the build quality of Makita in our stores is simply shocking, even when compared with its own subsidiary Maktec, whose products do not have damaging cracks and gaps. Probably the reason lies in the Makita assembly in Romania. Milling cutters are even more surprising Russian production, produced in China, which are sold at a similar price or even higher, but do not even come close in any respect. In general, import substitution in terms of price has been completed: the price is higher normal tool, and the quality is lower than Chinese.
The Bosch POF 1200 AE router comes in a nice compact package. I can’t even believe that a full-fledged instrument fits into such a small box.
On back side The box describes the main advantages of the router over tools from other manufacturers.
The sticker on the box has a unique number, which is included in the warranty card. This is probably why the instructions indicate that the router should be stored in its original packaging.
The other sticker indicates the warranty period, which is 2 years.
The warranty card must contain all three numbers: the number from the packaging, the factory serial number and the number on the nameplate.
The parallel stop, although stamped, is made of high quality from a thick sheet of metal. There are no hangnails.
The router comes with instructions in various languages. In addition to safety recommendations, when working with the device and technical description in it you can even find such useful information, as about the carcinogenicity of certain types of wood, which is modestly kept silent by many manufacturers not only of woodworking machines, but also manufacturers of furniture and building materials.
Due to the fact that as a result of wood processing, fine dust is formed, which is dangerous not only for the respiratory system, but is also generally explosive, it is strongly recommended that work be carried out by sucking out dust and chips with a vacuum cleaner. For this purpose, a removable adapter for the vacuum cleaner nozzle is included. By the way, fine dust has a very bad effect on the engine, guides and bearings of the milling device.
The included key for tightening the collet has a standard gap of 19 millimeters.
The copy sleeve is also made of very high quality. The copy sleeve allows you to mill parts according to a pre-made template.
The guide rods of the rip fence are designed not only for attaching the rip fence, but also for installing a compass on them.
The cam stop, after installing it on the rip fence, allows you to mill grooves on curved surfaces.
The centering pin is attached to rip fence and allows you to produce circular grooves or large diameter holes.
The Bosch POF 1200 AE vertical milling machine comes complete with a Bosch milling cutter with a diameter of 8 millimeters and a maximum allowable rotation of 30,000 rpm. When purchasing a cutter for a milling machine, please note that it is prohibited to install cutters with maximum speed less than what a milling machine can develop. It should also be taken into account that the router must be guided along external surfaces counterclockwise, and along internal holes clockwise.
The kit also includes two collets for 6 and 8 millimeters. The collets are made of hardened hexagon.
The assembly of the Bosch POF 1200 AE milling machine is an example of the German traditional culture of excellent tool making, despite the fact that it is made in China.
Unlike the Bosch POF 1400 AE milling machine, the Bosch POF 1200 AE milling machine does not have constant electronics, which allows it to maintain the same speed under load and at idle. There is also no fine adjustment of the cutter plunge, but the craftsmen saw through the cunning step of the Bosch engineers and figured out how to restore the ability to finely adjust the plunge by removing a square piece of plastic in the router body and installing a handle fine tuning milling depth.
The Bosch POF 1200 AE milling cutter consumes 1200 Watts and has a current of 5.7 Amps, so working through Chinese basement extension cords is impossible. WITH right side In the picture you can see the lever for fixing the milling depth; above it, in the body, there is a plastic square that does not allow fine-tuning the immersion of the cutter.
To quickly change the cutter, the router has a spindle lock button - you won’t have to fiddle with two keys small space, just press the spindle lock button and use a wrench to release the union nut.
To install the suction adapter for the vacuum cleaner, there are two knurled screws.
A plastic, transparent protective screen from chips will protect not only from chips, but also soften the blow if the cutter flies apart, if it is of poor quality or if the milling machine is used ineptly.
Unlike other milling machines presented on the Russian market, and despite the fact that this milling machine is intended for home use, it has virtually no play on the guide posts or it is invisible. There is also no grinding or squeaking when moving the router body along the guides, like with Russian routers made in basements in China. Another advantage is that the guides are protected from dirt by cuffs.
For quick installation The copy sleeve has a release lever for the copy sleeve.
Despite the fact that the cutter immersion depth limiter has a stroke of 1 millimeter, the 1200 model, unlike the 1400, does not have fine adjustment.
For similar operations or for gradual removal of material from the workpiece, there is a stepped stop with adjusting screws. It also serves to adjust the milling depth when the cutter is inserted vertically into the material.
For safety, the switch has a lock.
The Bosch POF 1200 AE milling cutter has electronic speed control, which allows you to change the speed from 11,000 to 28,000 rpm. The installation wheel has fixations from 1 to 6. A model of a similar class, Maktec, is not only more expensive, but also does not have constant electronics and a speed controller, but does not even have a soft start for the machine.
On the left side of the picture you can see that the router has a plug instead of a fine-tuning control knob. As all this has already been noted, if you have hands that grow where they need to be, it is treated. Please note that with any modification of the tool, you not only void the warranty, but also expose yourself and others to danger.
The sliding plate on the base plate has a perfectly flat surface.
The length of the cutter that is in the collet must be at least 2 centimeters, otherwise the collet may bend and the cutter may break. As a result, we have an excellent device at a reasonable price. I would like to note once again that this tool, despite the fact that it is intended for home use, is serious and it is necessary to strictly follow all safety measures that are described in
Hello everybody. I would like to bring to your attention simplest option backlight working area For hand router Bosch POF 1200 AE. Its main advantage is simplicity and the fact that the possibility of warranty repair of this instrument (no structural damage required).
To begin with, not a big note on the router itself.
The Bosch POF 1200 AE milling cutter belongs to the class of personal (household) tools (green series of Bosch tools). For home use it is quite enough, even with a reserve. But unlike the professional (blue) series of Bosch tools, it uses cheaper, that is, lower-quality materials (accordingly, the price is several times lower). But there are unnecessary gadgets, such as a rotor lock button. This “convenience” can become big problem further. Namely, in the case of souring of the thread or a little more force when tightening the clamping nut of the collet, the rotor rotates, as a result of which it will be practically impossible to fix the rotor and remove the cutter. You will either have to cut off the valve cover or almost completely disassemble the tool.
Note the damage to the valve. Since it is made of a rather soft metal.
There is no point in converting the valve to a higher quality metal, otherwise the rotor will deteriorate.
For this reason (on the advice of specialists from the service center), I recommend removing the cover with the latch immediately after purchasing the tool. You have to remove it very carefully because... the screws can (most often) be coated with locking agent threaded connections.
The screws are also made of rather soft metal; when unscrewing, you will most likely damage the caps. Just then buy 4 screws with M4 thread, for the RN2 bit, 18-20mm long because installation of this structure in place may be required if warranty repairs are necessary!
Now replacing the cutter will be carried out like most professional tool, that is, using two keys (see photo).
This will require a second wrench by 11mm, which will have to be bored to 11.3-11.5mm or a small adjustable wrench.
The board is made of single-sided fiberglass, the insulating gasket is cut out of a DVD box or other suitable plastic exactly along the contour of the printed circuit board.
LEDs 4 pcs. (5mm white light, bright) are installed on the board at a distance of 4-5mm, to allow correction of the direction of the light flux. They will have to be slightly bent towards the rotor. Resistors 4 pcs. 0.25W 100Ohm was used (based on a 5V power supply). The connection of LEDs in conjunction with resistors is parallel. Resistors can always be recalculated, depending on the power supply available at hand.
When installed on a router between printed circuit board and an insulating gasket, washers with a 4mm hole are installed from insulating material thickness 1-1.5mm.
The board is secured with two M4 screws with a head for manual tightening (for convenience).
PCB dimensions.
(4mm holes)
Drawing of PCB tracks.
(Marked in Sprint-Layout 5)
The wire from the power supply is attached to the board using a thick thread, then coated with glue. The length of the wire should preferably match the length of the router wire.
The wire is fixed to the handle of the router using Velcro tape (for convenience).
Complete product set.
- Model POF 1200 AE
- vendor code 060326A100
- Power, W 1200
- Weight, kg 3.4
- Speed max, Rpm 28000
- Collet size max, mm 8
- Speed, rpm 11000-28000
- Smooth start No
- Equipment: 1) Centering rod
- 2) Copy sleeve (Ø 17 mm)
- 3) Groove cutter (Ø 8 mm)
- 4) Three collets
- 5) open-end wrench
- 6) Rip fence
- 7) Suction adapter
Description
Specifications:Rated power consumption 1,200 W
Output power 650 W
Chuck (included) 6 mm
8 mm
1/4"
Speed idle move 11.000 – 28.000 min-1
Max. milling basket stroke 55 mm
Weight 3.4 kg
Description:
Bosch POF 1200 AE is a high-performance and precise vertical milling machine. Powerful engine and high speed 11,000 – 28,000 min-1 allow this tool to demonstrate excellent performance even when processing hard wood. Special electronics allows you to select optimal speed using the adjustment wheel. A switch with a fixed mode of continuous operation is built into the handle for convenient use. For simple and safe change of cutters, a spindle lock is provided. The SDS system allows you to quickly install the guide sleeve without using additional tools. The transparent casing protects against flying chips and does not interfere with control of the work process. The high-quality coated base plate ensures excellent gliding without damaging the material surface. The Bosch vertical milling machine is easy to operate with soft, comfortable handles.
Contents of delivery:
Centering rod (2 609 200 310)
Copy sleeve (2 609 200 138)
Groove cutter (Ø 8 mm) (2 608 628 381)
Collet chucks (3 pcs.)
Open-end wrench (1 609 203 V40)
Rip fence (1 609 203 M85)
Suction adapter (2 600 499 077)
Performing precise milling operations is impossible without the use of special equipment. Creating grooves, shaped edge stitching and forming blind holes at home and in small workshops are done using hand power tools. Depending on the power, the operator of such a plant can process wood and plastic workpieces or hard grades of metal alloys. Vertical apparatus Bosch pof 1200 AE is positioned as a universal tool. Its power is sufficient even for professional use, and its ergonomics meet the requirements for models for domestic use.
General information about the model
The machine is a mid-range milling unit that is suitable for a wide range of machining operations. First of all, the design is designed to work with wood, including hardwood. In creating the milling cutter, German engineers implemented several proprietary technologies, including - electronic systems positioning, regulators and the ability to use a copying machine.
The basic model already has a wide range of accessories, including a centering rod, collet chucks, open-end wrench, suction adapter, etc. The design itself was focused on minimal effort on the part of the operator, which ensures high ergonomics of the Bosch pof 1200 AE router. The price of the device is 5-6 thousand. Taking into account the power of 1200 W, the amount is more than attractive. You can also find milling cutter models on the market for 3-4 thousand with similar power potential, but they are unlikely to be able to provide the same level of functionality and reliability as Bosch.
Router characteristics
Typically, the technical and operational indicators of processing machines are determined by their power potential. It cannot be said that the Bosch pof 1200 AE router is a record holder in its segment in terms of workpiece processing capabilities different sizes, but him specifications, which are presented below, are quite suitable for performing most typical operations:
- Unit power - 1200 W.
- Working stroke - 55 mm.
- Engine operating frequency is range from 11,000 to 28,000 rpm.
- The standard size of the collet is 6-8 mm.
- The cutter diameter is maximum 8 mm.
- Tool weight - 3.4 kg.
With high power, the installation was deprived of some functional additions. For example, the creators excluded options such as soft start and the ability to maintain high speeds under constant load. This functionality, by the way, is present in most models of other Bosch power tools. But the ability to adjust the speed for specific tasks and the dust removal system remain.
Features of the Bosch pof 1200 AE model
The absence of the above-mentioned functional systems can be explained by the fact that the design of this milling cutter has received many other additions, oriented specifically for the tasks of delicate and precise processing. For example, you can highlight the Bosch-SDS mechanism. This is the same copying installation, thanks to which the user can use the same parameters when working with several workpieces within one session. Special attention The designers paid attention to the means of centering and positioning. For this purpose, in particular, a system of guide columns with rubber inserts for protection was implemented. In addition, the Bosch pof 1200 AE router is equipped with a whole range of security systems. Here we can note overload protection, spindle locking, speed stabilization and a transparent casing that protects the user from chips.
Additional accessories and consumables
A necessary component for any device of this type is a cutter. It's directly cutting element, which forms grooves and holes. Carbide cutters with a diameter of 6-8 mm are suitable for this model. It is important to consider their purpose. For edges and grooves, models are available with different design parameters. Also, the reliability of machining operations depends on the collet. This is the component through which the cutter is attached to the tool.
Manufacturer in last years practices the use of quick-release chucks. Such mechanisms are widely used in construction electrical equipment, including milling equipment. Bosch pof 1200 AE, in turn, has an autonomous collet locking mechanism. This has its advantages, but in any case the operator will have to perform more manipulations to change the work element. Therefore, it is better to provide several collet adapters in advance, which will ensure safety during the work process.
Instructions for installing the cutter
The integration of the milling cutting element is carried out in several stages. First of all, you need to turn the chip guard and unlock the spindle. To insert a ready-to-use router into the collet, you need to loosen the fastening nut with a suitable wrench. This will allow the cutting element to be inserted to a sufficient depth. According to the instructions for Bosch pof 1200 AE, the minimum immersion of the shank into the collet niche should be 20 mm. Next, the fastening nut is tightened with the same wrench in the reverse position, and the chip protection returns to its place.
User manual
Before starting to process the material, it is necessary to set the optimal number of revolutions. The setting regulator allows operation in six modes. Accordingly, the harder the workpiece, the higher the rotation speed should be. Direct milling is carried out in the direction opposite to the rotation of the cutter. The opposite direction is dangerous because the tool can jump out of the operator’s hands. The milling cutter plunges smoothly and without jerking. At the same time, stopping at one position is also undesirable, since there is a risk of displacement of the working element and expansion of the gripping zone - as a result, the workpiece may be damaged. After processing is completed, the Bosch pof 1200 AE vertical milling machine is placed in the upper position and the engine is turned off. If you do not plan to use the device for a long time, then it is better to disassemble it.
Router maintenance
Like other equipment that works with wood materials, this tool must be protected from excessive dusting of chips. Ventilation holes and crevices must be carefully inspected and cleaned after each working session. The same applies to metal, since accumulations of electrically conductive dust can be dangerous to the device’s engine. Actually, to prevent excessive contamination, you should connect a suction vacuum cleaner to the router every time. For this Bosch model pof 1200 AE is equipped with a special pipe. As a preventative measure, it is also recommended to inspect the element base once a month, assessing the quality of fastening of individual parts of the tool, the reliability of the insulation and the condition of the electrical base.
Security measures
Milling action can only be used when working with materials that do not have direct contact with electrical or gas lines. If there is a possibility of hidden routes, this should be checked using a special metal detector. It is also not recommended to use dull or deformed cutters. They can not only perform poor-quality processing, but also lead to the destruction of the fastening system. During the work process, the Bosch pof 1200 AE milling machine must be securely held in your hands. Although the device has a vibration and noise dampening system, under intense loads the vibration level may increase - you should be prepared for this.
Positive reviews
The model is often used in household processing various materials. According to the owners, the unit is optimally suited for the implementation of complex grooves in wood preparations, as well as for some operations with aluminum. Although there are reviews that note a correction locking mechanisms, in which high-strength steels are used. This indicates the high power potential of the tool, which, of course, is a plus. Traditionally, the German instrument is praised for its high ergonomics. A stabilization system, a comfortable grip, and guide equipment - all this increases the comfort of working with the Bosch pof 1200 AE device.
