Formica (~1/16 thick) will tolerate a wide kerf cut on the router
table with a solid carbide cutter. Anything thicker or with HSS will
not work for very long.
WOuld band saw if tablesaw unavailable. Routers can cut phenolic/lam
(1/16)but the power required is high and it has to one of the hardest
things on a turning carbide bit.
http://www.patwarner.com (Routers)
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Is it possible to use a router table with the fence set back several
inches from the bit and using the bit, a 3/16 straight cutter to rip
down some phenolic sheet into strips ???

I am going to fabricate a metal table top and mount the router in the
center and just use a piece of heavy sheet metal angle as a fence. I
will mount the fence with bolts as this is a one time use....

I once had a router table years and years ago and didnt use it much
but for playing around. And I dont remember having the fence away from
the bit several inches as I need to have it now.

Anyhow, what I am planning is to mount the router in the center and
will bolt the fence down to the rear of the router and feed in from
the right to left. I hate to ask such a stupid question but the
phenolic I have is limited and I dont want to have to waste any more
than neccesary getting familiar with my setup.

any replies or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.