Cutting Speeds

[gcoding]

What speed are you guys able to run using a 2 flute upcut spiral bit in a 5 HP spindle. Cutting 3/4 mdf all the way through the first pass. Just needing to compare

[pfulghum]

After cutting many a sheet of MDF
I cut depth is limited to 3/8" on MDF at 3IPS at 13K RPM with P.C. does the best for me....

If screwed down good...I use a two flute UPCUT 1/4" spiral.
If using Fein vacuum table, I use DOWNCUT 1/4" spiral.

I tend to do 3 passes with 3/4" MDF.
First pass 1/32 offset from vector at 3/8 depth
Second pass 1/32 offset from vector at .7 depth
Third pass on vector at .75 depth with tabs.

Mirror finish...no sanding.

[elcruisr]

I cut 3/4 inch MDF, particle board and ply in a single pass at 8 to 10 IPS depending on how complex the shape is. If I need a clean top and bottom edge I use a single flute compression tool. Rpm is usually around 17 to 18,000. Been known to run as long as 18 hours on a big contract!

A finish pass is a good idea in some materials like Pat uses if the parts require it.

Eric

[pfulghum]

Eric,
Do you have a spindle or router....
I don't think a PC router could cut @ 8 IPS
How big of cut? 1/4" or 1/2"

[elcruisr]

Pat,
I cut with a 5 hp Colombo spindle with 3/8 tooling most of the time. I only go 1/4 if I have to because of toolpath clearances and 1/2" tooling usually is reserved for cutting hardwoods!

[gcoding]

For those that use a 5HP Colombo using a 1/4 bit in mdf 3/4 single pass what speeds do must of you average. I am talking about a clean good looking cut.

[elcruisr]

I can cut 3/4" MDF in a single pass with a single flute compression spiral that is SHARP at 6" to 7" per sec at 16,000 rpm. I have done it as fast as 10 with 18,000 rpm but I worry about tool breakage. Good clean edge no problem.