Cutting foam core with card stock face

[williams_architectural]

I need some advice on cutting 1/8", 3/16" & 1/2" foam core board. I would use gator board, however, my daughter is working on an art project using water colors and her professor instructed her to use foam core. I have lots of small to large parts to cut. The smaller parts from the 1/8" board are from 1 1/2" to 3". I was planning to use a 1/8" diameter. I've been tweaking the RPM and IPS but have problems with the edges not being clean and paper fraying. Any suggestions would greatly be appreciated.

[donek]

drag knife. I think I sound like a broken record, but it's the right tool for your job. Max thickness for now is 1/4in though. Call shopbot as they are our dealer or go to donektools.com

[Mayo]

I have not tried this but if you have scrap to test with, try coating both sides of the foamcore with clear acrylic or polyurethane spray. Or you could try clear shellac. Make sure it's totally dry before cutting. I think this would help prevent tearing and fraying.

[williams_architectural]

Well, unfortunately the coating would not allow the water color to work properly on the paper surface.

[williams_architectural]

Thanks for the tips guys. I definitely want a drag knife but I have only this weekend to finish this project.

[feinddj]

Try a compression bit. At least the fuzzies will point away from the top

[ssflyer]

Or simply a downcut, since the major concern is the top - and they're a lot less expensive!

[knight_toolworks]

drag knife. I think I sound like a broken record, but it's the right tool for your job. Max thickness for now is 1/4in though. Call shopbot as they are our dealer or go to donektools.com

nope attempted it just tore the foam but it cut the paper well.

[knight_toolworks]

Or simply a downcut, since the major concern is the top - and they're a lot less expensive!

no I never found a way to cut it cleanly. it is paper and just never cut well. I wonder if a fiberglass bit would do it? as it would more grind the edge over cut it.Really if you sand the edges you can remove the paper fuzz. not sure if I tried a 0-flute on it or not. but this may be the solution http://www.ebay.com/itm/221396883244...84.m1439.l2649

[knight_toolworks]

I have not tried this but if you have scrap to test with, try coating both sides of the foamcore with clear acrylic or polyurethane spray. Or you could try clear shellac. Make sure it's totally dry before cutting. I think this would help prevent tearing and fraying.

but then your working with gaterboard. must need paper to absorb the paint.