Hello all. I'm new to this as we've recently purchased a 4'x8' ezROUTER CNC machine. We're using BobCAD-CAM software with mach3. The typical foam we'll be cutting will be Depron, EPP, Cellfoam88 and Gediplac in 3mm, 6mm and 9mm thicknesses using 1/16" and 1/8" diameter bits. Does anyone have any recommendations for cutting and spindle speeds for this use? We're cutting profiles for radio control airplanes. Any thoughts on this would be greatly appreciated!

Sorry can't help you on the cutting speed.

Did you buy the EZ just for cutting foam?

I am in the process of getting parts together to build a cnc hot wire foam cutter for RC profiles and wings. Since I have never done this, I'm wondering if there is something I am overlooking in going with the cnc foam cutter.

Cutting foam will be the primary use for it. Most of our patterns will be 2-D. We hope to use it for cutting other stock also.

Never cut foam, but as a guess, I'd start around 15K rpm and maybe 300ipm, and increase feedrate from there.

Hi.
I too can't give you specific speeds and feeds but because foam melts with heat and rotary bits create heat I would set up some test cuts. A short line and a circle might work, start slow and build up your speed and feed rates in steps until the plastic starts to melt then back off. There is a machine called the Phlat Printer that uses a rotary cnc to cut out foam profiles. They have a web site with some good video on it. You could go there to watch and perhaps get some ideas. (google them)
I too want to cut out foamies and will try when my router is up and running this fall. Good luck

:cheers: Ted

I have cut out several foamies using both 6mm Depron and Blue FanFold foam. Here is what worked best for me.

Bit: 1/16" single flute carbide
Router RPM's: 12,000
Machine speed: 150 Inches per Minute

Sam