Router Tools for liteply and balsa

[planekrazie]

Hey guys, Not sure if this is the right place to place this post. If not please move it to its proper location. What I need to know, I am wanting to cut ribs for rcplanes in balsa. What rpms and what type of bit should I use?
Thanks Steve

[epineh]

Not too sure, but I am thinking of doing the same once I have a home for my router, (shed).

I would (no pun intended) think as fast as you can spin it and either a spiral upcut or straight bit, maybe 3mm or so... just what I am going to try anyway.

I'm also thinking of making a foam cutter, might as well go the whole hog!!!

Russell

[planekrazie]

LOL I too have a foam cutter. My understanding is that the faster the cutter spins it doesnt spit the chips out. It just burns the wood. What do you guys think?
Steve

[jjones]

Well, I'm just starting into the process of building a CNC router, but I've tried to use a dremel on a base to cut balsa before. It didn't work out so well. I had a real problem with tear out on the top surface.

Since then, I've found a spiral downcut that I think might do the trick.

Jim

[planekrazie]

Sounds good. Thanks for the input. 1St post I see. Welcome to the zone.
Steve

Originally Posted by jjones Well, I'm just starting into the process of building a CNC router, but I've tried to use a dremel on a base to cut balsa before. It didn't work out so well. I had a real problem with tear out on the top surface. Since then, I've found a spiral downcut that I think might do the trick. Jim