Cutting load in wood?

[boblon]

Ok, I know if I am going to try to do some motor sizing calculations I need to start with how much load I will need to push.

It's a simple matter to measure the force required to move a table, but what do you guys use for calculating the force to move a router bit through wood?

Now I know that's not a well difined question due to the different kinds of wood, bit size and shape and cutting depth.

But let's assume a 1/4" bit diameter, moving though hard wood (maple/oak/walnut), and lets say a cutting depth of 1/4" (roughing cuts).

I know to add in 40-50% safety margin.

I'm just trying to come up with a good, general ball park figure to start my calculations with. Anybody care to offer up a number?

Oh, and can I assume somewhere between 30 and 50 IPM as a cutting speed for my broad calculations?

Thanks for any help ( I know it's not an easy question to answer).

BobL.

[Madclicker]

I can cut this at 30-50 ipm, but you need to experiment to see what your machine can do. Too many variables in a shop built machine to know how well it can do the job without just actually doing it.

Just try it.

I have to adjust production speeds all the time to accomodate changes. I'm down to cutting at 50 ipm on my X now and it's down right depressing.

[ger21]

Originally Posted by boblon Anybody care to offer up a number?

30lbs, but with your example it would be considerably less. I saw the 30lb figure mentioned a long time ago.

Originally Posted by boblon Oh, and can I assume somewhere between 30 and 50 IPM as a cutting speed for my broad calculations?

I'd shoot for at least 100ipm or more.

[boblon]

Thanks for the input guys.

I had around 40lbs in my head, so I think I'll go with 35

And I was going to look at 100 ips or better rapids.

At least now I have some numbers to play with,

Thanks again,
BobL.

[ger21]

Not rapids, 100-150 ipm cutting speeds

[boblon]

Dang, I didn't really think 100-150 cutting speeds in hardwood was realistic, cool.

Ok, I will plug that into the calculations and see if I can arrange it.

Thanks for the clarification.

BobL.