Router bits?

[jeffmorris]

Can I use any router bits on my CNC machine or must I use specific type of router bits?

[chazmtu]

Hi Jeffmorris,

Most people use endmills and engravers but you could use any bit that fits. Though it could take some experimenting to get them to work right. I've been thinking of using small router attachment bits for a dremel to round edges of signs. What bits were you thinking of using and for what types of cuts(pocket, profile, drill, ect.)?

Chuck

[jeffmorris]

I use a DeWalt trim router in my CNC machine. It accepts router bits with 1/4-inch shafts. I use Bosch Solid Carbide 1/4 X 1 Straight Up Spiral Double Flute 1/4-inch shaft for now. I'm using Cut2D program. I know that some projects call for different router bits so I want to know if I need to buy specific type of router bits such as Solid Carbide bits or carbide-tipped bits or straight flute bits or spiral bits. I'll be making wooden signs for now.

[chazmtu]

Different bits make different cuts. More flutes means a better finish for surface milling but at a shallower cut with slower speed. V bits are nice for lettering and picture engraving. Ball end mills add dimension to 3d cuts from bitmaps or 3d models. I keep a small asoertment of 2 and 4 flute carbide router bits 1/8 in a few v-bits 60 and 90 deg. ad a few 1/8 in ball end mills.

[Matty Zee]

I've just finished my router build and was wonering the same question as jeffmorris. So when you say end mills and ball end mills, do you mean like metal working ones for mills? or can you get wood specific end mills? (different rake angles?)
Also, all the V-bits at my local hardware store have a large flat in the centre, can you get ones that have a sharper point?

Cheers

[ger21]

Originally Posted by Matty Zee or can you get wood specific end mills? (different rake angles?)

Yes, but they tend to be more expensive than endmills for metal.

http://eagleamerica.com/search.asp?s...cd2=1209686405

www.vortextool.com

http://www.amanatool.com/cnc-router-bits.html

www.onsrud.com

[jeffmorris]

I found out from Lee Valley's website that HSS router bits can be used on aluminum. Suppose I wish to make new aluminum parts for my CNC router, what's the maximum thickness of aluminum, maximum depth of cut, and maximum feed rate? Does that mean that HSS router bits are better for hardwood than for softwood?

[ger21]

HSS router bits are not very good for wood, as they dull extremely fast. As for cutting aluminum, it depends on a lot of factors. Machine rigidity, spindle power, ...Trial and error are your best bet.

[jeffmorris]

Who makes the best but cheap router bits?

[ger21]

You get what you pay for. Best and cheap don't go together.

[Gir]

Do you have any suggestions for where a good price/performance ratio is hit for those of us just trying to get started on a small budget? These curves tend to run exponentially...

[ger21]

I buy all my carbide tipped bits from Eagle-america. And spirals from Vortex. Both links in previous post. With Vortex, buy in quantity to get a 30% discount. Quantity required varies from bit to bit. Add to the cart to see the price break.