Feedrates spindle speeds and tooling

[Patrick_H]

We are a fairly large commercial cabinet manufacturer and are just now converting to CNC MultiCam MGNB209. I am having problems figuring the combination of feedrates spindle speeds and tooling to get the desired effect. We primarily cut 3/4" melamine and 2 sided 3/4" laminated panels. Is there any method to the madness for maintaining a smooth cut top and bottom. Any help will be greatly appreciated...Thanks

[ger21]

Buy some of these. http://www.vortextool.com/standard/p...fm?groupID=272.

You should be able to cut around 200-300ipm @14-16K rpm, 1 pass. Provided you're spindle has enough power.

[Patrick_H]

Thanks! Is this using a 1/2" chipbreaker finisher compression spirial bit? I have heard that a rougher compression spirial bit will give you a finish cut at a higher feedrate. Again this is a learning curve for us so I am asking for advise from people that have experience in this field.. Thanks

[ger21]

No, I use the two flute tools I linked. I don't use chipbreaker compression bits. I cut 2 sided panels from 3/4" to 1-1/4" at 250-300ipm. If you need to go faster, then go with 3 flute or 3 flute w/ chipbreaker. If you buy from Vortex, you get a 30% discount when you buy 3, so it's almost like buy 2 get 1 free.

[Patrick_H]

Thanks! I'll look into the viper bit. What about tool life and do they re-sharpen OK?

[ger21]

I've found the compression bits are the longest lasting tools I use. Actual life depends on the material you're cutting.

I send them back to Vortex for sharpening. I'll usually get them resharpened 2-3 times before they get too small.