Looking for Router bit

[bob_reda]

I am in need of a type of router bit that will cut lite mdf pretty smoothly. I have been using a downcut but was wondering if there is a special bit anyone used for mdf.

Thanks
Bob

[bleeth]

MDF cuts very easily and Ultralite even easier. 1 or 2 flute downcutter is fine. If you don't like the finish on the backside you can change to a compression.

[dlcw]

Bob,

I cut a lot of 1/4" and 1/2" MDF (several hundred sheets a year) for a local sports plaque company. The 1/4" stuff I cut with a two-flute 3/16" downcut spiral with excellent results. The 1/2" stuff I cut with a two-flute 1/4" downcut spiral with excellent results. When I need the back to be as perfectly cut as the front, I use a compression bit like Dave indicates. This does a downspiral on the front face and up spiral on the back face resulting in super clean cuts.

I also cut in two passes. The first pass is a climb cut leaving a 1/32" skin. I then come back and do a conventional cut about 1/32" through the MDF. This gets the cut perfectly on the line where I want it to be compensating for bit flex and machine flex.

[bob_reda]

Thanks Guys

Bob

[FSICM]

what type of upcut bit's do you use for MDF
supplier?
I am finding I am getting alot of squealling is that normal?

[gene]

If your bit is squealing feed it faster .increase your feed rate. also a bit that is getting dull will squeal also in mdf i use a 1/4 2 flute compression at 5 to 6 ips. thats 3/4 mdf

[Zeron]

The Amana Tool 46180 2-flute 1/8 Compression does a good job on 1/4MDF in a single pass.

[keith_beezley]

There are numerous ways to achieve a smooth finish on MDF, or anything else for that matter. The easiest way, and likely the best way is to use a tool (Bit) that is made of super sub-micron high density cemented carbide material in the .4mu to .6mu grain size range. The tungsten particulate is absolute in size and so small that even under high magnification the cutting edge of the bit is as smooth as a babies bottom unlike standard micrograin carbide that is an average grain size of only a .8mu. It is easy to see right away that the .4 is twice as fine a finish as .8 is by default. It is like a hack saw blade with 32 teeth per inch compared to one of only 16 teeth. High density bits are available from numerous tool makers today. The 'Max Wear' line, the 'XP' series, 'mc' series, and the 'E/L' series. Prices vary greatly from source to sourse as will geometry too, to some extent. All are great sources however. Tools cost more than standard micrograin bits, but will lower your annual too expenses by as much as 75% if you don't break too many in the process of making your fine products.

Buy the way, when router bits make noise it is telling you it is not happy and that it's chip load is too small. The noise comes from harmonic vibrations being produced by the bit that is trying to self feed and is being forced into an eccentric orbit path due primarily from too light of a loaded condition. The tool can not cut a consistent chip size under this condition, so it vibrates violently under the uneven load. This is the very reason a tools at times may break way up inside the collet in the thickest part of the shank. Spiral bits have the capacity to operate almost silently where your spindle motor and vacuum are making all of the noise. Take care.. Good luck Soldiers! K.B.