3d carving HDPE

[jsmithconstruct]

I have a project that is calling for 3d carving into 1" HDPE. Any recommendations on bit and feeds and speeds?

[Brady Watson]

Err on the side of going slower than faster, as this material will telegraph every little bump or jarr into the material. This (http://www.harveytool.com/prod/Browse-Specialty-Carbide-Cutting-Tools---End-Mills/End-Mills/Plastic-Cutting-End-Mills_137/Carbide-Plastic-Cutting-End-Mills---2-Flute--Ball_149.aspx_Q_keywords_E_plastic%20ball) is the correct line of tools for the job.

-B

[steve_g]

Jonathan


"this material will telegraph every little bump or jarr"

A number of years ago I had project using this material in a medical devise... I had to plan my tool paths to be "decorative" as no amount of step-over would give me a smooth finish. I do have to say that I was unable to find a ball end "O" flute bit at that time.

SG

[billp]

Ditto to what Brady and Steve have said. It's almost impossible to sand this stuff, so if you don't get the finish you want by routing then you're gonna have a tough time making changes in the final surface.

[twelchPTM]

I actually do alot of work with hdpe but have not done any 3d. If you try to sand it it the color turns milky. I have tried wet sanding with extremly fine paper but have gotten reults to mixed to call it one way or another. If you plan your toolpaths right the unavoidable tool arks can actually have a nice look. besides o-flute bits harvy tools has a line of plastic cutting endmills that work very well. I have read about Flame and heat polishing but haven't had a chance to really try it although good results have been reported.I would be very interested to see how the 3-d turns out in the end and if I can offer any more input or if you want to bounce ideas around feel free to message me