newbie looking for 1st cutter advice

[stirus]

I'm looking to purchase my first bit to do signs with King ColorCore, a 1/4 in thick HDPE with a cap that is approximately .050 inches.

I'm thinking a simple cove bit, but any other suggestions are welcome. I'm wondering what diameter bit to get that will just penetrate the .050 cap yet still result in a cut width that will be readable at some reasonable distance (20 ft).

26954

For example, even though D=1/4 inch and B=1/4, the width at .050 penetration will not be that wide due to the curvature. Should I go with a wider 'D' value bit?

Any advice is greatly appreciated.

[RossMosh]

Any reason you don't want to use a V-bit? 90 or 120 degree bit would probably do the job.

[scottp55]

First of all I've never cut the stuff and hope others will chime in, But:)
I was just wondering if with 1/4" material a bowl and tray bit might be better with single line fonts at 20' ?
http://www.infinitytools.com/Bowl-Tray-Router-Bits/products/1008/
But maybe a bit that TJ likes to use on that material would open up TrueType fonts to you with a suitable flat depth and stepover?
https://www.centuriontools.com/router-bits-toolcase/solid-carbide-wood-router-bits.html?pcn=V-Carve%20Bits&pid=740
Just thinking and listen to people who cut it personally.
Welcome!
scott

[zeykr]

Color Core is often carved with a flat bottom vcarve toolpath for thicker letters. Just set your flat depth a little deeper than the top layer is thick.

There are bits made specifically for carving color core: http://www.centuriontools.com/router-bits-toolcase/solid-carbide-wood-router-bits.html?pcn=V-Carve%20Bits&pid=740

[stirus]

Thanks for the tips. Very helpful!

[stirus]

Color Core is often carved with a flat bottom vcarve toolpath for thicker letters. Just set your flat depth a little deeper than the top layer is thick.

There are bits made specifically for carving color core: http://www.centuriontools.com/router-bits-toolcase/solid-carbide-wood-router-bits.html?pcn=V-Carve%20Bits&pid=740

Thanks Ken. Just ordered one of these bits. I'm going to be cutting signs for a snowmobile trail system. I'll probably be doing one-offs until I optimize my layout. What would you use to cut Color Core on a table saw? And what hold-down method would you use? All we did in the ShopBot learning session I went to was nail to the bed with plastic nails. Not sure if this is best for a one-off piece. Thanks!