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View Full Version : Need Advice on Cutting Laminate Faced Panels



nat_wheatley
07-16-2009, 12:08 PM
I'm cutting 4'x8' laminate faced panels (vertical grade laminate both faces, 11/16" particle board core) into cabinet parts, and am not pleased with the cuts.

I doing 2 passes: First-climb/18mm deep, Second-conventional/material thickness+. 6 ips, 13K-14K RPM's, 3/8" mortise compression cutter. The finish edge of the cuts on each face, is curled upward, just short of chipping the laminate. It's enough so that I can take a razor and scrape off the raised part. I'm not clear on why the bit isn't shearing the laminate cleanly.

Any help/feedback would be greatly appreciated. I have quite a few parts to cut and need to find a way to do it cleanly. Thanks

coach
07-16-2009, 12:32 PM
Nat, when I get the results like you mention, generally there is a nick in my cutter.
I have switched to an onsrud 60-124 MW (3/8") bit
I cut in 2 passes and get great results. I cut plywood and particle bd. with vertical, standard and cabinet liner.
I cut about 4.5 IPS at 12000 - 12600.
Hope this helps.
David

beacon14
07-16-2009, 02:54 PM
Nat, is that .6 ips correct or is that a typo?

Do you leave an allowance on the first pass?

nat_wheatley
07-16-2009, 03:37 PM
Sorry about that, 6ips, not .6.

I'm nesting through Ecabinets, which doesn't have the option for an allowance.

gabepari
07-16-2009, 03:47 PM
Try a different brand of compression cutter.

nat_wheatley
07-16-2009, 06:15 PM
Thanks for the posts.

I was able to track down an Onsrud 60-124 bit locally, and will give it a try tommorrow. They didn't have the 60-124MW, but I'll order that if this bit performs well. I've typically used a different brand of bit, which I've had good luck with, in everything but this type of material.

I've this issue for a while now, and will be pleased when it's ironed out.

coach
07-16-2009, 06:43 PM
Nat, the MW (maximum wear) far outlasts the 60-124. I definately got my use out of the 60-124 MW that I have. Good Luck.
David