Depth of V carve letters

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apopj
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Depth of V carve letters

Post by apopj »

Hello all,

I am attempting to make some small signs, 3 1/2" diameter. If I use the 60' Vee bit, the letters are too small and the bit chops the letters apart. How do I make the bit cut to a shallower depth? Do I have to go to a small bit, like a 1/8" engraving bit (even though I am not engraving the letters)? How do you get very small letters into the V carve process???? Thanks so much for the help...

Jeff :?:

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Adrian
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Re: Depth of V carve letters

Post by Adrian »

To get a shallower depth you need a less acute angle tool like a 90 degree bit. It won't drop so far between the "rail" vectors and thus lead to a shallower depth.

You could also specify a flat depth but that might not be the look you're going for.

You could also try using the single line fonts and then using the v-bit with a profile cut on the vector.

Lots of options but really small letters are prone to chipping it out on bit like the centre of an A in a lot of different types of wood with a v-carve toolpath. You need a really sharp bit and the correct feed rates.

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TReischl
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Re: Depth of V carve letters

Post by TReischl »

The bit depth is determined by the distance between the vectors.

So, if you want to go shallower use a bit with a wider angle, like 90 degrees.

But you said the letters were being chopped apart? That usually happens when they are too close to each other. About the only thing I can recommend is to move the letters further apart or try really slowing up.

It would help if you told us what font and what size the letters are. And a pic always helps.
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Rcnewcomb
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Re: Depth of V carve letters

Post by Rcnewcomb »

Also, what material are you carving? Sign foam? Cedar? Flat-sawn oak? The material can make a difference as well.
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10 fingers in, 10 fingers out, another good day in the shop

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martin54
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Re: Depth of V carve letters

Post by martin54 »

Just to add to what has already been said with small text you need to slow things down especially on a machine like yours which isn't that ridged. I have a folder I added to the tool database especially for carving text here the v bit settings are very different to the normal settings I use, not just slower speed & feed rate but a shallower DOC as well.
It can also help to use something like a sanding sealer o treat the material surface before you start carving, this can help to prevent chipping of letters & the loss of parts of the letters :lol: :lol:

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