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Which Bit for PVC

Posted: Fri Dec 21, 2018 7:23 pm
by Melstefs
Hi,
I've been struggling with cutting PVC. Trying to make golf ball marker the size of casino chips, so about 1.5" in diameter. The problem is that no matter which bit I use, the chips weld to the bottom of the carved paths (0.06 deep). I tried 1/8 up and down flutes, and a 1/16 down, which of course broke off on a clamp when it went back to home. Still paying the newbie price by not paying attention to those things. The PVC I am using is 1/4" thick. Got the DeWalt 611 set at 1 and feed rate at 60 IPM.
Thanks!!!

Re: Which Bit for PVC

Posted: Fri Dec 21, 2018 7:41 pm
by highpockets
Your speed and feed are wrong.

I use a 1 or 2 flute bit, 5,000 RPM and 70IPM. With your router you're stuck with 16,000 RPM so you need to increase the feed rate and use a single flute bit. Also using a way to cool down the material such as blowing air on the cutter. This will also help blow the chips out of the cut and keep them from clogging the cut causing it to heat up. Don't use a down cut bit, you want the chips to be removed from the cut.

Re: Which Bit for PVC

Posted: Fri Dec 21, 2018 7:52 pm
by Melstefs
highpockets wrote:Your speed and feed are wrong.

I use a 1 or 2 flute bit, 5,000 RPM and 70IPM. With your router you're stuck with 16,000 RPM so you need to increase the feed rate and use a single flute bit. Also using a way to cool down the material such as blowing air on the cutter. This will also help blow the chips out of the cut and keep them from clogging the cut causing it to heat up. Don't use a down cut bit, you want the chips to be removed from the cut.
I figured as much regarding the feed speed. I guess I'll try out various feed rates. At 1.5" in diameter I am sure there's a limit. Thank you very much Sir!

Re: Which Bit for PVC

Posted: Fri Dec 21, 2018 8:39 pm
by ger21
Try a 1/4' single flute 'O' flute bit. It'll leave a bigger kerf to get the chips out.

Re: Which Bit for PVC

Posted: Sat Dec 22, 2018 2:18 pm
by Phil
ger21 wrote:Try a 1/4' single flute 'O' flute bit. It'll leave a bigger kerf to get the chips out.
I agree, 'O' flute bits are made for plastic.

Phil