I run 1/2 bits regually in wood and also use a 50mm surfaceing bit.
RPM will be important with larger bits. As an example I run a 50mm surface bit at 16k rpm with 1mm DOC, around 2000 mm a min at 40mm step over in oak and walnut.
My 1/2" bit has a 50mm flute length, but I mainly use it for adaptive clearing and finishing passes, slotting is much harder on a tool, but it will cut at 10mm DOC, but it’s loud and a bit nerver wrecking. I would say you always want to ramp down at around 5mm per pass and you must use dust collection to clear the pockets/slot out.
By all means use bigger bits, but you will want to check your tool paths and RPMs before giving it the full beans.
I just wanted to say that the strut kit has been great, solved all the dropping issues I had with the 80mm spindle and I haven’t noticed any side effects from having it installed.
Super thank you to you guys for developing it and it being a super simple bolt on.
I must admit—ever since we developed the concept in 2021, we’ve been thinking about how we can roll it out to everyone. There have been some teething issues, but overall, it’s a positive improvement.