I’ve done a bunch of research on tooling recommendations for cutting MDF. Of course, it’s hard to find a straight answer, so I thought I would reach out to this group and see what people use. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
Here is what I was looking at purchasing:
46170-K CNC Solid Carbide Spektra™ Extreme Tool Life Coated Compression Spiral 1/4 Dia x 7/8 x 1/4 Inch Shank (Roughing Pass)
46176-K CNC Solid Carbide Spektra™ Extreme Tool Life Coated Compression Spiral 1/8 Dia x 13/16 x 1/4 Inch Shank (Finish Pass)
You won’t get a consensus. Compression bits are nice for edge cutting because if used correctly with the transition between up-cut & down-cut somewhere in the middle of the stock, the material won’t fray as much on both sides. Slotting should be done primarily with the up-cut portion. And pocketing should be done with a rough pass (or passes) then a finish pass that is deeper than the up-cut portion of the bit.
So it really depends on the projects you want to make & how you plan on cutting the MDF.
They’re expensive bits. If you only use the end of the bit, no point spending the extra money.
Thank you! With the high price point, I wanted to get some confirmation before pulling the trigger. I’m cutting out a bunch of gears from 5/8" stock. I’m still new to CNC work, and this will be my first time cutting MDF. Sounds like I’m on the right track.
Do you have a particular brand that you recommend? I’ve only used the Amana bits so far.