Why are there no V bits listed in the tool database under Shapeoko - soft plastic? I had to create them under User-Shapeoko-Soft Plastic for us with a UHMW project.
Because V tools have wildly different SFM values for their tip (essentially infinite) and at the top edge of a cut — this requires more cautious management of feeds and speeds than I believe we are comfortable supporting.
Probably other folks can explain in greater detail or offer some other alternative.
No, this helps a lot and I can appreciate what you’re saying. I’ve been cheating a bit on speeds and feeds by consulting a couple of AI platforms (ChatGPT, Grok). I’m specific on the material, tool (make/model), and machine (Shapeoko Pro), and 1.2kW spindle. They’ve been pretty good at getting me where I need to be an warning me of issue with materials, including advice when using Oramask, etc.
Thank you Will!
Would a #501 or #502 suit your needs?
I have a #301 and #302 but not the PCB engraver. I hadn’t considered these. Pro’s/Con’s?
The #501 and #502 have rounded tips which ease their usage in metals/plastics where a pointy tip on a #301 or #302 probably won’t survive, but that tool geometry also precludes use for V-carving in Carbide Create, since this specific tool geometry is not supported as such for such.
Valueable information and food for thought. I may try the 500 bits. Thank you so much for your input.
To add more to what Will mentioned, the geometry of the 301/302 are often not good for plastics. The cutting face is not angled in a way that digs into material very well. At the microscopic level, the bits are like little spinning card scrapers. Plastic needs to be sliced with a cutting edge at a more aggressive angle. Using the 301/302 would result in a stringier edge, so they are removed from the plastic tool libraries to avoid the near-inevitable crushing disappointment.
5 Likes
Thank you Winston. Followed you for a long time, it’s great to hear directly from you
This topic was automatically closed 30 days after the last reply. New replies are no longer allowed.