Nov. 07, 08 - 01:07PM
I am going to be making some plaques using MDF. In the process I will need to pattern route the veneered MDF. My question is this:
1. What type/brand of bit would you recommend for pattern routing with flush trim bit on 3/4" MDF material?
2. Also, can the bits be sharpened?
Thanks
John
Submitted: Johnr.
Nov. 10, 08 - 06:53AM
First, whenever possible, buy router bits with a 1/2-in. shank, assuming your router has both 1/2-in. and 1/4-in. collets.
The carbide on the bit should be slightly longer than the material you're going to flush trim. So, if you're working with 3/4-in. mdf the cut length on the router bit should be 1-in.
The glue in mdf can be very hard on the cutter. Yes, they can be resharpened. Keep in mind that with each sharpening the diameter of the router bit gets slightly smaller, while the bearing remains the same size. If you're going to do a lot of this you may want to consider a bit with insert or replaceable cutters, like the CMT 657.692.11 bit.
The cutters are double edged, and instead of replacing them you'll flip them around. Once they're dull you throw the cutters out and get new ones, so you'll never have down time while bits are being sharpened.
Bits with replaceable cutters will cost more up front, but long term they're a good investment. Most manufacturers will say that, because it's not being welded to the bit, they can use a higher quality carbide on insert cutters, so it'll last longer. Since you're replacing the cutters, not sharpening them, you'll never have an issue with the cutters being of smaller diameter than the bearing.
You can find the bit I referred to on the CMT web site at http://www.cmtusa.com
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