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CNC Routing – Aluminum Composite Material (ACM)

CNC-Routing-ACM-Material

Aluminum composite material is often cut out on a CNC router. The versatility of this material is what makes it so popular. From outdoor signage and constructing walls to channel letter backing, the possibilities are endless. Compared to single-layer aluminum plate, ACM is lighter and more affordable while still offering durability and rigidity. For those looking to learn how to cut this material, follow along.

For this experiment, we set out to create the backing of a box for a sign. This entailed cutting out the shape of the box, v-grooving the sections that needed to be bent to shape, and drilling holes for attaching the face of the sign.

Cutting Through

We cut through 3mm ACM with an X-Edge 1/4″ single o flute upcut bit (XVO2232). This bit does very well on both aluminum and ACM. We found that cutting in climb direction produced the best finish. Our feed rate was 200 inches per minute (IPM) and our spindle speed was 22,000 rotations per minute (RPM). This seemed to do very well, cutting through the entire material in one pass.

XVO2232 (1/4″ Single Flute Up-Spiral)

V-Grooving To Bend

Some important factors for v-grooving ACM to bend are controlling the cut depth and using the correct tool. The v-groove tool should cut through the first layer of aluminum and the center plastic layer. The goal is to get as close the the second layer of aluminum as possible without cutting through any of it. This allows it to bend while still being durable. Using a tool with a flat tip is very important. When you eventually bend the material, it needs space to ben properly. A bit that comes to a full point does not leave enough room for this. That is why we used an X-Edge 2 flute 90 degree bit with a flat tip (XACM90-V). Our feed rate was 150 inches per minute (IPM) and our spindle speed was 14,000 rotations per minute (RPM). This again seemed to do very well, cutting through both layers in one pass.

XACM90-V (Two Flute 90 degree V)

Drilling Holes

If you need to drill multiple holes, I highly recommend using a 2 flute carbide drill bit. These are created for long life and making perfect drill holes on a CNC machine. For this experiment, we needed 1/4″ holes so we used a 1/4″ 2 flute solid carbide drill from X-Edge. Our plunge rate was 100 inches per minute (IPM) and our spindle speed was 4,000 rotations per minute (RPM). This cut through all three layers, smoothly and accurately.

XCD2082-S (Two Flute Solid Carbide Drill)

Quick Details / Recommendations:

  • Material: 3mm aluminum composite material (ACM)
  • Tool # 1 (cut through) single o flute upcut (XVO2232) – BUY HERE
  • Feed Rate: 200 IPM / Spindle Speed: 22,000 RPM / 1 Pass
  • Tool # 2 (to bend) 2 flute 90 degree v-groove w/ flat tip (XACM90-V) – BUY HERE
    • Feed Rate: 150 IPM / Spindle Speed: 14,000 RPM / 1 Pass
  • Tool # 3 (1/4″ holes) 2 flute carbide 1/4″ drill bit (XCD2082-S) – BUY HERE
    • Plunge Rate: 100 IPM / Spindle Speed: 4,000 RPM

When orders are placed, they will be double checked to ensure no errors were made and customer follow up will take place during the same day (unless an order is made after hours). If products are available, which most of them are, they will be shipped out the same day. If they are not available, a lead time will be provided. Feel free to reach out for any assistance with our website or anything else regarding CNC routing and knife cutting.

CNC Tooling Shop, a division of Specialty Machinery Inc.

Email: tooling@cnctoolingshop.com

Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (EST)

Phone: (616) 502-7277


Greg Smolka (Author)

CNC Tooling & Application Manager

Here to help with tooling recommendations (bits, knives, collets, tool holders, maintenance kits, torque stations, etc.) and cutting recommendations (feeds/speeds, tips/tricks, # of passes, etc.).

Contact Infogreg@cnctoolingshop.com

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CNC Routing: Acrylic Polishing

Achieving a clear and glossy finish is essential when an acrylic edge is seen or touched by people. This is why polishing acrylic is such a popular topic within the CNC routing community. One way to achieve a great finish on acrylic is by flame polishing the edges after cutting a part out. However, this means that someone has to run each part through a flame consistent enough to reach the desired goal. The other options are using either a diamond bit that chucks up into a CNC router or a diamond edge polishing machine. These options minimize human error by automating the process.

One of our top suppliers, X-Edge Products, recently released the Acryl-X Series that contains MCD bits and a machine with MCD diamond. It’s important to understand the difference MCD and PCD diamond which I will explain along with the new Acryl-X Series. Let’s get into it!

What is PCD Diamond?

PCD Diamond is a synthetic polycrystalline diamond grit that has been fused together under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in the presence of catalytic metal. The extreme hardness, wear resistance, and thermal conductivity of diamond make it an ideal material for the cutting tools manufacturing.

What is MCD Diamond and why is it better?

MCD Diamond is a natural monocrystalline diamond that is cut in a variety of ways for different diamond tooling applications. It is commonly used in special dressing and turning applications that require very different dimensions and crystal orientation to perform the required task.

Compared to PCD, cutting tools that contain MCD have a tool life that is 3-10 times more than cutting tools with PCD. There is also an improved and noticeable clarity difference on the edge finish with MCD. Even though the cost of MCD tools are higher than PCD tools, the slight increased price is often worth the 3-10 times tool life and improved clarity especially in a situation where the tool will be used long term.


The Acryl-X Series is dedicated to producing the highest acrylic edge quality possible by utilizing natural diamonds (MCD) to polish the acrylic. Offered both as a polishing router bit to use on your CNC router, and as a stand alone polishing machine for faster offline polishing of straight cut parts.

Acryl-X MCD Diamond CNC Bit

Acryl-X Series (MCD Diamond Bits)

  • XPT-1068 (6.5mm Diameter) – SHOP
    • 6mm Shank Diameter | 8mm Cut Length | 65mm Overall Length
  • XPT-101014 (10.5mm Diameter) – SHOP
    • 10mm Shank Diameter | 14.5mm Cut Length | 76mm Overall Length

Reccomendations:

  • Cut Out: Use a single O flute bit to cut the part out
    • Example: 1/4″ Material | Tool XO2012-S (1/4″) | 150 IPM | 21,000 RPM | Climb
  • Cleanup: Step in the material .06″ and cleanup the edge at a lower feed rate
    • Example: 1/4″ Material | Tool XO2012-S (1/4″) | 60 IPM | 21,000 RPM | Climb
  • Polish: Step in the material .004″ and polish the edge at a low feed rate and spindle speed
    • Example: 1/4″ Material | Tool XPT1086 (6.5mm) | 20 IPM | 10,000 RPM | Climb

To achieve the best possible finish, add a precision tool holder (such as a Titan Chuck) while using these tools. The extremely high clamping force allows for longer tool life and better edge quality.

Acryl-X MCD Diamond Polishing Machine

Acryl-X Series (MCD Diamond Machine)

  • XPM-1071 – SHOP
    • 220 Volt (110v option) | 1 Phase | 3/4″ Max Thickness | MCD Head Included

The Acryl-X (XPM-1071) vertical desktop edge polishing machine is for producing high gloss as well as satined edge finishes or even tension-free edges for gluing.

Processing speed can be adjusted to suit any material with a turn of the variable speed input, conveniently located on the front of the machine. The housing is made entirely of heat-dissipating aluminum along with ventilation slots to prevent over heating. The protective hood of the polishing machine is designed to prevent material chips from causing surface smear.

*Note* 110v converter option is available at an additional cost

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7 End Mills Every CNC Operator Should Own

7-CNC-Bits-Every-CNC-Operator-Should-Own

As a CNC operator, you understand the importance of having the right tools at your disposal. The correct end mill can make all the difference in achieving precision and accuracy. End mills come in various shapes and sizes, each with its own unique purpose. In this article, I will highlight seven must-have end mills for every CNC operator to own. From spoil board cutters to V-groove cutters, these tools are essential for any CNC router user looking to take their work to the next level. Let’s dive into it!

Spoil-Board / Table-Mill Cutter

1. Spoil-Board / Table-Mill Cutter

Find these here: Spoil Board Cutters w/ Inserts

The spoil board cutter is an essential end mill for any CNC operator. As the name suggests, it is used to cut into a spoil board or sacrificial material that lies beneath the workpiece. This ensures that there is no damage to the actual workpiece during cutting.

Spoil boards are typically made of low-cost materials like MDF or LDF and can be easily replaced after they become worn out. A dedicated spoil board cutter allows you to clear away debris and create a perfectly flat surface for future jobs. When choosing a spoil board cutter, opt for one with multiple flutes as it will help in better chip evacuation and produce cleaner cuts. Also, consider getting one with a large diameter so that you can cover more area quickly.

In summary, investing in a good quality spoil board cutter will not only save your workpieces from accidental damage but also give you the peace of mind knowing that your CNC router is equipped with all necessary tools to handle any job thrown at it.

Ball Nose Bit

2. Ball Nose Bit

Find these here: Ball Mill Series Bits

When it comes to CNC machining, the ball nose bit is a must-have for any operator. Its unique design features a rounded tip that allows for smooth and precise cutting in both 2D and 3D machining applications.

One of the major advantages of using a ball nose bit is its ability to create complex shapes without leaving sharp edges or corners. This makes it ideal for creating intricate designs on materials such as wood, plastics, and metals. Another benefit of this end mill is its versatility. It can be used for both roughing and finishing operations, making it a valuable tool in any CNC operator’s arsenal. Plus, with various sizes available, from small to large diameters, there’s no limit to what you can create with a ball nose bit.

However, one thing to keep in mind when using this type of end mill is its tendency to wear down faster than other types due to the constant contact between the rounded tip and material being cut. So be sure to have extra bits on hand for longer production runs.

All in all, if you want precision cuts and complex designs without sharp edges or corners in your CNC projects then investing in a quality ball nose bit should be at the top of your list.

Compression Bit

3. Compression Bit

Find these here: Cobra Compression Series Bits

The compression bit is essential tool for every CNC operator cutting wood or laminate products. This end mill works by combining a down-cut and up-cut flute design, allowing it to compress the material being cut. It’s perfect for cutting materials that are prone to chipping or tearing such as plywood and MDF.

The way this bit compresses the material results in cleaner cuts with fewer burrs which can save you time on sanding and finishing work. You’ll also see a significant reduction in material waste since there will be fewer chips created during the milling process.

Compression bits come in various sizes, so make sure you choose one that’s appropriate for your project needs. Smaller bits are ideal for intricate designs while larger ones allow you to cut faster and remove more material at once. Investing in a high-quality compression bit will result in better finished products, less wasted materials, and ultimately save you time and money in the long run.

Single O Flute (Plastics)

4. Single O Flute (Plastics)

Find these here: Omega Series Bits

A CNC operator who works with plastics should have a Single O Flute end mill in their toolkit. Why? Because this type of end mill is specifically designed to work well with plastic materials like acrylic, PVC, and polycarbonate.

The Single O Flute has only one cutting edge which helps reduce the amount of heat generated during milling. This results in less melting or warping of the plastic material being worked on. Another benefit of using a Single O Flute end mill is its ability to produce clean cuts and sharp edges. When working with plastics, precision is key since any errors can be magnified once the finished product is assembled.

Additionally, this type of end mill reduces chip load and clogging that can occur when milling softer materials. It also allows for faster feed rates which translates into increased productivity and efficiency in your CNC operations.

Single O Flute (Aluminum / ACM)

5. Single O Flute (Aluminum / ACM)

Find these here: Viper Series Bits

Single O Flute end mills are versatile tools that can accomplish many cutting tasks on CNC routers. When it comes to aluminum and ACM (aluminum composite material), a Single O Flute is an essential tool for any CNC operator.

Just like the Single O Flute for plastics, the Single O Flute for aluminum only has one flute which allows for better chip evacuation and reduces heat buildup during cutting. This results in cleaner cuts with less burrs or chatter marks.

Single O Flutes designed specifically for aluminum and ACM often come with a special coating that prevents built-up edge (BUE) – a common problem when machining these materials. With this coating, the tool’s lifespan is extended while ensuring consistent performance throughout its use. Another advantage of using the Single O Flute in Aluminum/ACM applications is its ability to create smooth surfaces without leaving any residue behind. Its design makes it ideal for creating intricate designs such as curves, slots, and pockets on these materials.

Having a good quality Single O Flute end mill specifically designed for Aluminum/ACM will not only improve your cutting efficiency but also give you clean finished-edges every time.

V-Groove Cutter

6. V-Groove Cutter

Find these here: V-groove Bits w/ Inserts & V-Groove Carbide Tipped Bits

A V-Groove cutter is a type of end mill that is used for creating precise and clean grooves in materials like wood, plastic, and aluminum. It has a pointed tip with the desired degree angle that creates sharp edges and corners.

One of the main advantages of using a V-Groove cutter is its versatility. It can be used to create intricate designs, bevels, or letters/numbers on various surfaces with ease. This makes it one of the most popular tools among CNC operators who work with signage, design, or engraving. Another benefit of using this tool is its efficiency in cutting materials at high speeds without causing any chipping or splintering on the surface. The sharp edges created by the cutter ensure that every cut made is precise, making it ideal for projects where accuracy is essential.

V-groove cutters also come in different sizes which means they can handle varying depths and angles depending on what you need them to do. This feature ensures that you have more flexibility over your project requirements while still achieving great results. If you are looking for an end mill that can produce accurate cuts while offering versatility across multiple materials then look no further than the v-groove cutter!

Drill Bits

7. Drill Bits

Find these here: Carbide Drill Bits

Drill bits are technically not end mills but they are essential tools for any CNC operator. They are used to create holes in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, composites, and plastic. While end mills can also be used to helix out holes, they may not be the best option for every situation.

One advantage of using drills over end mills is that they are typically faster at creating holes. This can save time when working on larger projects or when drilling many small holes. Another benefit of a drill bit is that it is much more affordable than an end mill, not to mention it takes some of the workload off your more expensive bits.

It’s important to choose the right size drill bit for your project as well. A bit that is too small will create an undersized hole while one that is too large can damage the material or cause excessive vibration. Having a selection of high-quality drill bits in various sizes and styles will help ensure success with any CNC drilling project.


When orders are placed, they will be double checked to ensure no errors were made and customer follow up will take place during the same day (unless an order is made after hours). If products are available, which most of them are, they will be shipped out the same day. If they are not available, a lead time will be provided. Feel free to reach out for any assistance with our website or anything else regarding CNC routing and knife cutting.

CNC Tooling Shop, a division of Specialty Machinery Inc.

Email: tooling@cnctoolingshop.com

Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (EST)

Phone: (616) 502-7277


Greg Smolka (Author)

CNC Tooling & Application Manager

Here to help with tooling recommendations (bits, knives, collets, tool holders, maintenance kits, torque stations, etc.) and cutting recommendations (feeds/speeds, tips/tricks, # of passes, etc.).

Contact Infogreg@cnctoolingshop.com

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The Importance of CNC Routers in Modern Manufacturing

CNC routers have revolutionized the manufacturing and woodworking industries, bringing precision, efficiency, and versatility to various applications. As technology continues to advance, the significance of CNC routers only grows. This article explores the importance of CNC routers and their impact on modern production processes.

What is a CNC Router?

A CNC (Computer Numerical Control) router is a computer-controlled cutting machine that carves materials like wood, metal, plastic, and foam. By using a rotating bit, CNC routers can create intricate designs, shapes, and patterns with high precision. These machines can automate complex tasks, enhancing productivity and consistency.

Key Benefits of CNC Routers

1. Precision and Accuracy

CNC routers offer unmatched precision. The ability to execute complex designs with tight tolerances means that manufacturers can produce high-quality components consistently. This level of accuracy is essential in industries like aerospace, automotive, and cabinetry, where even minor deviations can lead to significant issues.

2. Increased Efficiency

Automating the cutting process with CNC routers significantly increases efficiency. These machines can operate continuously, allowing for rapid production runs and minimizing downtime. As a result, businesses can meet tight deadlines and scale operations without sacrificing quality.

3. Versatility

CNC routers are incredibly versatile. They can handle a wide range of materials and applications, from intricate wood carvings to metal fabrications and prototypes. This adaptability makes CNC routers a valuable asset across various industries, including furniture making, signage, and industrial manufacturing.

4. Reduced Labor Costs

While initial investments in CNC technology can be high, the long-term savings often outweigh the costs. By automating processes, companies can reduce labor costs and mitigate the risks associated with human error. This efficiency leads to lower production costs and increased profit margins.

5. Complex Design Capability

CNC routers enable designers and engineers to create complex shapes and patterns that would be nearly impossible to achieve with traditional methods. This capability opens up new avenues for creativity, allowing businesses to innovate and differentiate their products in the marketplace.

6. Improved Safety

CNC routers enhance workplace safety by minimizing manual handling and exposure to hazardous cutting tools. With automated processes, operators can focus on monitoring and maintaining the machine rather than performing risky manual operations.

Applications of CNC Routers

CNC routers find applications across numerous sectors, including:

  • Woodworking: Creating furniture, cabinetry, and intricate wood designs.
  • Sign Making: Producing detailed signage and promotional displays.
  • Automotive: Fabricating components and prototypes with precision.
  • Aerospace: Manufacturing lightweight and durable parts to stringent specifications.
  • Arts and Crafts: Allowing artisans to produce unique pieces with intricate details.

Conclusion

The importance of CNC routers in modern manufacturing cannot be overstated. With their precision, efficiency, and versatility, these machines have become essential tools in various industries. As technology continues to advance, CNC routers will likely evolve further, leading to even more innovative applications and benefits. Embracing CNC technology is crucial for businesses looking to stay competitive and meet the demands of today’s fast-paced market.

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CNC Routing – Steel Composite Material

CNC Routing Steel Composite Material

At CNC Tooling Shop, we are often asked if it’s possible to cut steel composite materials, such as Duraplate or Maxmetal Element, on our CNC Routers. I’ve heard conflicting statements, so I thought I’d do some testing and share the findings. The goal was to not only cut the material but to also find out how the tools fare and find the optimal feeds and speeds to achieve the best quality. A customer sent us some Duraplate and we were off to the races.

Duraplate composite panels were invented by Wabash National in Lafayette, Indiana (1996) for freight trailers, truck bodies and portable storage containers. It consists of two skins (80,000 psi-yield galvanized steel) that sandwich a high density polyethylene core. Coatings on the steel insure longevity and corrosion protection. It doesn’t absorb moisture and beats out the previous method of using plywood or fiberglass reinforced panels that rip and splinter. Since this creation has come about, other applications include military, building, storage, and industrial products.

With an array of research and testing, we found that the Saber Series four flute coated bit from X-Edge Tools worked the best. The bits were created to cut Steel Composite Material. The coating makes them durable and long lasting. No other CNC bit, that we tested, offered anywhere near as well of a finish.

XS2052 (Saber Series) 1/4″ Diameter

Results explained:

Routing the Duraplate at 114-200 IPM / 14,000 RPM with XS2052 (BUY HERE) worked perfectly once we found out that climb cut was the proper direction. Our plunge rate was 70 IPM and we used an alcohol-based misting fluid called Liquid-X (BUY HERE). It left behind a healthy chip size and a clean cut. We started with a 4’ X 4’ square and cut smaller and smaller squares until we only had 6” by 6” left. The bit we used could have cut much more before finally getting dull, so we can assume that the tool life is acceptable when cutting at proper feeds/speeds.

Duraplate Cutting Chips

We also tried cutting at different feeds and speeds, without luck. Cutting faster resulted in the spoil board burning, decreased cut quality, and a loud screeching sound from the tool hitting the material. I would expect the tool to wear out very fast if used faster than recommended as well as being a fire hazard. Cutting slower than recommended didn’t leave as nice of cut quality and could possibly lead to tools breaking and wearing fast.

Cutting Duraplate Too Fast

Quick Details / Recommendations:

  • Material: 6mm steel composite material (Duraplate)
  • CNC Bit: X-Edge Tools # XS2052 (BUY HERE)
  • Feed Rate: 114-200 IPM
  • Plunge Rate: 70 IPM
  • Spindle Speed: 14,000 RPM
  • Number of Passes: 1
  • Misting: Alcohol-based Misting Fluid (BUY HERE)

Stay tuned for many more articles to come related to CNC routing from CNC Tooling Shop. We will also be sharing videos and updates on our (and Specialty Machinery Inc.’s) social media pages. Stay up-to-date by following us on LinkedInFacebook, or YouTube.

If you need any help with cutting specific materials on your CNC machine, please call me at (616) 502-7277. I manage the tooling department, where we distribute CNC tooling for an array for CNC machinists and companies. We are known for but not limited to working with brands such as X-Edge Tools, LMT Onsrud, Techniks, Whiteside, LMT Belin, Amana, Monster Tool Company, and more. Thanks for stopping by.

Greg Smolka (Author)

CNC Tooling & Application Manager

Here to help with tooling recommendations (bits, knives, collets, tool holders, maintenance kits, torque stations, etc.) and cutting recommendations (feeds/speeds, tips/tricks, # of passes, etc.).

Contact Infogreg@cnctoolingshop.com

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Single O Flute CNC Bits: Differences, Similarities, & Uses

Single O Flute CNC Bits: Differences, Similarities, & Uses

A recent question was asked by one of my customers “These two bits look the same, can I use them interchangeably?”. The customer was referring to a single o flute CNC bit for plastics and a single o flute CNC bit for aluminum and ACM. Even though both of these bits could cut the opposing material they are made for, the answer is “No!”.

Here’s why.

Single O flute CNC bits may look similar but they are created differently to optimally cut a specific material. Four main factors distinguish these apart from one another and are critical to the edge finish and tool life. If you’re looking for optimal edge finish, use the single o flute meant for that specific material.

  1. Helix Angle
  2. Cutting Geometry
  3. Polished Flutes
  4. Cutting Edge Sharpness

Before diving into each one of these, I will note that upcut bits are going to provide the best quality, effective chip evacuation, and remove more heat. A downcut bit is used more often when additional part hold-down is necessary. A downcut bit can cause rewelding of parts which is where a slight groove in the spoilboard can be helpful for chips to fall free.

Single O Flute CNC Bits
(Acrylic/Wood/Assorted Plastics)

1. Helix Angle

The helix angle of a tool is measured by the angle formed between the centerline of the tool and a straight line tangent along the cutting edge. The helix angle on a single o flute for plastics is going to be less than one made for aluminum. A “multi-purpose bit” is going to be somewhere in the middle. Please note that a multi-purpose bit will not cut plastics as well as a bit created to cut plastics nor cut aluminum as well as one created for aluminum. These are common for users operating a collet spindle in which they use one bit in order to save time. If you have tool holders and automatic tool changing, there is no need for an expensive bit that provides poor quality.

2. Cutting Geometry

The research and testing behind CNC tool cutting geometry was very important in deciding how to achieve high quality edge finishes. This is research that continuously improves which is why new tools flood the market every year. The way a CNC bit cuts into a material and then releases the material chip is important. Too large of flutes could tear material instead of cutting it. Too many flutes could cause an increase of heat. There are many geometry factors that require complete optimization for a tool to work properly. When it comes to single o flute CNC bits, this is exactly the case. The geometry of each has been optimized for recommended materials.

Single O Flute CNC Bits (Aluminum/ACM/Wood)

3. Polished Flutes

Polished flutes assist in providing a clean or smooth finish, especially when it comes to a material like Acrylic. The goal, when cutting acrylic, is often to achieve the best and most clear or see-through edge. A polished flute is best suitable to assist in this process because there are fewer tool edges that can cause inconsistencies. On the other hand, a polished flute is not necessary for cutting a material like aluminum. Aluminum is tough enough and doesn’t show tool marks as frequently.

4. Cutting Edge Sharpness

You may think that the goal for tooling would be to sharpen the cutting edge as sharp as it can get. The problem with that is that the edge will then become brittle and/or inconsistent which in turn can cause a shorter tool life and/or poor edge quality. Each single o flute has a sharpness that is best suitable for the material that is recommended.

All in all, single o flute CNC bits made to cut plastic should be used on plastic and the ones meant to cut aluminum/ACM should be used on aluminum/ACM. Again, I personally don’t recommend multi-purpose bits unless someone has a collet spindle, low quality standards, and time constraints. So, do not use single o flute CNC bits interchangeably unless you don’t care about edge quality and tool life. Your product will not look as good as it should and your bits won’t last as long as they could.

Find CNC Single O Flute Plastic Cutting Bits: HERE

Find CNC Single O Flute Aluminum Cutting Bits: HERE


When orders are placed, they will be double checked to ensure no errors were made and customer follow up will take place during the same day (unless an order is made after hours). If products are available, which most of them are, they will be shipped out the same day. If they are not available, a lead time will be provided. Feel free to reach out for any assistance with our website or anything else regarding CNC routing and knife cutting.

CNC Tooling Shop, a division of Specialty Machinery Inc.

Email: tooling@cnctoolingshop.com

Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (EST)

Phone: (616) 502-7277


Greg Smolka

Greg Smolka (Author)

CNC Tooling & Application Manager

Here to help with tooling recommendations (bits, knives, collets, tool holders, maintenance kits, torque stations, etc.) and cutting recommendations (feeds/speeds, tips/tricks, # of passes, etc.).

Contact Infogreg@cnctoolingshop.com

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CNC Routing: PVC Sintra

CNC Routing: PVC Sintra

A customer recently asked me how fast (feed rate) they could push a 1/4″ Amana Single O Flute bit (51404) on 1/8″ PVC Sintra. They were running at 200 IPM and wanted to speed up the process. My recommendation was that they could use a different bit that would quadruple their feed rate. However, they had a stockpile of bits and wanted to use them up first.

Since I had the Amana 1/4″ Single O Flute bit (51404) and 1/8″ PVC Sintra, I did a quick test and found out that they could double their feed rate without losing too much quality. I first started out at 200 IPM / 22,000 RPM / Climb Cut and started ramping up from there.

PVC Sintra 200 IPM / 22,000 RPM / Climb Cut
200-IPM / 22000RPM / Climb Cut

Next up was 300 IPM / 22,000 RPM / Climb Cut.

PVC Sintra 300 IPM / 22,000 RPM / Climb Cut
300 IPM / 22,000 RPM / Climb Cut

You may notice that these pictures look the same and that’s because the quality wasn’t much different. Since this turned out well, I tried 400 IPM / 22,000 RPM / Climb Cut.

PVC Sintra 400 IPM / 22,000 RPM / Climb Cut
400 IPM / 22,000 RPM / Climb Cut

I ended off at 500 IPM / 22,000 RPM / Climb Cut because the material was beginning to move. You can see striations on the edge of the material. It’s possible that with extra hold down this could have cut better. Extra hold down may include a vacuum hold down enhancer, tabs, double sided tape, or something else. If you want to cut any faster than 300-400 IPM, I would recommend using a different bit. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

PVC Sintra 500 IPM / 22,000 RPM / Climb Cut
500 IPM / 22,000 RPM / Climb Cut

All in all, you can definitely cut faster than 200 IPM without losing too much quality in this case. However, the next test would be tool life. Just because a tool can cut faster doesn’t mean it will last as long as it could. Make sure to pay attention to this when trying out new feeds and speeds as I was not able to along with this test.


When orders are placed, they will be double checked to ensure no errors were made and customer follow up will take place during the same day (unless an order is made after hours). If products are available, which most of them are, they will be shipped out the same day. If they are not available, a lead time will be provided. Feel free to reach out for any assistance with our website or anything else regarding CNC routing and knife cutting.

CNC Tooling Shop, a division of Specialty Machinery Inc.

Email: tooling@cnctoolingshop.com

Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (EST)

Phone: (616) 502-7277


Greg Smolka (Author)

CNC Tooling & Application Manager

Here to help with tooling recommendations (bits, knives, collets, tool holders, maintenance kits, torque stations, etc.) and cutting recommendations (feeds/speeds, tips/tricks, # of passes, etc.).

Contact Infogreg@cnctoolingshop.com

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Enhance Your CNC Tool Holding!

Emuge-HSK63

Most of the CNC tool holders that I see out there are the classic HSK and ISO models with spring collets. They are the most affordable and often do a great job. However, there are a couple other options that more and more of my customers are moving towards.

First off, maintenance on whichever tool holders you have is very important. I recently wrote an article on the best maintenance practices. Find that article, HERE. Proper care of what you have is the first way to enhance your holding power. Imagine trying to open a tightly sealed jar with greasy hands. It’s not going to be as easy as if your hands were clean. Give your tools the best chance at doing their job by keeping them clean.

Next up are two options that I would recommend to enhance your tool holding.

Emuge Tool Holders

Emuge tool holders are the next step up from classic tool holders. They include a stronger clamping force via collet and taper assembly and pin-lock system. These provide guaranteed holding power and pull-out protection. They also don’t need any torquing with a classic torque wrench. This alone has been enough to change people over! These tool holders take a collet that has a longer and stronger grip to hold CNC bits. The collet is threaded into the tool holder then tightened with a torqued allen wrench that comes with the tool holder. In my opinion, they are much easier to use and well worth the slight increase in cost.

ShrinkFIT Tool Holders

ShrinkFIT tool holders sit at the top level of tool holder holding power. No collets are needed here. Each holder is tapered to fit a specific size of CNC bit. They require a machine that heats up the tool holder in order for a tool to slide into the opening of the tool holder. The tool holder then cools down, causing the tool holder sleeve to grip to the tool. This leaves very little runout within your cutting process. This price is substantially more to get started due to the machine cost, but levels out over time as no collets are needed and these tool holders last longer than classic models. These are highly recommended when using tools larger that 1/2″.


When orders are placed, they will be double checked to ensure no errors were made and customer follow up will take place during the same day (unless an order is made after hours). If products are available, which most of them are, they will be shipped out the same day. If they are not available, a lead time will be provided. Feel free to reach out for any assistance with our website or anything else regarding CNC routing and knife cutting.

CNC Tooling Shop, a division of Specialty Machinery Inc.

Email: tooling@cnctoolingshop.com

Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (EST)

Phone: (616) 502-7277


Greg Smolka (Author)

CNC Tooling & Application Manager

Here to help with tooling recommendations (bits, knives, collets, tool holders, maintenance kits, torque stations, etc.) and cutting recommendations (feeds/speeds, tips/tricks, # of passes, etc.).

Contact Infogreg@cnctoolingshop.com