Magnetic Fluer de Lis

[benaroh]

I have been cutting different shapes out of 3/4 walnut. I am using a 1/4 upcut bit at 70ipm, 23,000 rpm - cutting the profile in three passes. The cuts are not perfectly smooth- even with a sharp bit. Almost like it is tearing the wood in some places.

Any tips on making the profiles slightly smoother- because I hate sanding!

[Consultingwoodworker]

Slow the feed speed to 40 ipm, switch to a straight bit, and try reversing the cut from climb to conventional or vice versa.

Spiral bits are really only effective at lower RPM's and much higher feeds than a Shark, or any small CNC, is capable of. A straight bit will serve you better at the Shark's speeds.

Ralph

[benaroh]

Thanks! Do you have a recommended source for 1/4inch strait bits?

[Consultingwoodworker]

I typically use Freud bits. They are reasonably priced and of very good quality. I can also get them locally, or through Amazon.

But there are any number of brands I like: Onsrud, Whiteside, or Amana are all high quality.

Ralph