Machining Abrasive Composite Materials

Great Tool Option for Composite Materials such as Phenolics and Other Thermoplastics

Machining abrasive composite materials often presents a challenge with standard tooling.  Special cutting geometries and cutting edge material are necessary to perfect the finish on very abrasive, hard-to-machine materials such as HDF, fire-rated MDF,  Thermoplastics, Phenolics, fiberglass-reinforced plastic composites, cement fiber panels and other similar composite panels. Solid carbide bits don’t deliver the performance necessary to machine such materials cost-effectively. GDP|GUHDO has introduced some standard PCD tipped tooling to machine such abrasive composite materials, available from stock.  These router bits feature solid carbide bodies and 2 continuous-tip PCD flutes that are positioned on opposing axial shear angle, with bottom cutting to provide cleanest finish on both flat table routers (nesting applications) as well as pod/rail systems. Typical machining parameters for Thermoplastics are 15,000-18,000 rpm and a feed rate range between 1 – 5 meters / minute.  For other composite panels we recommend a range of 18,000-24,000 rpm and a feed rate of 6-9 meters / minute.  If too much heat is generated while cutting plastics, the rpm should be reduced to maximize tool life and performance.

For more information, please contact us via email or call 800.544.8436