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Main => Main Forum => Topic started by: mac622 on March 17, 2005, 02:06:01 pm

Title: Router bit for sheet aluminum
Post by: mac622 on March 17, 2005, 02:06:01 pm

I'm thinking about skinning my CP with 1/16" or less sheet aluminum and was wondering if anyone know of a routing flush cutter bit that could handle this thin aluminum?  I've tried several searches but haven't  been able to locate exactly what I'm looking for.  Any help would be appreciated

Thanks!

Title: Re: Router bit for sheet aluminum
Post by: crashwg on March 17, 2005, 05:04:24 pm

Just buy the cheapest one you can find so when you ruin it, it won't bother you as much...  :P

Title: Re: Router bit for sheet aluminum
Post by: 1UP on March 17, 2005, 05:56:12 pm

Be very careful with this.

Title: Re: Router bit for sheet aluminum
Post by: mac622 on March 17, 2005, 06:05:07 pm

Excellent advice!  Thanks.  I didn't eben think of the metal/foil  covered laminate.  Erin Go Braugh!

Title: Re: Router bit for sheet aluminum
Post by: Shape D. on March 17, 2005, 06:10:09 pm

I would reccomend cutting it down and filing it instead of routing it. that laminate sounds like a good idea though.

Title: Re: Router bit for sheet aluminum
Post by: Tailgunner on March 17, 2005, 06:23:44 pm

Be prepared for some sticker shock when you price the metallic laminates. The stuff isn't cheap.

As to the original question, do you have a variable speed router? If so, how slow will it go? When milling aluminum, you typically use speeds betwen 1000 and 2000 rpm, routers typically spin upwards of 7500 rpm which is a bit much.

Something else to caution you about, finely powdered aluminum is quite explosive, it's commonly used in making pyrotechnics, and it's a primary ingredient in solid rocket fuels. Using a shop vac to collect the dust when routing your panels could be a recipe for disaster.