What is the best tool for thicker plastics such as HDPE?
Thicker plastics such as HDPE are normally in the softer range of materials. Two flute solid carbide tools with soft plastic geometry are recommended. Q: What is the difference between wood and plastic tools? A: Plastic tools have different geometry. Higher rake angles, different clearance angles and shape of the flute all provide for better chip removal required to cut plastic materials more effectively. Q: Why does the workpiece finish decrease in quality with smaller diameter tools? A: There are a couple of reasons this can occur. Smaller diameter tools may deflect more than larger diameter tools and this will affect the finish. Also, chips may not clear as well with smaller diameter tools; the surface footage of a small diameter tool is less. Increasing the spindle speed may improve finish. Plastic geometry tools are recommended. Q: What are the most important factors for maximum CNC router production (with acceptable finish)? A: The formula to follow is: productivity = solid hold-
