Straight and Spiral Router Bits for Aluminum
Also known as O-flute bits, the flutes on these bits are open and rounded for efficient chip removal when cutting aluminum. This also reduces heat to prevent melting or warping. Use these bits to create square slots, pockets, and edges. They are plunge cutting, letting you cut directly into the workpiece from above. They do not have a pilot, so guide your router along a straight edge when hand routing to make accurate cuts.
Carbide bits have a longer life and faster cutting speeds than high-speed steel bits. Their extreme hardness makes them brittle, so they’re not recommended for use with hand tools. A highly rigid setup, such as a CNC machine, is necessary to keep bits from breaking.
Bits with straight flutes are for general purpose use. They quickly remove material, leaving a rough finish.
Bits with upward chip removal lift chips up for applications that require a smooth finish on the bottom edge of the cut. Securely clamp the workpiece before routing to prevent lifting.
Choose a bit with one flute for a faster cut; bits with two flutes produce a smoother finish.
| Cutting Dia. | Lg. of Cut | Shank Dia. | Overall Lg. | Number of Flutes | For Tool Type | Each | |
Uncoated Carbide | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Straight Flutes with Upward Chip Removal | |||||||
| 7/16" | 1" | 1/2" | 3" | 1 | CNC Machine | 0000000 | 0000000 |
Diamond-Coated Router Bits for Composites
With a diamond coating, these bits resist wear when used on abrasive materials, making them last about 50 times longer than uncoated bits. Their sharp cutting edges and flute shapes are specifically designed to cut through tough materials such as composites with minimal resistance. This means less strain on your router and more control when cutting, leading to a smooth cut. Bits are made of solid carbide for longer tool life and faster cutting speeds than high-speed steel.
Roughed-Spiral Flutes—Nicks on the edges of the spirals reduce the amount of force required to cut through composites, giving you more control as you cut.
Use bits with a square cut style to cut slots, pockets, and edges.
Plunge-cutting bits let you cut directly into the workpiece from above. Other bits are best for operations where the peripheral teeth do most of the work such as trimming, contouring, and finishing.
Bits with upward chip removal lift chips up for applications that require a smooth finish on the bottom edge of the cut. Securely clamp the workpiece before routing to prevent lifting.
| Cutting Dia. | Lg. of Cut | Shank Dia. | Overall Lg. | Number of Flutes | Cut Type | For Tool Type | For Use On | Each | |
Diamond-Coated Carbide | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Roughed Spiral Flutes with a Square Cut Style—Upward Chip Removal | |||||||||
| 7/16" | 1 5/16" | 1/2" | 3" | 8 | Plunge | CNC Machine, Router Table | Carbon Fiber, Fiberglass, Composites | 00000000 | 0000000 |