Cutting Chipboard?

Mostly Printed CNC - MPCNC Advice
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I have 2.5 mm (30 ply) chipboard and I want to cut out patterns and shapes. What would be the best way to do this on the MPCNC?

My first thought was to use the drag knife (from the V1 shop) but the blade is so small, I am not sure what its capabilities are.

My second thought was to use the end mill set (from the V1 shop) but I think I would have to go so slow and with such a small step to get nice clean cuts with no tear out.

My third thought was to use a razor drag knife from thingiverse, but I couldn’t find any that were actually being used/had good reviews. They mostly seemed like prototypes. (And I am not sure they would actually work)

This is an example of the chipboard I want to cut. (For anyone unfamiliar with chipboard, think “card board” puzzle pieces)

Chipboard

Has anyone cut similar material? What did you use?

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Try a test cut, but I think you’re backwards on the thinking with the end mill. Something that thin and soft, I’d try to cut faster.

Most of us cutting cardboard like material are using lasers :slight_smile: but that’s a whole nother can of worms.

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To minimize tear out on material that thin, I think you could use a down cut spiral bit.

On the other hand, I think 2.5mm is much too thick for a drag knife.

The laser, as @niget2002 points out, is probably the best tool for the job though.

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The only reason that lasers are not something I considered is because I haven’t found reviews/instructions for one that is reasonably priced (yet still a decent quality) and powerful enough to have use beyond chipboard that doesn’t require familiarity with electronic hardware.

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My vote is with pete… try a downcut bit.

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