Trimming Formica on a Planer/jointer Stand

[James Kirkpatrick]

Added black microdot Formica to this planer/jointer stand. Used a flush trim bit all around, but the edges are a bit “sharp”. Worried about future chip-outs. Purchased a Freud 41-501 1/16” radius laminate trim bit, which I tried on some scrap. Works pretty well, but pretty touchy about getting the depth just right. Wondering what others use to finish laminate edges over plywood like this?

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[Mel Fulks]

Around here it’s always a sharp file. Not really difficult,but most won’t allow a green new guy to do it.

[John TenEyck]

Formica is usually first trimmed flush with a flush cut bit. Then the edge is beveled with another bit specifically made for that task. There still is a sharp top edge which needs to be softened. That's where the file comes in for those who have some training; otherwise, 220 grit sandpaper works well, too.

John

[James Kirkpatrick]

Thanks guys. I did use a flush trim bit as noted, an old Craftsman 1/4” dual-flute with bearing. Worked well but Formica has that cardboardy underside that likes to fray and stick out. PITA to clean up. For the beveling I finally went with the Freud 41-502 bit (sorry for typo in original post). Worked great once I got the depth just right on some scrap formica-on-plywood samples. The bit still left that sharp top edge and plenty of frayed underside. So I researched and found a great fine knife file (McMaster Carr) that cleaned up that sharp top edge and took care of all the little frayed pieces. Again, a little practice on scrap gave me the confidence I needed. So after all that, still left with the basic question - what beveling bit(s) do you guys use? I would rate the Freud an 8 out of 10. Pretty good but gums up quickly and is finicky to get the depth just right.

[andy bessette]

After using a flush trim bit I just knock the sharp corner down using 80-grit self-stick sandpaper discs on a block of plywood scrap.

[Cary Falk]

No beveling bit for me. I just use a flush trim bit. I use a file to knock off the sharp edges. WD40 on the bit will help the glue from gumming up the bit. Use lacquer thinner/ acetone/mineral spirits to clean up the glue mess from the Formica.

[James Kirkpatrick]

Thanks Guys! Great feedback, very helpful.

[Mike Kees]

There are special files made for laminate. I have used normal files as well (Single cut) ,sharp new files work best.

[Tom Bender]

Sounds like a perfect job for a ROS