Proper Router Bit Speed ??

[Rob Will]

With a variable speed router, at what speed should I be turning a 1/2" diameter spiral pattern bit? Mostly making light cuts under 1/8".

5/4 hard maple
3/4 poplar

The router will go to 21K rpm but is there any big problem with running about 13K rpm? I like the quietness of lower speeds IF it's ok to do.

Your toughts?

TIA

Rob

[David Duke]

Rob, the 1/2" bit will run at 21k and it will cut faster feed rates and the finish cut will be a lot smoother than with lower speeds but if the finish is acceptable using lower speeds then by all means use the lower rpm if thats your preference.

[Brian Weick]

these are the speeds you should use with different diamiter cutting bits;
Bit DiameterMaximum SpeedUp to 1 inch24,000 rpmUp to 2 inches18,000 rpmUp to 2-1/2 inches16,000 rpmUp to 3-1/2 inches12,000 rpm
Hope this helps,
Brian

[Charles Wiggins]

Router Bit Diameter = Maximum Speed
Up to 1" = 22,000 - 24,000 rpm
1" to 2" = 18,000 - 22,000 rpm
2" to 2-1/2" = 12,000 - 16,000 rpm
2-1/2" to 3-1/2" = 8,000 - 12,000 rpm

From: http://www.rockler.com/blog/index.cfm?commentID=149

[Cliff Rohrabacher]

The most scientific method I have encountered is fast enough to cut clean slow enough to not burn.