Trimming Fixtures

[Shredder]

Hi all, just want to say what a great resource this fourm is.
It nice to see all the questions and great answers from all these different individuals. It is exactly what make the internet so great.
to my issue

I make helmets. Currently we trim the parts on a band saw.
I want to convert to a 5 axis CNC router, but alas i don’t have that sort of cash.

so i want to make trim fixtures. basically a mold of the part with a smooth edge that guides a hand held Dotco router with a collar on it.
My question is this. Whattype of metal to bond to the edge, and how to bond it to the fixtures.
second. we have to drill holes in the helmet shells for straps and such. In the trimming fixtures i want to put the holes in and use some sort of bushing or metal insert to protect the fixture. Any ideas?

Regards
Tom
www.shredready.com

[Werksberg]

We just tonight tried a little experiment in the classroom and it work FABOULOUS!

The students are making CF Pre-preg clipboards. We have them use a middle size bandsaw to trim close (1/16" to 1/8") to a flat profile routering template which stuck on with dbl. side film tape.

We usually kill the band saws blades FAST! But this time, I filpped the blade inside out so the teeth are pointed upwards! Man, it cuts oven cured CF Pre-pregs like butter!

They then use our profile router table with a 3/8" flush bit with a bearing on top to run along the template egde.

Anyway, back to you…for the drill bit guides, try a machine type shops as they have press in bushings for that problem.

I’d look into trying to use a bottom bearing router bit on your fixture but watch out for the exposed cutters!:eek:

Off to bed for me now…