Spiral Cutter Bits
Pay in 3 interest-free payments on purchases from £30-2000 with 
. Learn more.
Loading...
End of content
Error - No more pages to load
About Spiral Cutter Bits
Spiral cutter bits are specialised router cutters designed with helical cutting edges that provide superior performance compared to standard straight-fluted bits. The spiral design allows for smoother cutting action, reduced chip loading, and cleaner finishes across a wide range of materials. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks an extensive range of Trend spiral cutter bits, including upcut, downcut, and combined configurations to suit different routing applications and material types.
These precision-engineered cutters are available in various specifications, including HSS (High Speed Steel), HSSE (High Speed Steel Enhanced), and solid tungsten carbide (STC) variants. Whether you're working with plastics, acrylics, aluminium, phenolic materials, or general woodworking applications, spiral cutter bits deliver exceptional edge quality whilst prolonging tool life and reducing the risk of material tear-out or burning.
Applications
- Joiners and Cabinetmakers: Creating clean edges on laminated boards, veneered panels, and solid timber
- Shopfitters: Trimming and routing display materials, plastics, and composite panels
- Sign Makers: Engraving and routing acrylic, plastics, and aluminium signage materials
- Caravan and Marine Industries: Precision trimming of GRP, plastics, and specialist composite materials
- Kitchen Fitters: Worktop trimming and template routing with superior edge finish
- General Woodworkers: Mortising, grooving, and template routing requiring clean entry and exit cuts
- Plastics Fabrication: Routing acrylic, polycarbonate, and other thermoplastic materials without chipping
Choosing The Right Spiral Cutter Bits
Upcut vs Downcut: Upcut spirals efficiently evacuate chips upwards, ideal for deep cuts and mortising, whilst downcut spirals push chips downward, leaving crisp top edges on laminates and veneers. Combined spiral cutters offer the benefits of both designs for versatile applications.
Material Compatibility: Select cutters designed for your specific material. HSS and HSSE cutters work well for non-ferrous metals like aluminium, whilst STC (solid tungsten carbide) variants excel on abrasive materials and provide extended tool life. MyToolShed.co.uk offers specialist cutters for acrylics, plastics, phenolic materials, and general routing tasks.
Shank Diameter and Cutting Length: Ensure your router collet matches the shank diameter (typically 6mm, 8mm, or 12.7mm). Consider the required cutting depth and choose appropriate flute length for your application. Bearing-guided options provide template routing capabilities without requiring a fence.
Single vs Multi-Flute: Single flute designs offer excellent chip clearance for softer materials, whilst multi-flute cutters provide finer finishes and faster feed rates on harder materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between upcut and downcut spiral bits?
Upcut spiral bits pull chips upward, making them ideal for deep mortising and grooving where chip evacuation is critical. Downcut bits push chips downward, preventing top-surface tear-out on laminates and veneered materials, making them perfect for through-cuts where surface finish matters most.
Can I use spiral cutter bits in a handheld router?
Yes, spiral cutter bits work excellently in both handheld and table-mounted routers. However, ensure your router has sufficient power (typically 1000W+ for larger diameter cutters) and maintain proper speed settings. Always secure workpieces firmly and use appropriate dust extraction.
How do I extend the life of my spiral cutter bits?
Run cutters at the correct RPM for the material and bit diameter, avoid forcing cuts, and ensure workpieces are clean and free from embedded screws or nails. Clean resin build-up regularly with router bit cleaner, and store cutters in protective cases to prevent edge damage.