Freud adds to its Premier bit series

Freud recently introduced eight new router bits to its Premier solid carbide spiral bit series. A number of factors, such as the geometry, design and materials that make up the bits have been combined to deliver optimized performance, says the company.

Cliff Paddock, Freud's director of new product development, says the Premier bit series was developed primarily for CNC users in cabinet and large industrial shops, but the bits are also ideal for use in small shops.

Technically referred to as TiCo hi-density bits, they are formulated with micrograin carbide and a high-density blend of titanium and cobalt. Paddock says the company manufactures its own carbide variations in Italy and that multiple blends of carbide were tested in various bit geometries for the best combination.

Paddock says the extended open-flute design allows for fast chip ejection and helps the bits run cooler. "We always tell our customers that the ultimate enemy of a carbide tool is heat. If you build up a lot of heat, whether it's a router bit or a saw blade, the carbide tends to lose its sharp edge more quickly."

The primary relief featured on the outside of the cutting edge further increases the longevity of the bits because it is relatively wide. "That allows for more resharpening of the bit without reducing the diameter too much. Customers not only get the life out of the bit in the initial cut, but they're able to resharpen more often and get an increased life out of them," says Paddock.

Freud says the bits also feature a polished grind to reduce adhesion and create an exceptional finish even on the most delicate of materials, such as melamine.

The eight new compression bit designs include double and triple flute; single and double flute mortise; and four variations of triple flute mortise. Prices start at $55.

Contact: Freud Tools. Tel: 800-472-7307. www.freudtools.com

This article originally appeared in the April 2011 issue.