Amana unveils its new router bit series

Amana Tool has created a new series of insert router bits to produce raised panel doors from MDF or solid panels. Available in seven profiles - including traditional, ogee, bead and cove - the bits feature replaceable MDF-grade carbide knives that insert into the company's patented Nova Tool body system.

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The higher grade of carbide increases the life of the router bit and delivers smooth cuts in hard materials such as MDF and chipboard. The knives can be resharpened multiple times without affecting the original tool profile and the cutting quality and accuracy remain constant during the life of the tool, according to Amana.

"We came up with insertable bits that will last four to six times longer than standard brazed carbide-tipped bits," says Frank Misiti, technical director for Amana Tools. "We're using one tool body that accepts replaceable knives of different profiles and expanding that technology into the CNC market. They're designed to give the appearance of a raised panel door in MDF or solid wood."

There are four Plunge Form profiles, which will produce a simple raised panel look in one pass. A second pass with the Raised Panel profiles will produce a more authentic look, according to Misiti.

"You can get a deeper reveal when you use the two profiles together and there's nothing to assemble after the machining process. You're saving money on tooling, material and labor," adds Misiti.

The Nova Tool body is available in a 1/2" shank and the bits are priced comparable to standard router bits. The three raised panel knives and four plunge knives can be mixed and matched to create up to 12 different raised panel designs.

Each router bit is sold separately, starting at $119.66 for the bead profile. The replacement knives cost $84.92 per pair.

Contact

Amana Tool, 120 Carolyn Blvd., Farmingdale, NY 11735. Tel: 800-445-0077. www.amanatool.com

This article originally appeared in the February 2010 issue.