jacobcarlgrant
Plastic
- Joined
- Jan 4, 2022
I am using a Multicam APEX3R CNC Router to machine slots in thin aluminum sheets (20ga, 0.028" thick). I was able to get the sheets to stay down to the spoilboard by using down-cut tooling. However, I am having issues preventing the aluminum from sticking and gumming up to the tool.
The machine is equipped with mist coolant. I've had the best luck with a 2-flute HSS 3/16" down-cut end mill, 16700 RPM and 150 IPM (820 SFM, 0.0045 IPT). The material does not stick to the end mill and the cut looks great with minimal burrs, but the first tool broke after less than an hour of cutting time.
I tried a similar end mill, except made of uncoated carbide instead of HSS. I used the same feeds/speeds on the same material, but the end mill gums up almost instantly and produces a horrible cut.
Why does the HSS tool resist sticking, while the carbide tool gums up so easily? Do I need to increase the SFM?
HSS tool link:
Amana Tool HSS1651 HSS Spiral Aluminum Cutting Double Flute Down-Cut 3/16 D x 5/8 CH x 1/4 SHK 2-7/8 Inch Long Router Bit
Carbide tool link:
57-060
Thank you in advance for the help.
The machine is equipped with mist coolant. I've had the best luck with a 2-flute HSS 3/16" down-cut end mill, 16700 RPM and 150 IPM (820 SFM, 0.0045 IPT). The material does not stick to the end mill and the cut looks great with minimal burrs, but the first tool broke after less than an hour of cutting time.
I tried a similar end mill, except made of uncoated carbide instead of HSS. I used the same feeds/speeds on the same material, but the end mill gums up almost instantly and produces a horrible cut.
Why does the HSS tool resist sticking, while the carbide tool gums up so easily? Do I need to increase the SFM?
HSS tool link:
Amana Tool HSS1651 HSS Spiral Aluminum Cutting Double Flute Down-Cut 3/16 D x 5/8 CH x 1/4 SHK 2-7/8 Inch Long Router Bit
Carbide tool link:
57-060
Thank you in advance for the help.