Help with aluminium

[emerald]

What's the best spindle speed? Also want to ask about the end mill? Scenario is I wanna cut aluminium on my TAIG CNC machine. I'm thinking high spindle speeds is the best but I ain't really sure. So for the flutes, is 2, 3, or 4 better? I'm not sure. Lastly, what's gonna help keep things smooth for me because I think aluminium is prone to galling am I right?

 

[GreenFlagMan]

you need to go with the high speed, it's more effective that way

 

[MaiTai1]

What's the best spindle speed? Also want to ask about the end mill? Scenario is I wanna cut aluminium on my TAIG CNC machine. I'm thinking high spindle speeds is the best but I ain't really sure. So for the flutes, is 2, 3, or 4 better? I'm not sure. Lastly, what's gonna help keep things smooth for me because I think aluminium is prone to galling am I right?

You're on the right track. Just use higher rpm with smaller end mills for example 1/4", 1/8", and try to keep the feed rates in check

 

[autumnleaves]

You're on the right track. Just use higher rpm with smaller end mills for example 1/4", 1/8", and try to keep the feed rates in check

Touché. Wow, it's really nice to see people actually helping in forums. Forums are not dead I guess. That makes me quite happy

 

[MachineFun]

I think the machine can handle 10k rpm so that's where I'd start and would probably take it up to 12k but not above. For better chip clerange and clogging use 2 flute end mills and get yourself some cutting fluid to keep the cuts smooth. I've used wd40 in the past and it works, but it's not meant for that

 

[Deleted member 71]

Use uncoated cutters designed for aluminium and non ferrous, 2 or 3 flute carbide. High spindle speed and the feed will need to go up accordingly so you are cutting not rubbing. Ideally use more of the side of the cutter not just the end with a stepover of 10% cutter dia and vertical DOC 1-1.5 x cutter dia

Paraffin (kerro) applied with a brush will help stop the chips sticking as well as the uncoated surface. use some air to clear the chips. Ideally go upto a fogbuster.

 

[MaiTai1]

Touché. Wow, it's really nice to see people actually helping in forums. Forums are not dead I guess. That makes me quite happy

That's what forums are for, for me at least. We build community around shared interests and of course helping each other's

 

[cuts&circuits]

What's the best spindle speed? Also want to ask about the end mill? Scenario is I wanna cut aluminium on my TAIG CNC machine. I'm thinking high spindle speeds is the best but I ain't really sure. So for the flutes, is 2, 3, or 4 better? I'm not sure. Lastly, what's gonna help keep things smooth for me because I think aluminium is prone to galling am I right?

When it comes to cutting aluminum with your TAIG CNC, aim for a spindle speed of about 10,000 RPM. A 2-flute end mill is your best bet since it helps with effective chip removal, which can lower the chances of clogging. You're spot on about aluminum being susceptible to galling, so using a quality cutting fluid and keeping the right speeds and feeds is key to ensuring a smooth process. Also, don't forget to secure the workpiece to prevent any vibrations. Hope this is helpful

 

[Jon S]

Single 0'flute is the way to go, if you can get DLC coated single flute for aluminium, they're available for a lot less than they used to be. There are some higher end version but the chinesium versions work just as well. Crank up the machine as fast as it will go. I cut it everyday at 24k RPM and speeds anywhere from 1200 to 2500 mm per minute.