Hi Guys, I am looking at a CNC machine as I need to mill some aluminum parts that will be 25mm (1 inch) thick. What considerations do I need to make when choosing a CNC build that will be able to mill these parts. Thanks Mike
I would be sure to use a lead/acme screw driven machine that is ridged. The main thing to keep in mind is to use multiple shallow Z axis depth passes and very sharp bits with a little oil to keep the bit cool.
That's not really a simple question. It really depends on a multitude of things such as machine rigidity, spindle speed, spindle HP, bit used, DOC, feed speeds. Not to mention lubrication and cooling, using a mister or flood or cutting dry. Good chip evacuation will be a big thing on cutting 1 inch aluminum, last thing you want to do is recut chips, create chip weld. Every DIY machine is different so it's really trial and error to get it just right. Folks can give you the settings they use and how many passes it takes them to cut, but that may be way off base for your particular machine. Just my 2.375 cents.. Gerald
Hi Gerald... that makes sense... I don't have a machine yet... any reccomendations for what would work best for my final task? (making parts from 1 inch alluminium)