Hi all,
I have a project that will require cutting a bunch of 2D profiles in 0.500" aluminum on my Sieg X1 micro mill. I've done two pieces using an ordinary 4-flute, 1/4" endmill and baby-sitting it with a chip brush to keep the cutter as clear of chips as possible. I ran at about 1000 RPM (top end of the lo speed range IIRC) and 6-7ipm feeds.
The results were good enough but I was curious if there was room to improve. Specifically:
1. Would a 2-flute mill be better? Larger or smaller diameter?
2. Different suggested speeds and feeds?
3. Any benefit to something like a cobalt rougher with the serrated edges?
4. Would spray coolant help with chip clearing or is flood the only way? I have neither but an upgrade is possible.
Assume for the sake of this discussion that the X1 cannot be upgraded to something larger--I've got it CNC'd and the extended Y and for the size and cost it is a sweet little machine!