Hey guys. I figured I would post up some pictures and info on an experience I had using my CNC router. First off, its a FLA 200 model paired with a Hitachi M12vc router.
Today I was cutting aluminum very succesfully for the first time after a ton of trial and error. I spent days researching on how to cut aluminum best and go nowhere fast. I literally had 12+ hours reading forum posts and sadly got better information on cutting aluminum in 10 seconds from Ron Reed at Precise Bits when I called to ask about an issue I encountered. Ive cut over 40 items in aluminum just trying to find the right settings to use and the best results I have had included one major thing.
Cut depth. Cut multiple passes at a very shallow cut depth for a much cleaner and more effective cut. Chip clearance works much better and alot less heat is generated. I was cutting at .007" per pass. As mentioned above, Ron suggested a .010" cut depth or less. So, thats my advice for anyone looking to cut aluminum without flood coolant on a woodworking machine.
Anyways. On to the pics and learning curve.
What I learned: Always tighten your collet as tight as you can! Snug isnt good enough.
Why I learned this: My bit spun in the collet when My aluminum bowed up and I ended up cutting .125" in a single pass and breaking the bit. When the bit spun in the collet, it fractured and pieces of the carbide bit embedded into the collet.
Pics for anyone who'd like to see it.
Aluminum cutting info:
Bit: 1/4" Carbide High helix AL 2 Flute
Alloy cut: 3003 aluminum 1/8" sheet
Spindle Speed:24,000
Feedrate: 84 IPM
Depth of cut: .007"
BTW: I was able to reposition my hold downs and cut the part fully with great success once cutting was at a uniform depth through the entire toolpath.