[Buzz239]

Hi everyone,

I am using a Sable 2015 mill/engraver, Kcam software on Windows xp. I have had this setup for 2 years and it has worked very well for me.

My first question is:

About cutting bits. I bought some Carbide 30 Deg 0.1mm bits from Hong Kong and they appear to be good quality. I am engraving aluminum disks for radio dials. The numerals are .100 high and .004 deep. I have had to lower my feed rate from 5 IPM down to 2 IPM just to keep from breaking the tip off. I use a product called Sea Foam on the disk in order to disperse the cuttings and make for a smoother cut. If I buy the more expensive bit sold hear (USA) for $17.95 ea., am I going to have the same problem?

My second question is:

I have used every thing, Black Lacquer, Black Enamel, Marking Crayon and grease pencil. I just bought some Lacquer sticks. It goes on very well and fills nicely, but does this stuff ever dry? Maybe there's some type of curing process.

Thanks in advance...Buzz

[Tweakie]

Hi Buzz,

I think you will just have to try it and see with the engraving points.
I have had some very good quality points from China (and also some rubbish) and it perhaps depends on the micro-grain of the carbide used in the manufacture - the trouble is you can't tell just by looking and you have to rely on the manufacturer's / vendors word regarding the quality.

As for the filling I use Rub'n'Buff, it is a US product and commonly available via ebay.

Tweakie.