Hello!
I have a Shopmaster Bridgemill and have also posted this inquiry on that forum. I am new to the world of metal working. By trade I am a ceramic designer and ceramic artist for 38 years, designing and manufacturing for the tabletop, giftware, and ceramic art industries. I have worked extensively with Ren Shape and plaster, as well as all ceramic materials.
I use Ashlar Vellum drawing and modeling software and would like to turn some aluminum parts for a new line of espresso service pieces used in conjunction with my ceramic pieces. The tool holder on my Bridgemill accepts many different sizes (it is a four sided device) and I have no idea of a basic set of cutting tools that I might need. I have been accumulating books but they really don't provide me with the information I need, just yet. I am at the beginning of a journey, so to speak, and while I understand about grinding tools from HSS steel and such, my thinking tells me at this point that some carbide tipped tools might be a good way to start. I need to do some boring and shaping of very simple shapes in aluminum.
I look forward to your sage advice. Thanks in advance!
Respectfully,
Jonathan in Denver