I am not a trained machinist and take my hat off to you if you are. I have though, built a cnc router and used it for years. It took a while to learn Fusion and to cut alloy with a high speed spindle without welding my cutter to the work-piece - etc etc.
I have been asked to manufacture some small solid parts for a mechanical chair that is used in hospitals. Quite a cool project really. The parts are small 50*30*70mm, quite solid, the sample(s) attached both bolt together and allow a steel rod to be moved back and forth between them before being sandwiched together to hold tight. There is a bit of swing on the part. But it is a good representation of the job. There are other similar parts but the sample is good enough.
I am using 5083 - its all I know to use because I can machine with it. My boss asked me today if I should be using a high strength alloy? I dont know what to say or do. Any input would be appreciated.
Do I perhaps look at using 6061 instead and having it heat-treated? I understand you cant heat treat 5083.
Or is there another grade I should look at that I can machine with a high speed cutter, and will give me a stronger end product?
It would be awesome to hear from a guru please - I dont want to look like a tool in front of me boss if you know what I mean. B