New to Aluminium, looking for support

CNC Machines Shapeoko
1

Hi there team. I am looking to use the Shapeoko 3xxl to cut this (See hyperlink below). It’s a kick plate for a door. It’s 0.03 inches thick and the sheet I will be cutting is actually going to be 6x10 inches. I’ve cut wood but never aluminium. What do I need to know before doing this? looking for suggestions on Bit type, speed and feeds, chip removal and lubrication? Thanks.

Edit: I plan on using Carbide Create.

1 Like
2

Hi Goldrif,

I did my first Aluminium cut yesterday so no expert. I used a single flute upcut bit and used the speeds and feeds generated from Carbide Create. I applied cutting lubricant for the first 2 cuts and then cut one without and it seemed ok but better to have lube. Just a bit messier.
Hope this helps.
Cheers

Nick

2 Likes
3

Thanks, I’ll start with this. sounds like it should work just fine.

4

Well, you could always do a 5 minute search here to find the 1000s on posts and comments regarding milling aluminum, but nahhhhhh…

Here is my fool proof formula.

  1. Coated end mill (ZrN) (See Carbide3D store)

  2. Size: I like a 1/4" (Cause it’s nearly impossible to break, and I use them for about 2 years on average)

  3. WD40 (not always necessary but ALWAYS helps)

  4. Speed (RPM: Lowest setting)

  5. Feed: I like 20 Inches per min to 30

  6. Depth of cut: 0.020 -0.030" deep

  7. MAKE SURE THE WORK IS PROPERLY CLAMPED DOWN…NO TAPE (For a beginner).

  8. Chip removal: Dust pan and brush WHEN you are done.

  9. Wear your safety glasses…

3 Likes
5

Thank you Rich. I’ve been looking and I’ve received some very helpful advice, but this is all in one easy package and I’m great with Bullet points. :slight_smile:

6

First you buy the HDZ, then mod it with linear rails, and eventually get a spindle… J/K :slight_smile:

Single flutes are king

Otherwise

3 Likes
7

Here is my Mr. Frugal’s review of a Single Flute Cutter.

They cost 2-3 times more have and 1/3 the cutting edge. So I do not recommend single flute cutters for beginners…cause you WILL make mistakes…

For the Machinist/production guy: Awesome tool if you are making money on your product and can pay for them.

2 Likes
8

This topic was automatically closed 30 days after the last reply. New replies are no longer allowed.