Hello guys I’m wondering what is the highest feed rate you would set for a quarter inch endmill I have the depth setting at .07. I am cutting a soft type of hardwood.
I am using a pocketing operation to cut out the shapes of my product out of a three-quarter inch piece of hardwood.
There are too many variables for there to be One True Answer ™. The best way to find out is to experiment on a piece of scrap material similar to what you are using, then you can use the Feedrate Override in Carbide Motion to increase the speed. Work with simple shapes like squares and circles, so that you can immediately tell if the machine is losing steps.
With a good quality new bit, I would estimate that you can start at 100IPM and work your way up from there.
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I realize it’s a vague question and you answered it well! So loosing steps is what I would look for in testing? Are there other things to look For?
If you are losing steps, then you’ve definitely pushed things too far. Other things too look for
- Edges getting worse (more splintering). Also the finish of the bottom of the pocket.
- Excess vibration / chatter from the bit
- A marked increase in noise during cutting
Start conservative, and get a feel for how the machine is cutting. As you increase the feedrate, you want to stop before there are indications the machine is struggling to keep up - vibration, excess noise, poor finish.
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Thanks again for the great advice!
You may also see deflection in the bit. Not so much in a .250. You did not tell us what machine you are using. On a belt drive system, you will see more belt stretch—the possibility of bearing failure in your router from pushing it.
Like @mhotchin said start slow and ramp up. You will find the sweet spot for the wood and your machine.
Ohh sorry I have a shiny new pro 5!
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No experience on that yet. When I win the lottery.
BUT my comments hold true. Pushing too hard can cause damage to your part or machine. There are others that have that machine that push it hard with no ill effects. Listen to your machine and bit. It will tell you what you need to know
Such great advice ! I will tune in hard to the sound that really does tell you so much.
I’m running only at 60-70 so far
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