Did you know that most cutting tools have a shorter tool life due to poor maintenance? This is because most people lack knowledge on how to handle their tools properly. However, it’s everyone’s wish that we get the most out of the tools at low maintenance costs. When tools break down at times, we least expect them. Repairing them becomes costly, and the production process is delayed. Therefore, we will explain what you can do to your brand new end mill to maximize its machining performance.
Coating
Coating is the first thing you can do to maximize your end mill machining experience. The coating will give your end mill a hard shell that will protect its cutting edges and, in most instances, allow it to withstand the high temperatures that come with processing hard materials. Coatings made from Titanium Nitride offer general-purpose protection against the wear of high-speed steel and carbide end mills. Coating your end mill with coatings that contain carbon will enable your machine to run almost twice as fast as an uncoated counterpart without wear from the external heat generated. Also, coatings with aluminum can take the heat generated by blazing speeds and feed rates.
Set Speed and Feed Rates
For any proper milling to occur, the cutting speed and feed rate need to be correct. These two dictate how the rest of the operations go. The speed and feed will determine the chip load. Even if the speed is correct, feeding too fast might break the mill. The feed rate is no good either if the ideal speed is not set. A faster speed will generate enough heat to soften the tool, and this will cause the tool to become dull and wear out faster. Therefore, it is important from the word to go to set the correct speed and feed rates, to avoid overworking the endmill and to combat deflection.
Use Flood Coolant
Using a flood coolant will help a lot with chip handling. Removing chips from the cutting area is a major concern for productivity, surface finish, and tool wear and tear reduction. Chips absorb a lot of heat during the cutting process, and heat is the endmill’s worst enemy. Heat also helps bind some aluminum materials to the endmill. When aluminum chips weld themselves on the tool edges, it will only be a matter of time, and you have a broken mill. Thus, using a flood coolant will not only lower the temperature of the chip below the critical temperature but also help flush them away. However, most end mill manufacturers in the US sell them with the appropriate coolants.
Doing these three things to your brand new end mill will enhance your tool’s machining performance and ensure you have a smooth experience with your tool. Again, the cost of maintaining your tool will be lowered, and your production optimized. One of the best end mill manufacturers in the US is Suncoast Precision Tools. They are widely known for distributing high-quality tools, especially their carbide end mills. Their end mills are manufactured by the leading carbide tool manufacturers. Visit their website at suncoasttools.com for more information.
