Machining Guidelines
Turning and milling of ACM composites can be performed using conventional tungsten carbide turning tools however for prolonged tool life, we recommend using diamond tipped inserts.
Dust extraction is highly recommended when machining composite materials. Operators should also wear a non-toxic particle mask to avoid dust particle inhalation.
ACM materials should be machined dry (coolant is not required) with a surface cutting speed of 300 - 350 m/min.
| Turning Tool Geometry |
|---|
| Lead Angle | 0° - 5° (Flat - Positive) |
| Heel Angle | 5° - 3° (Positive) |
| Top Rake | 0° - 5° (Flat - Positive) |
| Tip Radius | 0.8 - 2.0 mm |
| Turning / Milling |
|---|
| Diameter (mm) | 0 - 50 | 50 - 100 | 100 - 200 | 200 - 400 | 400 - 600 | 600 - 800 | 800 - 1000 |
| Speed (rpm) | 2100 | 1000 | 750 | 500 | 350 | 150 | 100 |
| Feed Rate | Roughing 0.20 - 0.30 / Finshing 0.10 - 0.15 |
Drilling can be performed with standard HSS drill bits however for prolonged drilling operations, carbide tipped drills are recommended.
| Drilling |
|---|
| Diameter (mm) | 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 | 25 | 30 | 40 |
| Speed (rpm) | 1000 | 800 | 600 | 400 | 350 | 300 | 200 |
| Feed Rate | 400 | 400 | 300 | 300 | 350 | 300 | 100 |
Sanding should be performed using silicon carbide sanding belts. Belts containing aluminium oxide may contaminate the ACM material, which will cause problems in application.
All ACM grades are non-toxic and dust formed during machining is classified as a 'nuisance dust' only.
