Machining 316
Machining 316
(OP)
I'm having difficulty machining 316 on my CNC Mill. I'm using a 1/4", 4 FL, carbide end mill to cut a cavity out of a bar of 316 stainless, and consistantly chip my tool. (so far, it's chipped every time I've used it) I'm used to machining 303S, which seems like butter comparatively. My spindle rate is 1100 rpms, my linear feed rate fluctuates between 2.0 and 1.5. I hear chatterring when the tool changes direction from the X to Y axis, or vice versa. I've even tried a cobolt cutter, with no success. Does anyone have any suggestions? Perhaps 316 isn't the solution...I picked it for it's corrosion resistance. Is 304 or 304L any easier to machine?





RE: Machining 316
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Corrosion never sleeps, but it can be managed.
http://www.trenttube.com/Trent/tech_form.htm
RE: Machining 316
RE: Machining 316
RE: Machining 316
304/304L will work-harden faster than 316, so if that's your problem you shouldn't change to them.
RE: Machining 316
You are running a 72 sfpm at 1100 RPM which is low for carbide. It perfers the higher speed 2000-2500 rpm. The rigidity of the setup is always a consideration. I would try 2000-2500 rpm at 3-4 mm/s. If it chips, I would recommend switching to HSS cutter with a roughing cutter and a finish cutter. Increase the feed rate on the HSS to 2-3 mm/s.