Machsupport Forum

Tangent Corner => Tangent Corner => Topic started by: lemo on May 04, 2007, 09:34:35 AM

Title: End Mill starter kit
Post by: lemo on May 04, 2007, 09:34:35 AM

Hi all

I just finished building my Taig Kit and am looking forward to some cutting.
Due to the fact that I'm new to the matter I would ask for some advice regarding a nice set of end mills for my mini mill.
My intentions are 4 axis wood cutting and maybe with much lower priority aluminium to build little jigs for my wood working.
But right now, wood carving and detailing is my priority.
Besides that I have to engrave in acrylics and metal.
I took a look at several options and am a bit at a loss. There are gazillions of options. Diamond engraver, carbide.... and whatnot.
I fear that if I start buying stuff at ebay I will end up with an end mill which arrives with a truck, ready to carve an elephant out of a redwood tree in 1:1 scale.
So... if someone could help me figure what a good starter kit is and where those precious items can be ordered best then I would be very grateful.
Unfortunately it seems that here in New Jersey (Newark area) there are no 'go to and pick up stores'. I called around and all I found were a few mega store/middle men who distribute to 'vending machines' at their client sides. Unfortunately I don't have access to such a vending machine. Which.... is probably a good thing 8))).

Have a great weekend
Lemo

Title: Re: End Mill starter kit
Post by: Graham Waterworth on May 04, 2007, 04:46:56 PM

Have a look here :-

http://www.artsoftcontrols.com/forum/index.php?action=links;cat=16

If you are running at below 10000 rpm on your spindle HSSE or Cobalt cutters will be fine, if you are above that then look at carbide.

High helix cutters need a ridged machine as they try to pull the head down.

Slot drills clear wood better than end mills.

End mill don't like plunging into solid faces even the end cutting type, slot drills do.

If you want more info just ask.

Graham.

Title: Re: End Mill starter kit
Post by: lemo on May 04, 2007, 05:46:41 PM

Thanks Graham, that get's me a step further!
Today I cut my first cut ever (Wheeee).
Perfect circle with an old Dremel Bit in pink foam.
I'll play with the tool path first before I take more risks.
With my 5 days experience I'm happy that nothing exploded.
Lemo