Also, if there is a list of machine shop rules somewhere that includes things like this, I’d like to see it.
The best drill are HSS Cobalt. This site discusses.
http://www.ttp-hard-drills.com/vid-stainless-steel-drilling.html
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Thanks for the advice zmetzing and Photomancer, I will get some HSS Cobalt bits.
Plus 1 for the HSS Cobalt bits, they’re more expensive, but definitely the way to go.
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I don’t think anyone answered the question though.
I have no idea. But it sounds like the answer is no. Don’t use House bits to cut steel.
Defer to someone who knows what they’re talking about.
There is not rules on what materials you are allowed to cut with our tooling. That said you will have a very bad day cutting something like stainless with our tooling, I would highly recommend getting something specific for the job.
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I mean I said I had no idea. I was mostly highlighting that he had asked a question and that the discussion seemed to deviate into which bits to buy himself.
Thanks Chris_Wischkowsky, I will find the proper tooling for stainless, buy my own, and use that. If it breaks then nobody cares.
As for milling, my understanding is that since I’m a newbie I should use carbide-coated (or “cemented”) mill ends rather than our pure carbide mill ends because of their breakage possibility.
If you look at Machinery handbook it will give you guide - both type of alloy, type cutter and speeds
Thanks Photomancer I will read that Machinery handbook very carefully next time I’m at DMS.
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Zach is quite correct. However, you can’t rush it and you need to use PLENTY of oil.
Let me re-emphasize that - YOU CAN’T RUSH IT. Stainless is harder than HHS. trying to punch it quickly will make the drill bit go the way of the bandsaw blades for the same reason.
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Thank you for those tips nicksilva, now I am confident enough to machine some stainless.
If I break our mill or it accessories I’ll fix it in a heartbeat.
I have no fear the mill will break. the end mills might take a beating. We’ve got plenty of the 1/2" size for hogging out. Make sure you use the center drills to keep the drill bits from flexing. Plenty of oil (WD40 in the pots). there is almost always someone around if you need help.
that shaft is way too long. expect it to wander or chatter. Need to keep the bit/drill only exposed as much as you need. cheers!