Machining Brass

[lexluthier]

Hi,
I need some advise for profile cutting 1/16 inch brass plate.
What would be the ideal spindel RPM, and feed rate using a 1/8 inch dia. bit and what type of bit is best.

[Brady Watson]

Hold-down is the biggest issue on plate that thin. A standard carbide or HSS 2-flute end mill is the right tool for the job. I would try starting out at about 13,000 RPM and 1 IPS. This is a job for vacuum or carefully placed screws...as carpet tape may fail and will bend your part when you remove it.

-B

[lexluthier]

Thanks Brady,
I know from my metal working background that machining brass with a conventional mill like a Bridgeport is at a much lower RPM and when searching around on the Web, most formulas are related to these types of CNC machines. I'll give it a try.

Mark