Fine engraving in Aluminum

[joa]

Trying to engrave small letters (1/4") in Aluminum and having problems getting smooth cuts that don't have burrs. I need a very sharp but fine cutter, like 70-80 degree v-bit with about a .010 tip. Something that will cut chips rather than drag itself across and rough up the cut. Any suggestions?

Preferably something I can pick up local.

Thankyamuch!

Joa
PIW E&M

[Brian Howard]

Hi.
You could try some kerosine (we call it paraffin here in the UK)as a cutting lubricant. I think the problem is the aluminum chips are welding themselves to the clean work. The kerosine helps to prevent this.

Brian Howard

[densull@megsinet.net]

WD-40 works, too. I've used it when routing aluminum sheet.

[sutter@iinet.com]

A metalworkers trick for engraving is to use a small # 2 or # 3 center drill and turn it about 10,000 rpm. It works even better when lubricated as mentioned above. it is cheap and available at any really good hardware store.

Wayne

[pclscl@netup.cl]

"ROUT AND DRAG ENGRAVING" article (page 20)on The Engravers Journal, Aug.1999 issue, may answer some of your questions.
Bill