The shell type multi insert carbide face mills are great but do require a bit of HP to be used well since depending on the width of cut you may have several cutting forces being applied at the same time by the multiple cutters. They make some smaller ones that are not indexable inserts but just a solid cutter with multiple cutters. There is a term that is eluding my memory right now that describes tool deflection where the tool is being deflected along the cut and has to be allowed time at the end to adjust itself and overcome the cutting forces causing the defelction to finish the cut cleanly. UGhhh its on the tip of my tongue just not coming out.
I used the 8 insert shell face mills on Bridgeports and they were nice for squaring up stock quickly. I have yet to try fly cutting on my Sherline but will give it a go soon.
Good luck,
Bo |