Hello,
I am new to posting here, but I need some help! I have a job to quote with a fast turn around time that is to be turned from 316 SS hex. I have had bad experiences with 316 in the past am am recluctant to take this job. Does anyone have any tips to offer on this material that would improve my tool life and overall accuracy. I am flooding with coolant, but what kind of cut depth should I use, and what feed rates? Is this a loser job and should I stay away from it?

You don't say what size hex and how much has to be turned off. If it is possible based on the size and rigidity of the material to machine off the entire hex in the first cut this can help with tool life. The only other thing is moderate speeds, DOC enough to get under the work hardened surface and feed the same. Rough figures could be 250 SFM, DOC not less than 0.04" and feed not less than 0.005".

Given the option I wuld pass but then I am a chicken heart when it comes to stainless.:D

It is 1.25" hex. Part is 1.574" long. There is a lot of detail and a threaded section. Then the bore has a few steps in it with a small chamfer ending up into a .50" pocket at the bottom. I have already told the customer I don't think I am interested in ths on. Too many variables and they want 200 pcs by 10-14 and I still need material.

gosh if i had the time i would knock these out for you. we do alot of stainless work and 316 isn't any worse than 321 or 304. insert grade is critical. get a special stainless grade insert. you can then run about 450-550 sfm. definitely get the speed up we run about .008 IPR through hex with no problems. depth of cut can vary. you have a short part and it won't stick out very far. i would take about .080 on the doc and knock those parts out.

What kind of inserts have you found to run best? My lead man in the shop thinks one type insert fits all. I know we can't have everything but also feel one for all is over simplistic.

for a godd job shop insert, try the tmx 3120 grade or the pc9030 for stainless