Chip load and cutting depth.

[SCCoupe]

Trying to calculate what IPM I should be cutting aluminum at and need to better understand what chip load is. It this a factor based on the end mill used or is it something I determine based on how bit "I" want the chips. If its up to me, what does the chip load need to be for aluminum? I assume this has to be much smaller for steel?

Cutting speed and depth. How do I know how deep I can cut on each pass. If I calculate that I need to cut aluminum at say 40IPM with an 1/8th inch bit, I know that I cannot take 1/2 inch of depth at a time. Is there a calculation for this?

Thanks again!

[ger21]

Chip load varies from tool to tool. The tool manufacturer should be able to give you a recommended range. As for depth of cut, probably not more than the tool diameter per pass, maybe even less.

[SCCoupe]

Is there any kind of standard guidelines to go by on the chip load. These are Ebay bits from China so my guess is that that info isnt available.

Thanks.

[ger21]

Download the catalog for aluminum tooling from www.onsrud.com and find something similar, and use that. Chip load charts are in the back of the catalog.