Need Help!- Cutting magnesium

[louieatienza]

Hey guys! I posted this in the DIY router section, but maybe this would be a better place...

"OK.... I've done a bit of research on the subject and came up with the following:

1- easily machined, though lower feedrates should be used
2- should NOT use water for coolant; mineral oil is best
3- swarf is HIGHLY flammable
4- dry sand should be kept nearby in case of fire

Is there any other percautions? Also:

1- What's the best way to dispose of swarf (especially if it's contaminated with mineral oil?)
2- Is using dust collection safe (i.e. static charge igniting swarf/dust?)

Thanks in advance, Louie"

Please keep in mind I'm using a home-made CNC router with a router for a spindle. Any help appreciated!

[ckelloug]

My opinion would be "Just Say No".

Router speed is something like 20,000 rpms. Needed speed is probably in the hundreds of rpms. A magnesium fire is probably likely in this case. If you really want to try, make sure to have a class D fire extinguisher on hand as I'd predict a minor disaster.

Good luck.

[RICHARD ZASTROW]

Having dealt with small magnesium fires, I will not machine any magnesium period.

Dick Z