Kristi B-52 flycutter feeds and speeds.

[TXFred]

I've got an 8" B-52 flycutter, made by Kristi Tool Ordnance, here in the shop. I haven't used it yet, but am about to do so on a steel cutting job.

Kristi Tool's website claims are that their flycutters can be run much faster than a shell mill. But they don't say how fast. I emailed them asking about feeds and speeds, and they were unable to tell me how fast to run their tool.

I'd like to hear from owners of this tool. How fast do you run your B-52, and at what feedrate and depth of cut? I'm cutting steel, but would like to hear information for aluminum as well.

Frederic

[djr76]

I would just return the tool if they cant give you technical references on their own product. seriously wtf...If anything, Id go with a machinist handbook recommendation for tool/part material sfm as a starting point. Thing is, aren't those single insert tools? feed rate is going to be major hindrance unless you are just doing a few parts, otherwise Id go with a multi inserted shell design from Kennametal if in a production environment doing large lots.