What's the Best Process for Machining a Precise Hole in Aluminum?
This small hole is actually large enough that any of three different processes might be used.
Share
Read Next
Question
How can I achieve 0.0025-mm tolerance on an internal diameter of 4.5 mm? The material is aluminum alloy. What machine or process should I use?
Response from John Bradford, micromachining R&D team leader for Makino
This feature and machining tolerance are achievable using one of several techniques. They are:
1. Precision boring -- using vertical or horizontal spindle, with a boring tool
2. Helical interpolation -- using an insert cutter, or coated carbide end mill. This is the preferred method for fastest machining speed. Repeatability of 0.001 mm is possible.
3. Wire EDM. This provides repeatability of size and straightness of 0.001 mm or less if required. This is a slower process, but machining variables are simple to control. (Of course, EDM assumes the hole passes completely through the part.)
Related Content
-
A History of Precision: The Invention and Evolution of Swiss-Style Machining
In the late 1800s, a new technology — Swiss-type machines — emerged to serve Switzerland’s growing watchmaking industry. Today, Swiss-machined parts are ubiquitous, and there’s a good reason for that: No other machining technology can produce tiny, complex components more efficiently or at higher quality.
-
3 Tips to Accelerate Production on Swiss Lathes with Micro Tools
Low RPM lathes can cause tool breakage and prevent you from achieving proper SFM, but live tooling can provide an economical solution for these problems that can accelerate production.
-
Where Micro-Laser Machining Is the Focus
A company that was once a consulting firm has become a successful micro-laser machine shop producing complex parts and features that most traditional CNC shops cannot machine.
