Published 8/13/2008

End Mill Comparisons in CFRP, Part 3 - Conventional PCD Tool

Video shows the performance of coated carbide, diamond-coated, PCD and veined PCD tools in carbon fiber reinforced plastic. Part three in a four-part series.

Edited by: MMS Editorial Team

Loading the player ...

Smith MegaDiamond Inc. and Star Cutter Company compared the performance of various end mills in carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP). The tools tested included a coated carbide end mill, a diamond-coated end mill, a conventional PCD end mill with straight flutes, and a “veined” PCD end mill featuring a vein of PCD within a helical slot in a carbide tool body.

The table below summarizes the test parameters. Shown here is the video of a straight-flute segmented PCD tool. Jeff Michael, engineering manager for Star Cutter, comments, “Notice the sound includes pounding. This is the effect of the cutter loading and unloading because of the straight flutes. Also, there are uncut fibers because of the lack of shearing geometry.”

To see the next video in this testing, click here.

	Tool Type
Ø .500 in.	Solid Carbide	CVD Diamond	PCD	Veined PCD
Flute angle	30° helical	10° helical	7° skew	30° helical
Spindle speed (rpm)	3,000	4,600	12,000	18,000
Chip load (in./tooth)	0.0035	0.0035	0.001	0.0065
Machine advance (in./min.)	42	64	36	470
Radial depth (in.)	.050	.050	.050	.050

Cutting speeds and feed rates were recommended parameters from each tool’s manufacturer.

Editor’s note: To read the next part in the series, click here.

Related Content

How a Custom ERP System Drives Automation in Large-Format Machining

Part of Major Tool’s 52,000 square-foot building expansion includes the installation of this new Waldrich Coburg Taurus 30 vertical machining center.
5 Tips for Running a Profitable Aerospace Shop

Aerospace machining is a demanding and competitive sector of manufacturing, but this shop demonstrates five ways to find aerospace success.
Bavius Technologie Appoints New President, Schedules Technology Showcase

Roy D. Cripps will lead the team at Bavius as it aims to expand its current business in aerospace structures and develop new market segments. Additionally, the company will showcase its technology during an open house event on June 11.