CNC milling of plastic: speeds, feeds and common mistakes
We work daily with plastic and know how important it is to have the right tools and knowledge to successfully mill plastic. One of the most important factors in CNC milling of plastic is speed and feed. If the speed is too high the plastic can melt, while a speed that is too low can result in a poor surface.
A question we often get is: What speed and feed should I use for my specific plastic? It is a good question, since different plastics require different speeds and feeds to be milled successfully.
Speeds and feeds for different materials
We offer a wide range of plastics, and each plastic has its own unique properties. For example, PE-HD requires a higher speed than PA6G to avoid melting. A general rule is to use a speed of 10 000-20 000 revolutions per minute for PE-HD, while PA6G requires a speed of 5 000-10 000 revolutions per minute.
When it comes to feed it is important to have the right balance between speed and feed. A feed that is too high can result in a poor surface, while a feed that is too low can result in a slow process. A general rule is to use a feed of 0.1-0.5 mm per revolution for PE-HD, while PA6G requires a feed of 0.05-0.2 mm per revolution.
Tool selection: single flute or multiple flutes
Tool selection is another important factor in CNC milling of plastic. Single flute or multiple flutes? It depends on the plastic and application. Single flute is often better for PE-HD and PE-UHMW, while multiple flutes are better for PA6G and POM-C.
A question we often get is: Why is single flute better for some plastics? It is because single flute provides a better surface and less risk of melting. But for other plastics, such as PA6G and POM-C, multiple flutes are better because they provide a higher speed and better capacity.
Chip removal and cooling
Chip removal and cooling are important factors in CNC milling of plastic. If the chips are not removed properly they can cause problems with the surface and melting. We recommend using air cooling or mist cooling to cool the plastic and remove the chips.
Air cooling is often better for PE-HD and PE-UHMW, while mist cooling is better for PA6G and POM-C. But what is the difference between air cooling and mist cooling? Air cooling uses an air stream to cool the plastic, while mist cooling uses a water-based solution to cool the plastic.
Common mistakes and solutions
There are many common mistakes that can be made when CNC milling plastic. One of the most common mistakes is to use a speed or feed that is too high, which can result in melting or a poor surface. Another common mistake is to not use the right tool or cooling, which can result in a slow process or a poor surface.
A question we often get is: How can I avoid melting and poor surface? It is a good question, since melting and poor surface are two of the most common problems when CNC milling plastic. To avoid melting and poor surface you should use the right speed and feed, the right tool and cooling, and make sure the chips are removed properly.
If you have any questions or need help with your CNC milling project you can always contact us. We have long experience of working with plastic and can help you with your needs at PlastShop.
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