Stainless steel CNC machining is a common metalworking method, but due to the high hardness and corrosion resistance of stainless steel, it places higher demands on machining equipment and tools. This article will introduce the characteristics of stainless steel CNC machining and provide advice on selecting the appropriate milling cutter.

I. Characteristics of Stainless Steel CNC Machining

High Hardness: Stainless steel generally has a high hardness, which requires high wear resistance from cutting tools.

High Toughness: Stainless steel’s high toughness makes it prone to chipping during CNC machining, requiring appropriate cutting parameters and reasonable tool design.

High Corrosion: Stainless steel is highly corrosive, which can easily cause corrosion and wear to cutting tools. Therefore, choosing corrosion-resistant cutting tools is crucial.

II. Milling Cutters Selection

Tool Material: Stainless steel CNC machining is suitable for tool materials with high hardness and wear resistance, such as coated carbide tools and PVD-coated tools. These tools can effectively extend tool life and maintain excellent cutting performance.

Tool Geometry: For stainless steel CNC machining, tools with large rake and relief angles are generally selected to effectively reduce cutting forces and friction, and lower temperatures during machining.

Tool Coating: Coatings play a key role in tool life and cutting performance. Common coatings include TiN, TiCN, and AlTiN. These coatings reduce friction and prevent tool sticking, thermal cracking, and other issues.

Cutting Parameters: Selecting appropriate cutting parameters is also crucial in stainless steel CNC machining. Proper feed rate, depth of cut, and cutting speed ensure tool life and machining quality.

Stainless steel CNC machining requires skill and experience, and selecting the right tool is crucial for improving machining efficiency and quality. For stainless steel CNC machining, it is recommended to select tool materials with high hardness and wear resistance, appropriate tool geometry, and coatings, and to adjust the cutting parameters accordingly to achieve optimal results.

If you have future stainless steel CNC machining projects, please send your drawings to this email address for a quote: info1@us.cjcncmachining.com