different approach.

Basics of High Feed Milling

As more and more machine shops today are getting armed with tools capable of high speed CNC machining with sophisticated CAM software, high feed milling (HFM) is slowly emerging as an indispensable method for the quick removal of considerable amounts of materials. HFM is a roughing strategy specifically intended to enhance productivity and reduce machining time by increasing the metal removal rate. This involves the use of smaller cut depths (2 mm or less) that results to a thinner chip that takes the heat off the cutting edge.

Likewise, the Seco high-speed cutters run enhanced feed per tooth, producing a feed rate as much as 5 times than that of traditional milling methods. The reduced heat generated not only extends the productive life of the tool, but it also offers a higher rate of metal removal than what is normal or approximately 1000+ per minute which is 200 to 300% quicker than traditional milling. This means much better throughput or production efficiency that produces a significant amount of work in a relatively short period.

This is possible because HFM is able to take advantage of the relatively smaller angle settings (no more than 45º). Cutting forces with minimal radial and maximum axial rakes are generated this way. Just like the plunging method, the axial direction of the cutting forces is geared towards the machine spindle. This significantly stabilizes the machining process with less risk for vibrations. Higher cutting parameters are therefore achieved even when working with large overhangs, but unlike in plunge milling, the tool is engage constantly in high feed milling.

Another time saving feature of the Seco high-speed cutters for HFM is the limited number of operations. For one, semi-finishing work can normally be dispensed with, thus simplifying NC programming requirements. This is possible because high feed roughing involves small depth of cut that generates an almost-perfect net shape that is in most cases very close to the requested final form. In addition, the high feed method does not necessitate an increase in the machine’s rotational speed.