Aluminum machining
Post Reply   Forum
Posted by: chikky ®
Tweety Bird
04/27/2006, 02:05:25

Author Profile eMail author Edit

We manufacture alu sand cast parts in A356 alloy. We machine these parts with standard NPSM and NPT (1/2" thru 2") HSS taps. WE have regular problem of material built-up on the taps and the poor finish of the threads.
I need help in finding the solution to resolve these issues. Can different tap other than the standard ones can help? Or using some specific cutting oil??







Post Reply | Recommend Email | Alert Administrator View All   | Next |

Replies to this message


Re: Aluminum machining
Re: Aluminum machining -- chikky Post Reply Top of thread Forum
Posted by: rjbeng ®

04/27/2006, 09:27:16

Author Profile eMail author Edit

There are a couple of ways to address this problem.

1) Use coated taps to reduce the galling. See article in Cutting Tool Engineering https://www.ctemag.com/pdf/0301-slipperywhenblue.pdf. There are other coatings that address this same issue, you may want to test drive different types to get the best results.
2) Thread mill in lieu of tapping. This will dramatically reduce the friction and spinal loading associated with tapping. Your threads will be cleaner and more consistent. This will also remove any material damage caused by galling.








Post Reply | Recommend Email | Alert Administrator Where am I? Original Top of thread | |
Re: Re: Aluminum machining
Re: Re: Aluminum machining -- rjbeng Post Reply Top of thread Forum
Posted by: randykimball ®
Barney
04/27/2006, 15:10:35

Author Profile eMail author Edit

We used a product called TapMagic for aluminum.. I'm sure there are several brands out there that are about the same thing. AND.. on sand castings, I remember good results using Crisco mixed with kerosine, brushed on with an acid brush. Use just enough kersoine to make the Crisco turn into a gravy when mixed. If you purchase the acid brushes by the peck (144) you can get them pennies each.




The worst suggestion of your lifetime may be the catalyst to the grandest idea of the century, never let suggestions go unsaid nor fail to listen to them.


Post Reply | Recommend Email | Alert Administrator Where am I? Original Top of thread

Powered by Engineers Edge

© Copyright 2000 - 2024, by Engineers Edge, LLC All rights reserved.  Disclaimer