Aluminum help

[camm]

I have a 2x4 buddy with spindle and would like to start cutting flat stock aluminum. I'm hopping someone can point me in the right area to find out how to do this, or give me some advice on how to do this type of work.

thank you.

[bleeth]

Lot's of info on cutting aluminum already on the forum. Try "cutting aluminum" in search. Basically, use the right bit (o-flute upcut is reccomended-Centurian or Onsrud hold up well), cut slowly, plunge slowly, shallow passes, and ramp in. Different grades cut easier than others. Some lube or directed compressed air helps but some don't use any. Thickness of material is part of the equation.
I'll do 1/4" with a 1/4" bit in 2 or 3 passes at 1ips. Some of our cowboys go a lot deeper with a heavier bit but I'm usually doing letter inlays if I'm cutting aluminum so I don't want a large readius.
Hold it down very well!