Alupanel

[jensen87]

I have been asked by a friend to cut some shapes from alupanel. Has anyone ever cut this? Its about 1/8th " thick....I would assume I can use a carbide 1/8th " end mill but am not sure what spindle speed or feed rate to go. Any help would be appreciated.

http://www.multipaneluk.com/products/sign-materials/alupanel/

[Rob Gunn]

Mike, I cut it all the time in both 1/8 and 1/4. I use a 1/4 endmill at 4 in/sec and 21000 rpm. Cuts like butter with no issue. Let us know how it goes for you.

[jensen87]

thanks Rob! I will try it on a scrap. upcut or downcut end mill ?

[Rob Gunn]

Up cut or down cut, I am not sure it maters unless you have issue with the sheet pulling up during cut so maybe a down cut would be best. I use a lot of off the shelf straight router bits from the big box stores, there cheap and I can go get one any time just down the road.:)

[GlenP]

Hey guys. I also cut allot of alupanel. I use a 2 flute endmill. It is neither up or down and gives a great cut. If I had to use either a up or down I would prefer a down as it would better cut result. I always cut about 90% thru the material and make one final pass 101% thru the alupanel. By doing this there is little side pressure on the cutter and you wont need as many tabs or hold down devices. Anyway it works for me. I use cheapee Kempston bits for it. $9 and after 10 sheets get a new one out.