Machining Duraspin®

Turning
Depth of Cut Speed Feet / Min Feed In./Rev
0.025"
in deep cut		 300-800 0.004-0.025
When cutting off, it may be necessary to chamfer the ID before cutting to prevent the material from chipping out
 
Drilling
Nominal Hole Feed
Diameter In./Rev
0.062" 0.007-0.015
0.125" 0.007-0.015
0.250" 0.007-0.015
0.500" 0.015-0.025
0.750" 0.015-0.025
1.00" 0.020-0.050
1.50" 0.020-0.050
2.00" and greater 0.020-0.050

Duraspin is available as “close to size” blanks, reducing the cost of finish machining and minimizing material waste. Duraspin is machined using techniques similar to those used for metals. However, because Duraspin is very abrasive to standard and high speed tools, it is recommended that carbide tipped tools or, preferably diamond tipped insert cutting tools are used. Diamond tipped tools typically outlast carbide tools and provide an economic advantage.

When machining Duraspin® roller tools remember . . .

  • Thermal expansion is approximately 3 times greater than steel
  • Plastics lose heat much more slowly than metals
  • Plastics operating temperatures are typically much lower than metals
  • Plastics are more elastic than metals

WARNING

Because of plastic's inherent differences, you may wish to experiment with tool materials, angles, speeds and feeds to obtain optimum results.

Other machining tips

  • Thin sections and sharp corners must be worked with care to prevent breakage and chipping
  • Positive tool geometries with ground peripheries are recommended
  • Carbide or diamond-tipped tooling with polished top surfaces should be used
  • Use adequate chip clearances to prevent clogging
  • Properly support the material to prevent it from springing away from the cutting tool

Coolants

  • Coolants are typically not required, but may be used for optimum finished or close tolerances
  • If coolants are used, a spray mist of water soluble oil is recommended
  • Pressurized air or vacuum is commonly used for chip removal and as a light coolant