cutters for ferrous or non ferrous materials

[drafting3]

i understand the difference between ferrous and non ferrous, but why are certain cutters specified for materials that are either ferrous or non ferrous? it seems to me that carbide should cut through both pretty easily.

 

i have 3/4" ball end carbide inserts that state they are for non ferrous material. can i still use these inserts for ferrous material? something i should know?

[gcode]

there are many factors that affect the performance of an endmill

the number of flutes

the grind if the cutting edge

the helix of the flutes and cutting edges.

the depth of the flutes and the stiffness in the remaining web of the endmill

 

for example ... if you take a carbide endmill design for tough steels or stainless steels

and drive it at correct feeds and speeds in aluminum, you will probably pack the flutes with chips and

break it.

 

with insert mills, the main difference is the sharpness and rake of the cutting edge.

[drafting3]

thanks. i figured it was something to do with the geometry.

 

i'm only going to be cutting some 1018, so i might just run it through to see what happens. i'm very familiar with the location of the E-stop.

[jeff]

Coating has alot to do with it also, a bright finish 3 flute carbide endmill will eat aluminum like butter,but won't do crap in steel.