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Old timer told me to run a 1/2 inch end mill at 800 SFM in 6061. Sounded crazy but I tried it.

He said the high speed would work if I kept the chip load light, like 0.003 per tooth. My machine is a 2015 Fadal. I ran it, and the finish was perfect, no chatter at all. But my lead hand says that's way too fast and will wear the spindle bearings. Who's right here? Has anyone else pushed speeds that high on older machines?
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3 Comments
harper_hart
How fast did you say that spindle was going?
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wesley_grant33
Was it even measured in RPM or just pure chaos?
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claire_fisher41
Your lead hand is right, that speed is asking for trouble on a Fadal...
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