Re: beginner needs advice
The main reason the MDX-40 isn't recommended for cutting metals is its open frame with sliding parts underneath, which isn't designed for handling chips. It's also not set up to handle coolant and lubricant. Metal chips have a way of lodging and compacting that will stop your machine from working. So if you're planning to use this machine for metal, spread out plastic underneath to catch any chips before they get any further. Unfortunately, the MDX-40 has a door interlock which will shut down the machine when you try to get in there to brush away chips or spray lubricant. both of which are good to do in a metal-machining process. The spindle, which is high-speed but low-torque, is also not ideal for metal cutting. It will do best with very small cutters; not so well with larger ones. Zinc is a "sticky" metal; it's not great for machining. Aluminum works better, but make sure you get a hardened alloy, like 6061 T6; softer isn't really better, since the pure un-hardened aluminum alloys tend to stick to the cutters. If you want a gold-colored alloy, try a free-machining brass.
Alternatively, you might save the Roland for wood and plastics, and get another machine, like a Taig mill for example, to deal with your metal projects.
Re: beginner needs advice
I really appreciate the advice but unfortunately another machine at this point isnt possible. .assuming i follow your suggestions (because i plan on it) what is your thought about the broken bit problem iv been warned about?..the pieces im looking to mill are very small, like large button sized but with intricate details like jewelry. .im mainly looking to mill embelishments like small custom metal medalions with milled logos so the lettering will require small cutters that im told will break with metal...is this true? I will certainly use the mill for wood and plastic whenever possible and im thinking i can achieve a similar outcome by perhaps milling a type of plastic with a high high heat tolorance to be used as a mold and poaring molten zinc into this mold in order to create what i want..im also told there is a type of plastic impregnated with metal powder that can be milled easier and have the look of metal...anyway..i hope you guys understand what im looking to achieve and i would appreciate any ideas of suggestions you may have in order for me to accomplish this with an mdx40a because thats all i have at the moment..no budget for a second machine im afraid.ill try and post pictures of examples id like to mill if you dont know what im talking about but its basically custom metal zippers and clasps that have milled logos or made into custom shapes
Re: beginner needs advice
Hi I tried 3 mm mill on an Steel capable mill it Works but they break often ..
I now Try 3d print the Form to use it as löst Form probably that is a Route for you aß well ..
May get it printed an Try a juvelery Ofen in Alu or other Metall