Nickel is generally classified as moderate to difficult to machine
Nickel based alloys share similar characteristics, such as being both corrosion and high temperature resistant. Nickel 200/201 is thus used for example in chemical processing and storage, synthetic fiber production, and processes where sodium hydroxide and fluoride flourish. These attributes, however, have also led nickel machining to be generally classified as moderate to difficult to perform by conventional product methods.
Nickel Machining Services
At Rickard Metals we have 30 years of experience overseeing nickel and other custom machining services and can offer advice and guidance on the toughest of machining issues. Our custom nickel machining services include:
How to Machine Nickel
Due to high shear strength, Nickel generates high heat during cutting, causing it to harden rapidly, creating gummy and weld to the cutting tool surface. The key to machining nickel alloys is to follow the mill recommended guidelines closely. Here are some additional factors to consider with nickel machining:
- Boring – Nickel alloys can be face-turned and bored rather easily. Factors to consider are feed, depth-of-cut and tooling. Drilling large holes and tapping takes robust machinery with power.
- Tooling – Tooling can be a nightmare. Tools tend to dull rather quickly. C grade inserts should be used and lubricants/cooling are essential. Due to the heat and work hardening nature of these alloys, cooling the surface is key for successful results. The results vary from shop to shop, however, as a general rule vegetable oil based fluids in CNC equipment and engine lathes are recommended.
- Drilling – For tapping and drilling operations, especially larger boreholes, heavy duty, light viscosity petroleum cutting oil works best. When using insert drills in CNC machines use the same speeds (SFM) for facing, turning, and boring. Feed rates should be .002” per revolution. Additionally, when twist bits are used cobalt drills are preferred.