Machining of Acid-Resistant Stainless Steel (CNC)
TOKAR CNC Technology specializes in precision machining. One of our key areas of expertise is the CNC machining of acid-resistant stainless steel, which, due to its properties and wide range of applications in various industries, is an essential part of our offerings.
What is Acid-Resistant Stainless Steel Machining
Machining acid-resistant stainless steel involves the precise removal of material layers using appropriately selected cutting tools. Due to the specific nature of this material, advanced technologies and techniques are required. Maintaining the correct cutting parameters, such as rotational speed, cutting depth, and feed rate, is crucial to prevent excessive tool wear and achieve the highest surface quality. The machining process is most often performed using CNC machines, which ensure high precision and repeatability. During machining, it is also necessary to use appropriate cooling and lubricating fluids to minimize friction and dissipate the heat generated during the process.
Machinability of Stainless Steel
Characteristics of Stainless Steel
Stainless steel, especially austenitic stainless steel, is challenging to machine due to its hardness, low thermal conductivity, and tendency to adhere to tools. For these reasons, machining stainless steel requires specialized knowledge and experience, which we possess.
Types of Stainless Steel
Austenitic Steel
Austenitic steels are the most popular type of stainless steel, accounting for about 70% of production. They are characterized by high corrosion resistance and good machinability. Examples include: 1.4301 (18/10 steel), 1.4305, 1.4401.
Ferritic Steel
Ferritic steels have higher thermal conductivity and lower work hardening compared to austenitic steels. They are less prone to deformation and have good corrosion resistance. Examples include: 1.4000, 1.4016, 1.4510.
Martensitic Steel
Martensitic steels are harder and more wear-resistant but have lower corrosion resistance. They are often used in cutting tools and components requiring high hardness. Examples include: 1.4006, 1.4021, 1.4034.
Duplex Steel
Ferritic-austenitic (duplex) steels combine the characteristics of ferritic and austenitic steels, offering high corrosion resistance and good mechanical strength. They have a dual-phase structure and are difficult to machine due to hard chips. Examples include: 1.4362, 1.4462.
Machining Techniques
Turning
Turning stainless steel requires the use of carbide tools, which are resistant to high temperatures and wear. We perform the turning process at high rotational speeds to minimize the risk of material adhering to the blade and micro-damage formation.
Milling
During milling of stainless steel, we use various machining strategies, including roughing and finishing. To avoid thermal cracks, rough milling is done dry, while finishing uses cooling and lubricating fluids. Cutting depth and feed are optimized to minimize the risk of notching.
Drilling and Tapping
For drilling and tapping stainless steel, we use high-speed steel tools that provide adequate sharpness and durability. Regular tool replacement and sharpening are crucial to maintain high machining quality.
Challenges in Machining Stainless Steel
Heat Generation
Stainless steel has low thermal conductivity, leading to heat concentration in the cutting zone. To counteract this, we use appropriate cooling measures to minimize friction and tool wear.
Tool Wear
Increased tool wear during stainless steel machining requires the use of tools with high hardness and wear resistance. We use tools with protective coatings, such as titanium carbonitride, aluminum oxide, or titanium carbide.
Chips
Machining stainless steel produces long and difficult-to-break chips. To counter chip issues, we use tools with positive cutting edge geometry and techniques for machining under a work-hardened layer.
Applications of Stainless Steel
Food and Chemical Industry
Acid-resistant steel is often used in the food and chemical industries due to its corrosion resistance and ease of cleanliness. We machine machine parts and equipment used in these industries, ensuring the highest quality and precision.
Medical Industry
In the medical industry, stainless steel is used to produce surgical instruments and implants. With our advanced CNC machining technologies, we meet the highest quality standards required in this field.
Automotive and Automation
Stainless steel is also used in the automotive and automation industries, where high strength and corrosion resistance are required. We machine parts and components that meet strict technical and quality requirements.
Why Choose TOKAR CNC Technology?
Experience and Professionalism
We have many years of experience in machining stainless steel. Our team consists of qualified specialists with the necessary knowledge and skills.
Modern Technologies
We invest in modern machines and tools, allowing us to carry out even the most complex projects with the highest precision and efficiency.
Individual Approach
We treat each order individually, tailoring our services to the specific needs and requirements of clients. We guarantee timeliness and full commitment at every stage of the project.
Contact Us
If you need professional machining of acid-resistant stainless steel, please contact us. We will be happy to answer all your questions and prepare an offer tailored to your needs.