Fluxtrol materials are composites of metal powder and plastic binders, and their machinability falls between plastics and metals. Ferrotron 559H is closer to plastics, while Fluxtrol A and 100 are more like light metals, although more brittle. Different grades call for different technique to get the best results.
Material behavior to plan for
- Strong in compression, with less strength in tension or bending loads. Design parts so that machining and assembly loads stay compressive where possible.
- Anisotropic pressed grades. Orientation of the stock plate can matter in critical cases, and all Fluxtrol machinable materials are anisotropic to a degree.
- Brittle to varying degrees. Fluxtrol 100 machines well when sharp tools and high spindle speeds are used.
Machining methods
General machining practice applies for each operation: blade and band saw cutting, milling, turning, drilling and grinding. CNC machining is recommended. Water jet cutting is effective for 2D parts when the shape allows.
Practical guidance
- Use sharp standard tools or coated carbide. Carbide is best, and high speed steel works well.
- Use higher speed and slower feed than for soft steel.
- Use multiple passes for thin-wall parts. With experience, wall thicknesses under 1 mm can be turned or milled.
- Support drilled parts firmly, for example on a wooden or plastic block, to avoid chipping, and use pilot holes for large bores.
- Cooling or lubricating fluids are not necessary.
- Establish optimal regimes on sample material before producing multiple parts.
- Brass or stainless steel inserts give the strongest threaded connections. See assembly for insert installation.
Machined surfaces carry a smeared layer that can conduct electricity and rust. Etching removes it, as described on the protection page .
Video demonstrations
Fluxtrol recorded machining demonstrations on each process.
Safety first
Chips are not hazardous, but friction sparks can ignite accumulated dust. Read Machining Safety & Fire Precautions before cutting.
Questions about a part?
Contact Fluxtrol for machining advice or to order material through the SMC order form .