Struggling with Tool Wear?

PUBLISHED by EYE ON DESIGN

When it comes to CNC machining, cutting small shapes presents a unique challenge. The precision required to cut these shapes is only half the battle; ensuring they stay in place during the process is equally critical. Movement during cutting can ruin the final product, waste materials, and lead to machine downtime. So, how can you successfully cut small shapes without them moving? Let’s explore the solutions.

1. Heat Management – Keeping Tools Cooler for Longer

Excessive heat is a major cause of premature tool failure, especially when cutting aluminium and ACM. High cutting speeds generate intense temperatures, which can lead to chip welding, edge dulling, and tool breakage.

DLC coatings create a heat-resistant barrier, directing heat into the chips and away from the tool, ensuring:

Higher cutting speeds without overheating

Longer tool life between changes

Cleaner, more precise cuts

With superior heat resistance, DLC-coated tools maintain sharpness longer, reducing the need for frequent tool changes.

2. Smoother Cutting – Less Friction, More Efficiency

Friction is the enemy of precision cutting, especially in aluminium machining. DLC coatings reduce friction, preventing material from sticking to the tool and causing poor surface finishes.

Prevents chip welding, a common issue with aluminium
Improves chip evacuation, reducing tool clogging
Enhances tool life, even in high-speed machining

For ACM, aluminium, and non-ferrous metals, DLC-coated tools ensure clean, efficient cuts with minimal downtime.

3. Superior Wear Resistance – Perfect for Abrasive Materials

Working with composites, ACM, or high-wear materials? DLC coatings provide extreme hardness, making tools resistant to premature wear.

Extends tool lifespan when cutting abrasive materials

Maintains edge sharpness for consistent performance

Reduces tool breakage and costly downtime

Smoother Cutting – Less Friction, More Efficiency

What About Acrylics and Plastics?

For acrylic and plastics, uncoated, polished single-flute cutters (like the CP Single Flute range) are the best choice. These tools:

Reduce heat buildup to prevent melting
Provide a polished edge without additional finishing
Optimise chip evacuation for cleaner cuts

If you’re cutting acrylic, polycarbonate, or foam PVC use the right single-flute tooling for a flawless, crystal-clear edge.

Get the Right CNC Tooling for the Job

Using the wrong coating can lead to poor results, increased wear, and wasted material. Whether you need DLC-coated tools for aluminium and ACM or polished single-flute cutters for plastics and acrylics, we have the perfect solution for your CNC router.

At Complete CNC Solutions, we supply high-performance CNC tooling for precision cutting across various materials.

Find the right tools for your CNC projects today.

Explore our premium CNC tooling range or contact us for expert advice on the best solutions for your materials.