Machining Carbon-Filled PEEK (30% CF): Speeds & Feeds, Tooling & Best Practices

Technical machining guide for Carbon-Filled PEEK (30% CF) (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastic): optimal cutting speeds (80 - 180 m/min), feeds (0.06 - 0.15 mm/tooth), hardness (90 Shore D), and precision manufacturing practices.

Engineering Specifications & Parameters

Chip Load (fz) 0.06 - 0.15 mm/tooth
Material Grade Carbon-Filled PEEK (30% CF)
Material Hardness 90 Shore D
Cutting Speed (Vc) 80 - 180 m/min
Alloy Classification Carbon Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastic
Primary Applications High-temperature aerospace bushing brackets, semiconductor w...

Material Properties & Machinability Profile

Carbon-Filled PEEK (30% CF) is classified as a Carbon Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastic widely specified for mission-critical components requiring High-temperature aerospace bushing brackets, semiconductor wafer carriers, and downhole bearing cages..

Engineering Kinematics & Cutting Parameters

  • Material Hardness: 90 Shore D.
  • Recommended Cutting Speed ($V_c$): 80 - 180 m/min with dedicated substrate coatings.
  • Chip Load ($f_z$): Maintained between 0.06 - 0.15 mm/tooth to prevent tool rubbing or excessive mechanical shock.
  • Machinability Challenge: Abrasive chopped carbon fibers cause severe abrasive edge blunting; requires PCD (polycrystalline diamond) tipped tooling.
  • Tooling Strategy: Employs high-pressure flood coolant (>= 30 bar) and micro-grain carbide or specialized inserts with positive rake geometries.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What cutting speed is recommended for Carbon-Filled PEEK (30% CF)?

Optimal cutting speeds range from 80 - 180 m/min depending on roughing vs finishing passes and machine tool rigidity.

How does UCAN ROBOT manage tool wear when cutting Carbon-Filled PEEK (30% CF)?

We implement in-process tool monitoring, rigid toolholder systems, and high-pressure through-spindle coolant to dissipate cutting heat immediately.