How to Cut Aluminum with a CNC Router | CNC Basecamp Ep. 17

Can you machine aluminum with a CNC router? Absolutely! In Episode 17 of CNC Basecamp, Chris Fitch from Woodsmith Magazine shares the essential techniques for successfully cutting, milling, and finishing aluminum on a CNC router. Aluminum is one of the most versatile materials you can machine. It's lightweight, strong, corrosion resistant, and perfect for making brackets, jigs, shop tools, hardware, home décor, and custom project parts. With the right tooling, feeds and speeds, lubrication, and machining techniques, even hobby CNC routers can produce outstanding results. In this episode, you'll learn how to choose the right router bit, prevent broken cutters, reduce heat buildup, improve chip evacuation, and create smooth, professional-looking aluminum parts. Chris also demonstrates several finishing techniques, from a bright mirror polish to satin finishes and decorative patinas. Whether you're new to CNC machining or ready to expand beyond wood, this episode will give you the confidence to start milling aluminum safely and successfully. In this episode you'll learn: -How to cut aluminum on a CNC router -Choosing the best single-flute end mills for aluminum -Recommended feed rates and depth of cut -How lubrication improves cutter life and surface finish -Tips for clearing chips and preventing broken bits -Why shorter end mills produce cleaner cuts -How to polish aluminum to a mirror finish -Satin finishing techniques using Scotch-Brite -Applying decorative aluminum patinas -Project ideas using machined aluminum Aluminum opens up an entirely new world of CNC projects. Use it to make repair brackets, shop accessories, machine components, outdoor hardware, custom tools, fixtures, signs, and much more—all from your CNC router. Read the companion article and download the resources for this episode: https://www.woodsmith.com/article/epi... Build your own Shop-Built CNC Router: https://www.woodsmithplans.com/plan/c... Special thanks to our sponsor, Inventables! From side hustle to dream job, Inventables has everything you need to build, create, and grow with CNC—from machines and materials to software and an inspiring maker community. https://www.inventables.com/?utm_medi... Subscribe to Woodsmith Get woodworking plans, CNC projects, shop tips, expert techniques, and instructional videos delivered in print and online. https://www.woodsmith.com Follow Woodsmith Facebook:   / woodsmithmagazine   Website: https://www.woodsmith.com #CNC #Aluminum #CNCRouter #Metalworking #CNCMachining #Woodsmith #CNCTips #DIYMaker #Inventables #CNCBasecamp