1. Cleaning
After use, milling cutters should be cleaned promptly to remove any powder, particles, resin, and other debris left after milling. These residues can fix onto the tool and affect its next use or cause tool erosion. Use a dedicated cleaner or warm water to clean the surface and cutting edges of the milling cutter, then dry it with a cloth or air dryer. Avoid using cleaners with strong acidity or alkalinity as they may damage the tool surface.
2. Oil Application
Applying oil can effectively reduce wear on the milling cutter and lower its friction coefficient, while also providing rust prevention. Before use, wipe the tool surface clean and apply an appropriate amount of machine oil or rust-preventive oil evenly. Do not apply too much or too little. When the tool is not in use for an extended period, apply an additional layer of rust-preventive oil to prevent rust or spots from forming.
3. Storage
When storing milling cutters, take care to protect against moisture, dust, and corrosion to prevent the tool from being damaged. Do not place the milling cutter directly on hard objects as this may deform the cutting tip. Also, avoid storing it with other metal items as this may cause chemical reactions.
4. Avoid Improper Use
Never hit the end face or body of the milling cutter as this can disrupt the tool's dynamic balance and even lead to tool scrap. During use, avoid leaving the milling cutter stationary for too long or cutting at speeds that are too fast or too slow to maintain cutting efficiency and tool life.
5. Regular Inspection and Sharpening
Regularly inspect the cutting edges of the milling cutter for sharpness and any signs of wear or damage. Sharpen or replace them as needed. When grinding the teeth, pay attention to adjusting the grinding parameters such as grinding force, grinding speed, and grinding depth to avoid excessive grinding that may damage the tool.
6. Safety Precautions
When performing maintenance or replacing milling cutters, ensure that the power is turned off to prevent electric shock accidents. Wear suitable eye protection during operation to prevent flying debris from injuring the eyes. Ensure that your body, clothing, hair, and debris do not come into close contact with moving objects to prevent accidents.
This overview covers the essential aspects of daily maintenance for milling cutters, including cleaning, oil application, storage, avoiding improper use, regular inspection and sharpening, and safety precautions. By adhering to these maintenance practices, you can ensure the proper use of milling cutters and extend their service life.
Please note that this is a generalized overview and specific maintenance requirements may vary depending on the type and application of the milling cutter. Always consult the manufacturer's instructions for detailed guidance.
