CNC Turning for Stainless Steel 316
316 stainless is the most challenging common stainless to turn. Its gummy nature and extreme work-hardening require aggressive parameters and premium tooling.
Recommended Machining Parameters
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Achievable Tolerances | ±0.02 mm (±0.0008") |
| Surface Finish | Ra 1.0-3.2 μm |
| Cutting Speed | 80-160 m/min |
| Feed Rate | 0.10-0.25 mm/rev |
| Tooling Recommendations | Premium carbide M25-M35 with nanocomposite coating. Wiper inserts for finishing. Consider whisker-reinforced ceramic for roughing. |
Expert Machining Tips
1
Higher feeds than 304 to overcome gummy nature
2
Never dwell or retract without feed
3
Premium inserts pay for themselves in tool life
4
Consider ceramic inserts for roughing
Common Parts Made
Marine shafts
Surgical instrument bodies
Chemical pump shafts
Pharmaceutical vessel nozzles
Offshore fittings
Machining Challenges
- Extreme gumminess
- Rapid tool wear
- Poor surface finish without optimal parameters
- Chip welding to insert