MAXMAKE CNC Blog

🛠️ Project Overview

• Project Name Geometric Stepped Aluminum Ashtray
• Equipment HiMill D1S Desktop CNC
• Core Challenge Aluminum pocket milling + Chamfer finish quality
• Finished Features Heavy feel, Heat resistant, Easy to clean, Minimalist
• Difficulty ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Requires metal parameters & cooling skills)
• Processing Time Approx. 48 Hours
• Main Material 6061-T6 Aluminum Block [e.g., 200x200x25mm]

📋 1. Preparation

Achieving a mirror-like chamfer starts with the right tooling. Selecting the correct bits is the top priority for this project.

🧰 Hardware & Materials (BOM)

• Aluminum: 6061-T6 block. Excellent machinability with chips that break easily, perfect for CNC machining.
• Coolant/Lubrication: Industrial alcohol or cutting fluid (Must be sprayed throughout the process to prevent chip welding).
• Workholding: Precision Vise or Clamping Kit. Tip: If using clamps, ensure they clear the tool path.

⚙️ Recommended Tooling (The Aluminum Trio)

1. Roughing Mainstay: 3.175mm 3-Flute Spiral End Mill for metal.
   • Key Point: Choose a tool with large flutes! Aluminum chips are bulky; if not cleared, the tool will break.
2. Chamfering: 2.5mm Ball Nose End Mill (Metal Processing Grade).

💻 2. Design & CAM Strategy

Step 2.1: Geometric Design

• Stepped Structure: I designed progressive interior steps, not only for aesthetics but also for convenient cigarette placement.
• Slot Design: Two U-shaped or V-shaped slots positioned diagonally.
• Chamfers: All edges feature a [0.5mm] chamfer. This is the secret to a "refined feel" and prevents sharp corners.

Step 2.2: CAM Parameters (HiMill D1S Aluminum Milling Secrets)

Milling aluminum is about: "High RPM, Shallow DOC (Depth of Cut), Fast Feed."

1. Adaptive Clearing (Roughing):
   • Tool: 3.175mm 3-Flute Spiral End Mill (Metal Specific)
   • Speed: 13,000 RPM
   • Stepdown: [0.2mm - 0.5mm] (Adjust based on machine load)
   • Feed Rate: 200 mm/min
2. Finishing (Floor & Walls):
   • Stock to Leave: Leave 0.1mm during roughing for final removal.
   • Tool: 2.5mm Ball Nose (Metal Specific)
   • Depth: 0.1mm
   • Feed Rate: Slightly slower to ensure a mirror-like finish.

⚙️ 3. The Machining Process

Accompanied by the crisp sound of cutting, silvery aluminum chips fly like a fountain.

1. Pocket Roughing: The machine clears the bulk material layer by layer, and the stepped shape emerges.
   • Note: Frequently spray alcohol and use an air gun to clear chips from deep pockets to avoid **re-cutting**.
2. Surface Finishing: The sound pitch lightens as the surfaces become flat and smooth.
3. Slot Milling: Cutting the cigarette rests into the side walls.
4. Chamfering: The final touch. The tool outlines a bright silver border, instantly making the design pop.

🎨 4. Post-Processing: Achieving the Matte Look

Freshly machined aluminum looks bright but is prone to scratches. To achieve that "Matte/Frosted" look, we use:

• Option A (Sandblasting - Recommended): Use glass beads for a uniform finish. This creates a high-end "MacBook-style" frosted texture instantly.
• Option B (Manual Brushing/Stonewashing): Use a **Scotch-Brite** pad or 400-grit sandpaper with water for a brushed look. Alternatively, use a vibratory tumbler for a rugged "stonewashed" vintage effect.

🎉 5. Final Result & Summary

On the desk, it’s a functional ashtray; when not in use, it doubles as a minimalist paperweight or EDC tray.

HiMill D1S Performance Summary:

• Rigidity: Even with high material removal, the spindle remains stable with excellent wall verticality.
• Surface Finish: With proper parameters and alcohol cooling, this desktop machine can achieve "no-sanding-required" mirror edges.