Machining 80% nickel 20% iron alloy

[Voicecoil]

I have some slots/holes (typically 2....3mm wide) to do pretty accurately in a number of pieces of 80% nickel sheet, so the CNC's the obvious go-to. I was told by the supplier that it's a bastard to work with, does anyone have any experience of this please? I'm guessing it will be a bit like stainless & work harden rapidly hence you need to press on mercilessly, but if anyone has any info on speed & feed I'd be very grateful, thanks.

[TheHybridOne]

Hi, i work with nickel alloys on a daily basis.
Yes it will work harden rapid with that specific grade. That grade can often cut like aluminium, and clog up 4 flute cutters.
We tend to mill much larger than 3mm. However we have found 2 flutes work well. As for feeds & speeds, i would aim for a slightly higher feed than you would for stainless.
As you mention you need to press on merciless with it.
I find carbide or HSS tools work well.

[Voicecoil]

Cheers for the advice - I'll try some 2 flutes next time I have to do some parts.