Cutting Epoxy Glass Composite - Tormach CNC Application

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This video reviews FR4 with 1/8" carbide. Also known as G10, FR4 is a epoxy glass composite used in circuit boards.

This application video reviews edge cutting epoxy woven glass using a PCNC 1100 CNC mill. The application example involves cutting individual printed circuit boards (PCBs) out of a larger panel.

Material: 0.067" FR4
Cutter: 2 flute spiral carbide
0.125" diameter
Speed: 4500 RPM
Feed: 10 to 25 IPM
Coolant: None

Background -
Epoxy woven glass is a specific example of the general class of composites known as glass reinforced plastic (GRP). Similar composites using linen, cotton, or paper in a polyester or epoxy matrix are relatively easy to machine. Epoxy glass composites are more difficult to cut due to the abrasive nature of the glass fiber.

Printed circuit boards are commonly made using FR4 grade of epoxy glass composite. The multiple step process of manufacturing small circuit boards is made more economical by printing multiple circuit boards on larger panel and then cutting apart the smaller boards. FR4 and G10, a similar but flammable composite, are also used as structural materials. In thicker sections the materials are exceptionally strong and stable.

Read More:
http://www.tormach.com/MfgDatabase/20101_Cutting_%20FR4.pdf

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Grade G-10, FR4, Garolite, GRP, Glass Reinforced Plastic, epoxy woven glass, PCB, printed circuit board, edge milling, routing, tab routing, panelized PCB, palletized PCB