6061 aluminum seems to be the go-to metal for most home machinists. The lack of rusting and the fact that the chips produced don't end up being horrific needles of death combined with the good machinability make it a good choice. I'm looking for some other options though when I need a heavier, harder metal. I'd prefer something that is dry machinable as I like using air blast with drip lubrication.
Given that I want something that won't rust (I don't clean up chips as often as I should and a pile of rusted chips anywhere is going to be a hell of a mess) my options are quite limited. I'm probably looking at some sort of stainless steel, but I'm wondering what's recommended. I really want something that won't be as prone to the burrs and sloppy edges that can result from machining soft metals like 6 series aluminum. I haven't had issues on 90 degree edges but I have to make some very sharp edges and aluminum isn't right for it. Is there a stainless steel that meets all these demands and won't result in days of discomfort from getting showered in chips?
Given that I want something that won't rust (I don't clean up chips as often as I should and a pile of rusted chips anywhere is going to be a hell of a mess) my options are quite limited. I'm probably looking at some sort of stainless steel, but I'm wondering what's recommended. I really want something that won't be as prone to the burrs and sloppy edges that can result from machining soft metals like 6 series aluminum. I haven't had issues on 90 degree edges but I have to make some very sharp edges and aluminum isn't right for it. Is there a stainless steel that meets all these demands and won't result in days of discomfort from getting showered in chips?