Matenco is a mechanical workshop specializing in CNC turning and milling for contract manufacturing. With over 40 years of experience and a state-of-the-art machine park, we take full responsibility from raw material to finished product. We help you efficiently and cost-effectively solve all challenges within machining – regardless of material or industry.
Stainless steel offers excellent properties such as high strength and corrosion resistance. However, it presents significant challenges during milling. Its low thermal conductivity leads to high heat buildup in the cutting zone, which can cause severe tool wear and negatively impact surface finish. Additionally, stainless steel tends to work-harden and has a toughness that demands optimized machining techniques.
Not all stainless steels are the same. At Matenco, we tailor our milling strategies based on the material type:
Austenitic steels (e.g., 304, 316L): High toughness and significant work-hardening.
Ferritic steels (e.g., 430): Less tough and easier to machine.
Martensitic and duplex steels: Require robust tools and precise process control.
We always analyze the material's properties before beginning any project to ensure optimal machining from the very first cut.
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When milling stainless steel at Matenco, we use:
Solid carbide end mills with advanced PVD coatings like AlTiN and AlCrN to withstand high temperatures.
Tools with polished flutes for efficient chip evacuation.
Special geometries designed to reduce cutting forces and prevent built-up edges.
Thanks to our modern equipment, including machines like the DN Solutions DVF 5000 and Haas VF-4SS, we can optimize tool selection for every project and material type.
At Matenco, we always adapt the cutting parameters for each specific application. General guidelines for milling stainless steel include:
Cutting speed: 60–120 m/min (adjusted depending on steel grade and tooling).
Feed per tooth: 0.05–0.15 mm/tooth to avoid rubbing and work-hardening.
Cutting depth: Moderate engagement to maintain process stability.
Cooling: High-pressure coolant directly at the cutting edge – a standard practice in our workshop.
By combining the right machine capacity with extensive experience, we consistently ensure the highest quality and efficiency in our milling processes.
At Matenco, we’ve seen almost every possible mistake when it comes to milling stainless steel – and we know how to avoid them:
Risk
Mistake
Matenco’s Solution
Too low feed rate
Work-hardening and tool wear
We ensure proper chip thickness from the start
Wrong tool material
Rapid tool wear
Special tools for stainless steel in every project
Insufficient cooling
Overheating and surface defects
High-pressure cooling in all applications
Unstable fixturing
Vibrations and poor precision
Stable fixturing and customized clamping methods
Austenitic steels like 304 and 316L are the most challenging.
Yes, generous cooling is crucial for managing heat and wear.
Solid carbide end mills with AlTiN or AlCrN coatings.
Yes, we offer grinding, polishing, and other finishing services.
Cutting speed: 200–400 m/min
Feed: 0.1–0.3 mm/rev
Depth of cut: 0.5–2 mm
Tool: Polished carbide or PCD (polycrystalline diamond)
Cooling: Dry or light mist
Tips: Highly thermally sensitive – cooling must be carefully controlled
Do you have a project that demands precision and experience? Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Matenco. We are happy to help you find the best solution for your machining needs, no matter the material or challenge. Contact us today – we’ll deliver a solution that meets your requirements, from initial sketch to finished product.
Work area
625x450x400
Spindle speed
12000
Tool locations
61
Control system
Fanuc
Type
5-axis milling
Work area
2xØ160x300
Spindle speed
12000
Tool locations
24
Control system
Haas
Type
5-axis milling
Work area
Ø160x200
Spindle speed
9000
Tool locations
21
Control system
Fanuc
Type
4-axis milling
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