# 200w CNC capabilities? **URL:** \ **Category:** Snapmaker 2.0 (3-in-1)\ **Created:** [January 25, 2025, 7:22pm UTC](https://forum.snapmaker.com/t/200w-cnc-capabilities/38838 "2025-01-25T19:22:05Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 4\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![Thick8](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/flex022/user_avatar/forum.snapmaker.com/thick8/32/4040_2.png) [@Thick8](https://forum.snapmaker.com/u/Thick8)\ **Post date:** [January 25, 2025, 7:22pm UTC](https://forum.snapmaker.com/t/200w-cnc-capabilities/38838/1 "2025-01-25T19:22:05Z")
Not a lot of info out there. I was thinking of trying a 6mm, 3 flute bit for aluminum. Anyone tried this yet? I’m clearing a face from an aluminum block right now using the 3.175 2-flute end mill. Cutting at 200mm/min at .3mm depth. Doing a great job but think a different bit will yield better cut times. Anyone try using drill bits for holes in aluminum. I did small holes with the 50w and a drill bit. Going to try bigger holes with the 200w. Has anyone added the side rails to firm up the bed. Do they work well? I have some profiles to cut out of 1/4" 6061 aluminum plate. I may wait for the new bit(s) though. ---
**Author:** ![xchrisd](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/flex022/user_avatar/forum.snapmaker.com/xchrisd/32/1503_2.png) [@xchrisd](https://forum.snapmaker.com/u/xchrisd)\ **Post date:** [January 25, 2025, 8:11pm UTC](https://forum.snapmaker.com/t/200w-cnc-capabilities/38838/2 "2025-01-25T20:11:29Z")
I can not say much, only had one project. I saw that it is not possible with 1,5mm bits, this diameter is too weak… Have a look here: > [@Aluminum on the 200W CNC](https://forum.snapmaker.com/t/aluminum-on-the-200w-cnc/35920/5): > > I recommened to use special cnc bits for aluminium. They did the job quite well for me. The snapmaker bits did work for me but they are not available as single packs with only one type of bit. I use the provided clamps or directly screw it down to the bed. ---
**Author:** ![Hauke](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/flex022/user_avatar/forum.snapmaker.com/hauke/32/5704_2.png) [@Hauke](https://forum.snapmaker.com/u/Hauke)\ **Post date:** [January 26, 2025, 12:38pm UTC](https://forum.snapmaker.com/t/200w-cnc-capabilities/38838/3 "2025-01-26T12:38:43Z")
Adding to xchrisd: In case you’re on Facebook, visit user [Chris Kaladstrodamus](https://www.facebook.com/groups/371401856611467/user/531195948) - he is doing awesome work with Aluminium and the SM2! ---
**Author:** ![Thick8](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/flex022/user_avatar/forum.snapmaker.com/thick8/32/4040_2.png) [@Thick8](https://forum.snapmaker.com/u/Thick8)\ **Post date:** [February 13, 2025, 8:07pm UTC](https://forum.snapmaker.com/t/200w-cnc-capabilities/38838/4 "2025-02-13T20:07:36Z")
Hi Guys, Thanks for your replies. I did purchase a couple of 6mm end mills for aluminum. They cut like butter. I joined Facebook. What a clusterfuck of a site. How does anyone find answers to specific questions? Questions like: Has anyone used an edge finder with their SM? The smallest diameter edge finder I found is 3/8" in diameter, yet I can’t find an er11, 3/8" collet. Is there a solution to this issue? I spent almost 4 hours finding the center of a hole with a digital caliper, a feeler gauge, and a 3mm shaft installed in place of a mill. It was a major PITA and took 4 tries to finally get it right. precision was key as I’m joining two rotating components so there was no room for error.