Toolin' Around Sonic Blog

Welcome to Toolin’ Around Sonic, your go-to resource for everything related to carbide tooling, metal cutting, milling operations and more. Here, we explore the challenges and techniques behind precision machining—from optimizing cutting tool geometry and feed rates, to navigating tool wear, coatings, and maintenance. Whether you're in a high-production shop or pushing performance at the spindle, we’re here to share sharp insights, practical strategies, and real-world know-how—brought to you by the team at Sonic Tools LP.

How to Improve Your Aluminum Surface Finish when Finishing

Posted by Cam Glass on 09.02.25

Introduction Here's a visual for you: you're in the shop, finishing the last pass on an aluminum cylinder head for a client. The job's behind schedule, so you're laser-focused on getting it right the … read more

Are You Choosing the Right End Mill for Milling Aluminum?

Posted by Cam Glass on 07.31.25

Unique Materials Call for Unique Solutions. The Trouble with "Easy" Aluminum Out of all the metals, composites, alloys, and other materials we encounter when machining, working with aluminum is typ … read more

Why the Best Shops Get Better Results With the Same Tools

Posted by Cam Glass on 06.24.25

You don't need a new tool. You need a better process. Smarter Shops, Stronger Results Walk into any CNC shop, and you'll hear it: "This tool's killing me." It's an easy explanation for a complex mac … read more

Carbide End Mills 101: Tool Types, Geometry, and Selection Tips

Posted by Cam Glass on 05.14.25

Ever wonder why one tool sings and another screams? The difference isn't usually luck, it's geometry. Think all end mills are the same? So did the guy who chipped three before lunch. Let's ensure you … read more

5 Speeds and Feeds Mistakes That Could be Ruining Your Tools

Posted by Cam Glass on 04.04.25

  Think your setup is solid? You might want to think again, especially if you're cutting aluminum.   Every little detail that goes into your cutting parameters can significantly affect tool … read more