The harder the mould steel, the better the surface finish quality on plastic products. This theorem explains plastic injection moulders' increasing need for special steels, which excel thanks to their homogeneous hardness. This is why Deutsche Edelstahlwerke developed Formadur 400.

A flexible machining cell that can be adapted to a number of different tasks relies on robot technology to ensure high precision. For mould shops, the unit suits a number of finishing applications, according to its supplier.

Pferd offers a new speed-adjustable micro motor system. According to the specialist for surface treatment and cutting tools, the drive system is characterised by its slim and compact design as well as his cost-effectiveness.

Germany – With the VHM-HPC universal end mill concept Starmax (diameter: 3-25mm), tool manufacturer Inovatools said it has recently made the HPC end milling of steel materials – contour milling, angular in-feed milling and pocket milling – quick and cost-effective.

Technologies for the additive manufacturing of metal parts remain on the advance. One German mould maker adopted the technique five years ago and continues to churn out tooling inserts with the method.

An optimised cutting geometry for universal use in a wide range of materials allows customers the opportunity to significantly reduce their tap stock usage, according to supplier Iscar.

How will ultra-hard materials be defined in the future, and can they be milled today with reliable processes? Union Tool wanted to find out, so it worked with partners to test the limits of its cutting tools.

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Last year, Dormer Pramet in Šumperk, Czech Republic, inaugurated its Experience Centre. During a tour of the new and old buildings, the manufacturer of indexable inserts presented itself as an innovative company with a comprehensive R&D department and state-of-the-art technology.

The international tooling network is a concept by WBA Tooling Academy Aachen to enable tool shops to internationalise their production. In six steps, tool shops are prepared for successful and effective collaboration around the globe.