Metalworking
New tool geometries raise machining productivity

From MA Alexander Stark 3 min Reading Time

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New cutting-tool developments from Tungaloy, Horn and Dormer Pramet address different stages of the machining process. Common development priorities include reliable chip control, fewer tool changes and stable machining under demanding conditions.

Modern cutting tools are designed to improve machining efficiency, process reliability and component quality.(Source:  Dormer Pramet)
Modern cutting tools are designed to improve machining efficiency, process reliability and component quality.
(Source: Dormer Pramet)

Flat surfaces on non-ferrous components are often machined using the end cutting edges of general-purpose solid end mills. However, their dish angles can make it difficult to achieve the required surface finish. Small-diameter tools also tend to have relatively few flutes, limiting productivity in high-volume applications such as D-cut and H-cut machining on sliding-head lathes.

Tungaloy is addressing these requirements by expanding its Tung Meister exchangeable-head end-mill range. The system comprises more than 45 head geometries and several shank materials, covering diameters from 5 to 32 mm. The manufacturer offers more than 25,000 head and shank combinations for different machining applications. The latest addition is a face-milling head developed specifically for non-ferrous metals. Its geometry includes a wiper on the peripheral cutting edge to improve the resulting surface finish. A positive rake angle and sharp cutting edges are intended to reduce cutting resistance, while enlarged chip pockets help prevent chip accumulation.