Tools for difficult materials

Citation

(2000), "Tools for difficult materials", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 72 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2000.12772fad.002

Tools for difficult materials

Tools for difficult materials

Keywords: ACT, Tooling

What is claimed to be the world's strongest range of parting-off and grooving tools is now available from Advanced Carbide Tooling Ltd.

Manufactured by Mircona, the tools claim a well-proven history of high performance and reliability. The manufacturer informs us that these tools are suitable for use with even high temperature acid resistant alloys including Waspaloy, Inconel and Hasteloy, etc. In Mircona's opinion they have become the accepted tooling for use with these aerospace materials, many of which have now been adopted in other fields where the work hardening and corrosion resistant characteristics of the materials have proved to be valuable.

The inherent strength claimed of the Mircona range is said to be based upon the integral shank toolholders which are machined from solid bar. They provide maximum support and rigidity for the cutting insert while still accommodating the machining clearance and extra blade reach. The original design concept for these products, which evolved nearly 40 years ago, has reportedly stood the test of time. Although the basic design has been developed over the years to accommodate a wide range of specialised applications, it is believed to be as relevant today for use on the latest CNC machines as it was for the manual lathes.

In operation, the Mircona tooling is said to be noted for a considerable reduction in both vibration and chatter, which accommodates increased speed and feed rates while still maintaining excellent surface finishes, even on traditionally difficult to machine materials.

The general overall rugged construction of the toolholder range is also reported to be enhanced by the flush fitting top clamp for the inserts, which are themselves held securely in an inclined reinforced V seat with a positive insert stop. These features are said to combine, to give repeatable cutting accuracy with an on-centre cutting location of the insert, which is preferred for modern machining and programming applications.

The Mircona range comprises a range of purpose-designed toolholders, complemented by an extensive selection of insert geometries, carbide grades and specialised coated finishes, as well as some ceramic inserts.

Details available from Advanced Carbide Tooling Ltd. Tel: +44 (0)1455 234000; Fax: +44 (0)1455 234022; Web site: www.AdvancedCarbideTooling.co.uk