Walter USA LLC has introduced Blaxx, a new shoulder mill that reportedly combines precision, high metal removal rates and process reliability in a single tool, with a high-gloss black finish that is both wear and corrosion resistant.

The F5041 and F5141 shoulder mills, now available, feature highly precise indexable insert pockets that position the inserts accurately and securely. Add to this the fact that these tools are also fitted with tangential inserts that can not only increase the insert area presented to the workpiece but also enhance tool body stability, and you have a productive and highly robust tool characterized by quiet, low-vibration operation and exceptional process reliability.

These advantages are magnified by Walter's precision inserts. Manufactured in sizes LNHU0904 and LNHU1306, they have four cutting edges per insert that allow for low horsepower consumption and high metal removal rate. The highly controlled runout and concentricity of the body, and their precise 90 degree perpendicularity to the workpiece, ensure a high degree of accuracy.

Cutting depths of up to 12mm are possible with the larger LNHU1306 indexable insert. Since the insert pockets and chip clearances for the tangential inserts demand less material in the tool body, smaller tool diameters can be achieved, with higher density capabilities than with other mill designs.

The new Blaxx shoulder mills are available with diameters starting at 25mm. The higher density design enables up to 30 per cent higher feed rates.

Blaxx performance is further enhanced by the use of Tiger-tec Silver, Walter's new high performance coating. Tiger-tec Silver delivers both superior tool life and increased productivity thanks to its advanced properties, according to the company. These include increased high-temperature wear resistance with no loss of toughness. This combination of toughness and high wear resistance permits higher cutting speeds while also lengthening tool life.