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Cutting Tools

Oerlikon IMTS 2024 Booth Visit

At IMTS 2024, Chris Halter showcased Oerlikon Balzers' latest innovations in PVD coating technology, featuring the new INVENTA system with Advanced Arc Technology for enhanced productivity and sustainability. Highlights included the BALINIT® ALCRONA EVO coating, offering superior wear resistance for gear cutting and forming applications, and the Domino Kila flex system for small-scale operations.

TungSpeed-Mill series

TungSpeed-Mill series expanded
Tungaloy Corp. recently expanded its TungSpeed-Mill series with new small-diameter, close-pitch cutters designed for precision machining applications. The expanded lineup includes bore-type cutters in three sizes: ø40 mm (z=8), ø50 mm (z=10) and ø63 mm (z=14). The new cutters feature a steel body construction that balances weight reduction with structural integrity. This design enables the tools to remain under the 3 kg weight limit (including arbor) required for BT30 machine compatibility. The lightweight construction makes these tools particularly suitable for smaller machining centers while maintaining the necessary rigidity for precise cutting operations.

Cutting Tool Orders See October Rebound Amid Yearlong Slowdown

Shipments of cutting tools, measured by the Cutting Tool Market Report produced by AMT - The Association For Manufacturing Technology and the U.S. Cutting Tool Institute (USCTI), totaled $212.5 million in October 2024. That's up 12.6% from the previous month but down 0.2% compared to October 2023. Year-to-date shipments through October 2024 totaled $2.07 billion, an increase of 0.6% from shipments made between January and October of 2023. The 2024 YTD growth rate, however, has declined every month since April.

ZCC IMTS 2024 Booth Visit

ZCC USA showcases its efficient cutting tools, including solid drills and milling products. New for 2024 are the GMX Series Universal End Mills and XML-12 high-feed mills, designed to enhance material removal efficiency. The company also introduces chip breakers and high-efficiency milling cutters for improved tool longevity, along with the YBH053 turning grade for hardened materials and the FMR11 milling cutter series for fast material removal. ZCC USA celebrates 20 years in the American market.

Hermle IMTS 2024 Booth Visit

Cullen Morrison introduces the C 650 machine at the Hermle USA booth during IMTS 2024. He demonstrates its capabilities through a project involving a Volkswagen T1 Bus, highlighting the challenges in manufacturing and the solutions provided by partners. The process involves various tools, transitioning from roughing to detailed work, and extensive surfacing for a quality finish. Cullen appreciates the partnership with Moldino Tool Engineering and anticipates future collaborations.

Ceratizit IMTS 2024 Booth Visit

Scott Walrath showcases the OptiLine series of End Mills, offering four, five, six, and seven flute configurations tailored for diverse machining applications. These tools are available in sizes ranging from 0.005 inches to 2 inches, providing exceptional versatility and precision. Kenny Green introduces the MaxiMill 211 DC, an innovative 3D-printed coolant-through cutter designed to enhance cooling efficiency. Ideal for machining high-temperature alloys, titanium, and nickel, the MaxiMill 211 DC ensures superior performance in demanding applications.

Rush IMTS 2024 Booth Visit

Mike Coffey, a field service engineer at Rush Machinery, showcases the RushCut, a PLC-controlled machine designed for efficient cutoffs. It features adjustable clamping, customizable work holding, and a direct coolant system for enhanced performance. The user-friendly touchscreen allows for easy programming, while safety features prevent operation with the door open. Coffey also presents the end profile grinder, emphasizing its programmable functions and convenient loading options.

Greenleaf IMTS 2024 Booth Visit

Martin Dillaman, global manager at Greenleaf Corp., presents innovative tooling solutions for hardened steel. Key highlights include the WG-600 ceramic insert, designed for high-speed, coolant-free operations, and the versatile Excelerator milling tools. Live demonstrations underscore the efficiency of ceramic inserts, cutting process times from 30 minutes to mere seconds — a game-changer for applications in the oil and gas sector.