Port Authorities
A subset of form relief tools, port contour cutters perform multiple machining processes in one pass.
Product Category
Cutting Tools & Tooling
Shapely and Strong
This article looks at advantages of button cutters, particularly for high-speed machining.
Fast Times in HSS
New alloys improve the performance of HSS cutting tools.
Precise Turns
A look at Swiss-style cutting tools and how they are applied.
Parting Know-How, Part 2
Understanding parting-off operations
The Sweet and Sour of Parting-Off Operations
Understanding parting-off operations.
Plugging In
A new turning tool emits an electric signal when its insert reaches a predetermined wear point or breaks. Called Sensor Tool, sections of the coated insert are ablated by a laser, thereby creating an electronic circuit.
Size Matters
The trend toward developing finer and finer carbide grains continues. The author looks at recent developments in the production of nanosized tungsten-carbide grains, which are smaller than 0.2 microns in diameter. Though not used widely at present for the production of cutting tools, some predict that will change as the technology evolves.
Don’t Toss that Indexable Tool
Ninety-nine percent of indexable tools that break can be repaired, according to companies that repair tools. And, they say, a broken indexable tool can nbe repaired so it performs as well as or better than the original.
Expanding Possibilities and Self-Improvement
Round-up of five recently introduced indexable tools: stub drill, universal nmilling cutter, center-cutting endmill, dovetail cutter and insert clamp.n
Getting a Better Edge
The author, an expert on cutting tool edge preparation, explains the importance of applying the proper edge hone to a tool. He also discusses a brush-type honing machine designed to apply a variable edge--a capability not available with other machines on the market.
Grade Wise
Most people know that using the right grade of insert can improve nproductivity dramatically. Few know that the proper grade is also important nwhen utilizing round tools. The author examines the different types of ncarbide grades available for round tools.n