Wokingham-based Kyocera SGS Precision Tools Ltd (
www.sgstool.eu) has introduced a service called Tool4Life. When a
customer buys one of the company’s Z5 HPR end mills that is 10mm in diameter or larger, the company will regrind and recoat it free of charge, provided that it is not irreparably damaged.
Alternatively, to ensure continuity of production, a replacement milling cutter can be exchanged for a worn tool within 24hr.
The Z5 HPR solid-carbide range of tools is designed for roughing titanium and nickel alloys, cast irons and alloy steels, including stainless grades. Cutters are available in diameters ranging from 3 to 25mm.
A variety of square and corner-radius options may be specified, as well as a range of lengths. Due to its asymmetry, the variable five-flute pattern is said to suppress chatter over a wide range of spindle speeds; moreover, a surface finish of 0.8Ra or better is normally achieved, even during aggressive roughing.
There is a choice of two multi-layer wear-resistant coatings. Tinamite M is designed to reduce friction and prevent built-up edge when machining difficult materials like titanium at high metal removal rates.
Meanwhile, Kyocera SGS says that Tinamite A is highly resistant to abrasion and erosion, and it is more suited to cutting stainless steels and nickel alloys, along with steels and cast iron.