Capable of cutting to depths of 55mm, new grooving and parting-off blades from Ringwood-based Horn Cutting Tools Ltd (www.phorn.co.uk) are designed for universal use in the production of small batch sizes (Hall 6 Stand 890).

Six blades with cutting widths from 2.5 to 4mm are available; they are either 26 or 32mm deep.

The grooving blades, which will be launched in the UK at the show, hold two inserts (at either end of the blade) arranged in ‘mirror symmetry’; the inserts are available with chip-breaker geometry in all cutting widths.

A self-clamping seat, which is opened with a chuck key so that the insert can be easily removed and a new one inserted, enables replacement that is said to be both straightforward and precise.

Coolant is transferred to the blade from the base of the holder, which is specific to the machine being used.

Coolant can reach the flank of the S100 insert whatever the groove depth; and if an insert with internal coolant supply is used, it will hit the point of cutting directly — flushing chips out of the working area and reducing the chance of chip accumulation.

The formation of a built-up edge and the risk of break-outs on the cutting edge are also reduced.