Cutting-tool and tooling-systems specialist Sandvik Coromant (
www.sandvik.coromant.com) has introduced two series of ceramic end mills for machining nickel-based alloys.
The company says that its latest brazed ceramic CoroMill 316 and ceramic CoroMill Plura end mills offer a more productive method for roughing in ISO S materials than standard carbide milling cutters.
Tiziana Pro, global product manager (solid end mills) at Sandvik Coromant, said: “The ceramic substrate of the latest CoroMill 316 and CoroMill Plura end mills allows for a different cutting process than traditional solid-carbide tools.
"Our CC6060 grade is purpose-designed for the superior machining of nickel alloys, and it is supported by a negative geometrythat provides a tough cutting edge.”
A six-flute geometry delivers highly productive side milling operations, while a four-flute geometry boosts face milling in both the CoroMill 316 and CoroMill Plura versions; the choice between the two depends on machine conditions and application.
For those seeking solutions to difficult-to-reach applications — or looking for extra flexibility courtesy of the exchangeable-head system — Sandvik recommends CoroMill 316; those requiring “superior stability” are advised to select CoroMill Plura.
Ceramic tools retain their hardness at the high temperatures associated with milling heat-resistant super-alloys (HRSAs).
As a result, 20- to 30-times the speed offered by solid-carbide tools can be achieved.
A stable set-up is advised — without coolant application, as the coolant would simply burn at the high temperatures involved.
As well as shoulder milling and face milling, the new end mills can be used for pocket milling, helical interpolation, ramping and slot milling.
The newly introduced series also includes a ceramic ball-nose version of CoroMill 316 for blisk machining.
This profile-milling solution is suitable for semi-finishing operations.
Further details can be found at the Web site (
www.sandvik.coromant.com/en-gb/products/coromill_316/pages/default.aspx).