Chesterfield-based Dormer Pramet (www.dormerpramet.com) has expanded its range of parting-off and grooving tools to accommodate a variety of machining conditions.

For example, the new 25mm GL double-edged insert is available in a variety of widths from 2-6mm and can machine grooves that are up to 60% deeper than the company’s LCMF16 insert.

With the PVD grade G8330, the GL insert can be used for machining steel, stainless steel and cast iron. It is available with two new geometries.

PR is the first choice for medium to high feeds in a variety of machining conditions; its strong cutting edge resists cracking when grooving interrupted cuts and is ideal for the parting-off of bars.

The PM geometry is an option for low to medium feeds on soft materials, such as austenitic stainless steel, as it offers good resistance to built-up edge and reduces the burr left by the parting-off of tubes.

A new range of external tool-holders is available, with shank dimensions from 16 to 25mm.

These are designed to ensure stable cutting and resist vibration, thereby achieving high-quality surface finishes. The holders provide an overhang up to 32mm.

In addition, a range of universal tool blades is available; these feature a double-sided clamping key and can be replaced using one hand.

Meanwhile, Dormer Pramet has also launched a new grooving system.

This comprises the X61 insert and P61 tool-holder and is for light machining — such as the external and internal turning of grooves for lock rings and sealing rings.

Widely used in the bearing and automotive industries, lock rings (also known as circlips) and sealing rings require ‘highly durable and accurate tools’ due to the small dimensions involved.

The inserts, which are available in widths up to 1.85mm and in both single- and doubled-edge designs, feature a positive geometry that reduces cutting forces and generates less heat, resulting in less stress on the workpiece, tool and machine.

Available in the new G8330 grade, the X61 includes a negative T-land to improve cutting-edge strength and reliability, making it suitable for machining steel, stainless steel and cast iron. New tool-holders support both internal and external grooving.