A variant of the successful Supermini precision-tooling system from Ringwood-based Horn Cutting Tools Ltd (www.phorn.co.uk) has been introduced with the new HP geometry.

This allows higher cutting para-meters (including in-feed rates), as well as multi-functional use on a lathe across a range of operations — including drilling, boring, face turning and skimming.

Holes from 3 to 7mm in diameter can be drilled into solid material using Supermini HP tools without a chip-breaker; and while its ‘performance data’ cannot compete with normal drills, the system is a practical solution if the number of cutter locations in a machine is limited.

With the single-edged version, various hole diameters can be produced with a single tool.

The Supermini HP offers the option of immediately boring an inner contour after drilling without having to change the tool.

Moreover, an accurate 90deg shoulder can be achieved at the base of a hole, and the wiper geometry produces ‘excellent surface quality’ — even at high feed rates.

Horn also provides tools with a chip-breaker; this is recommended for turning applications.

The slightly twisted flute helps to remove chips efficiently from the machining zone, while an EG35 coating allows versatile machining of both standard steels and stainless steels.

In addition to the HP geometry, Horn has developed a new design of tool-holder for the Supermini type 105, whereby clamping is achieved using a tensioning wedge on the face rather than on the circumference, as was previously the case.

This holds the tool in place with more force, making the entire system more rigid.

Additionally, its design results in a higher level of repeatability when changing the tool and allows a more compact construction; even when working with Swiss-type lathes, a user can change the tool without removing the holder.