Ceramic End Mills Take The Heat In HRSA Machining

Sandvik Coromant offers higher productivity when milling nickel-based alloys

Cutting tool and tooling systems specialist Sandvik Coromant is releasing two series of ceramic end mills for optimized performance in nickel-based alloys. The 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.

With aerospace components manufactured from nickel-based alloys becoming increasingly prevalent, the demand for optimized cutting tools grows. With this thought in mind, Sandvik Coromant has developed two innovative solutions that are ideal for the shoulder and face milling of nickel alloy aero-engine parts.

“The ceramic substrate of the latest CoroMill 316 and CoroMill Plura end mills allows for a different cutting process than traditional solid-carbide tools,” explains Tiziana Pro, Global Product Manager Solid End Mills at Sandvik Coromant. “Our unique CC6060 grade is purpose-designed for the superior machining of nickel alloys, and is supported by negative geometry that provides a tough cutting edge.”

In fact, six-flute geometry delivers highly productive side milling operations, while four-flute geometry boosts face milling in both the CoroMill 316 and CoroMill Plura versions. Choice between the two depends on machine conditions and application. Those seeking solutions to difficult-reach applications, or looking for extra flexibility courtesy of the exchangeable-head system, should opt for CoroMill 316, while engineers 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 can be achieved in comparison with solid-carbide tools, delivering considerable potential for increased productivity. A stable set-up is advised, without coolant application as it would simply burn at the high temperatures involved.

Beyond shoulder milling and face milling, the new end mills can also be used for pocket milling, helical interpolation, ramping and slot milling. Both CoroMill Plura and CoroMill 316 are part of the Sandvik Coromant Optimized Solutions offer within the company’s Solid Round Tools range.

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.