News

Kennametal’s New PCD Tools for Efficient Aluminium Machining

Kennametal introduced a new line of Polycrystalline diamond (PCD) round tools for aluminum machining that delivers upto 10 times higher productivity than carbide tooling. The new collection of drills, reamers and end mills offers exceptional tool life and wear resistance even in very abrasive aluminum alloys and are available with extremely short lead times.

The line of PCD end mills features 6-50 mm diameter tools, cutting depths up to 50 mm, center-cutting, roughing, and finishing geometries with various rake angles. The PCD drill offering features 6-20 mm diameter in 0.5 mm increments, up to 5 x D with inch and metric sizes. The PCD reaming portfolio offers 6-20 mm in diameter in 1 mm increments as well as through and blind hole versions. In addition, the PCD modular reaming system with KST coupling is available for larger diameters up to 42 mm.

These PCD-round tools are suitable for rough and finish machining with through-the-tool coolant capabilities and an MQL-ready interface. The incredibly sharp cutting edges and low-friction rake surfaces eliminate concerns over built-up-edge. Low friction machining also creates superior surfaces in finishing operations, such as reaming. The surface roughness of Ra 0,1–0,8 μm (0.0025–0.02 μ-in) is achievable. PCD grade KD1410 ensures extended tool life and is especially beneficial in the high silicon content aluminum used to make automotive parts like engine blocks or cylinder heads. The PCD round tool line includes a range of hole-making and hole finishing solutions such as modular rotational heads of up to 42 mm.

Michael Hacker, Product Manager, Kennametal Inc shared, “Our new PCD round tools line enables our customers to machine aluminum significantly faster, for greater productivity on the shop floor. In drilling and reaming operations, these tools consistently perform at cutting speeds of up to 900 m/min (3,000 SFM). Milling operations can be performed at an incredible 6.000 m/min (20,000 SFM)—far higher than non-PCD tooling.”

 www.kennametal.com