Acquiring expertise in turning high-temperature alloys and other tough materials helps expand a shop’s options in otherwise consolidating markets.
The benefits can be choosing to keep cutting parameters the same and produce more parts from each tool, or to increase traditionally low speeds and feeds, cut cycle times, and improve deliverability in a pinch. Finding the right tools means keeping up with the latest improvements in geometries, coatings, and production processes for turning inserts.
New geometries, coatings, and post-coat treatments in Wida’s Victory turning grades, are delivering higher productivity results, including improved surface finishes and longer tool life, for turning nickel-based and other high-temperature alloys. The benefits are lower manufacturing costs for users. In particular, two new grades, WS10PT and WS25PT offer very good wear resistance in both rough and finish turning of difficult-to-machine alloys.
Negative insert geometry (,NMP) in both grades is designed for medium-duty work and minimizes the tendency of chrome- and nickel-based alloys to adhere to the insert surface. A multi-layer TiAN coating improves wear resistance for increased speeds and reduced cycle times. A ZrCN top layer reduces friction for improved surface finish and also functions as an indicator for flank wear.
Post-coat treatments improve edge toughness and reduce depth-of-cut notching for long, predictable tool life. Further post-coat grinding provides a smooth and secure seating surface.
Value Line
Widia Products Group is also announcing Widia Value, a new cost-effective line of inserts. Each insert is 100 per cent manufactured to outperform competitive inserts when cutting steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and high-temperature alloys. With a simple grade-selection method, and because these inserts can be used in an astounding 80 per cent of all turning applications, the new line is targeted at small and mid-size turning operations.
Widia Value products make it simple for users to get the most out of their inserts. Multi-layer coatings help improve specific cutting processes and also expose wear as the tool continues to be used. This makes it easy to detect when an insert is ready to be changed – maximizing workpiece value and quality. Also, because WIDIA Value inserts can be used in most applications, a single insert be used for a variety of cutting tasks, reducing inventory. The Value products can also reliably cut steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and high-temperature alloys, enabling quick changes in workpiece materials without the need to swap inserts. This versatile line offers eight grades to choose from, and eight geometries, including negative rake and screw-on.
