Secomax™ CS100 – Selection of Edge Preparation 07:28

Earlier this year (2015) the SecomaxTM range of Sialon ceramic inserts was extended with the addition of a new edge preparation, called “T”. Previously only S-edge preparation was available as standard on ISO-inserts. On grooving inserts, the E-edge preparation is standard.

 So, when to select what?

First let’s explain the difference. The S-edge preparation means an insert edge that is both chamfered and honed. This makes the edge stronger, but it also increases the cutting forces, increasing the risk for vibrations.

The T-edge preparation means only chamfered cutting edge, there is no additional edge honing. This reduces the cutting forces, but it also makes the edge weaker.

The E-edge preparation is usually not found on ISO-inserts, it is mainly for grooving inserts, where often long overhangs are used, and the risk for vibrations must be minimized.

For ISO-inserts, the first choice is the T-edge preparation. It gives the user a good balance between edge strength and low risk for vibrations. If a stronger edge is needed, and the machining setup is rigid, the S-edge preparation can be used. Although the E-edge preparation is not standard on ISO-inserts, it can be had as a special, used if there is a high risk for vibrations, but usually with a reduction in tool life, since this is a very brittle edge-preparation.

Below are two examples of successful machining with the T- and the S-edge preparation.

Instable setup, T-edge preparation:
Facing of a larger component. Tool wear can also be seen.

Stable setup, S-edge preparation:
Facing of a smaller component.

For more information, please contact your local Seco representative, or our Advanced material (PCBN/PCD/CERAMIC) team.

Author: Henrik Sandqvist Product Specialist SECOMAX PCBN/PCD/CERAMIC SECO TOOLS Shanghai CO., Ltd. Level 2, Building 8, 456 HongCao Rd., Shanghai 200233, China Office: +86 21 5426 5849 Mobile: +86 185 1520 6942 e-mail: henrik.sandqvist@secotools.com