For a long time, I wasn't sure what I wanted to do with my career. I knew that I wanted things to work out, but I wasn't sure what to do to make things happen for myself. Fortunately, a friend of mine mentioned that there was a lot of potential growth involved in local equipment companies, so I started learning more about the processes they used. I found a great business that offered the kind of job I was looking for, so I met with them to chat about the specifics. It was neat to learn what they wanted to do, and now I feel like I contribute to operations. Check out this blog to learn more about equipment.
Mankind has constantly evaluated, tweaked, and refined the tools that are used to shape various materials. This evolutionary process has led to the creation of some of the most precise and diverse milling tools ever.
Milling tools can be made from many different materials. Each of these materials will have an impact on the efficiency and performance of the tool. All machinists need to be familiar with popular milling tool materials and their associated properties in order to complete any project successfully.
Carbon Steel
Milling tools made from carbon steel tend to be the most affordable. This is because of the wide availability of steel materials. You can successfully complete a number of milling processes with tools made from carbon steel, but it's best to limit these tools to low-speed operations.
Use carbon steel tools in machines like twist drills, forming tools, and machine cutters. Carbon steel tools are not as durable as tools made from more expensive materials, so they cannot withstand high speeds on a regular basis.
High-Speed Steel
Not to be confused with carbon steel, milling tools made from high-speed steel are actually comprised of several different types of metal. These milling tools include chromium, tungsten, and molybdenum. When combined together, these metals create an alloy that has the hardness, toughness, and durability needed to perform consistently over time.
High-speed steel milling tools can be paired with any machine to complete almost any process. Use these types of tools for the machines that you utilize most regularly to reduce tool replacement costs in the future.
Ceramics
Some specialty milling tools are constructed from ceramic materials. These tools are usually made by combining aluminum oxide and silicon nitride to create tools that are capable of resisting corrosion when exposed to heat and moisture.
Ceramic milling tools can operate under extreme heat without warping or losing their structural stability. This characteristic makes ceramic tools the perfect choice when you need to work with cast iron, hard steel, or superalloys that may generate a lot of heat during the milling process.
Ceramic tools will stand up to the heat and perform reliably to help you complete any machining project with ease.
The tools that you combine with your machinery can have a significant impact on the overall quality and consistency of milled products. Make sure that you pair carbon steel, high-speed steel, and ceramic tools with the right milling processes for the best results when machining in the future.
Contact a mechanical milling equipment provider for more information.