Vollmer UK has launched the new VLaser 370 machine for processing precision cutting tools manufactured from ultra-hard materials such as PCD, CVD and PCBN. The company says its new arrival makes Vollmer the industry’s first ‘full-line’ manufacturer with technology that encompasses the disciplines of grinding, erosion, wire erosion and laser cutting.

Incorporating advanced kinematics with smooth movement, future-proofed components and high thermal stability, the VLaser 370 is for the production of cutting tools with a diameter of up to 150 mm, an overall length of 250 mm and a maximum weight of 10 kg. Users can automate production with the adoption of the proven HC4 or HC4 Plus systems that facilitate up to 158 or 160 tools, respectively.

Vollmer says the machine is already proven to be up to 50% more productive than rival technology in field tests, while delivering forms as precise as 0.002 mm. Notably, the concept of the VLaser 370 is that everything rotates around the laser at the rotation point of the C axis. The five axes and a laser with fixed-beam guidance enable fast and precise machining at the centre point of the machine.

From an ease-of-use perspective, the VLaser 370 enables direct clamping of tools in the A axis regardless of tool length. The VLaser 370 improves handling and accuracy by eliminating the need for tool extensions. Additionally, the ability to incorporate a counterpoint enhances stability and precision further, especially when processing long tools that demand the utmost precision.

For anyone already familiar with the Vollmer EDM operational system, the VLaser will prove a breeze. With the same operating philosophy, the intelligent and intuitive interface enables the transfer of programs from existing Vollmer EDM machines.

More information www.vollmer-group.com

Sandvik Coromant is introducing its second-generation exchangeable-tip drill, the CoroDrill DE10. Engineered for high-volume drilling across all materials, the company says CoroDrill DE10 delivers true plug-and-play functionality and uncompromised performance.

Building on the success of CoroDrill 870 for H9-H10 hole tolerances, CoroDrill DE10 introduces advanced features that enhance versatility and operational ease. Users will appreciate the familiar pre-tension clamping interface, thoughtfully designed to align with operator experience while delivering enhanced security. The solution priortises robustness, enabling quick tip changes, reliable high-speed drilling and extended drill body life with more tips per tool. Its unique -M5 tip geometry delivers unmatched performance across diverse materials and cutting conditions.

CoroDrill DE10 addresses several common drilling challenges, particularly for manufacturers tasked with producing large quantities of holes in a single operation. With high-feed capabilities, the tool achieves fast penetration rates, boosting productivity and lowering cost per hole. Additionally, both tool inventory and cycle times can be reduced, as CoroDrill DE10 eliminates the need for a pilot hole to guide the drill into place.

As a true plug-and-play solution, CoroDrill DE10 integrates into existing set ups, offering ease of use while enhancing operational efficiency and performance. Sandvik Coromant says the tool will streamline manufacturing processes and deliver consistent results with minimal downtime.

“CoroDrill DE10 marks a new era in exchangeable-tip drills,” states Mikael Carlsson, global product specialist for indexable rotating tools at Sandvik Coromant. “Testing against competing solutions has demonstrated its superior robustness, faster and easier tip changes, enhanced feed capacity, extended tool life, and reduced cost per hole. It’s an ideal solution for high-volume hole-making in parts such as heat exchanger plates, automotive components, shafts, pumps, valves, and I and H beams.”

More information www.sandvik.coromant.com

When it comes to machining superalloys used commonly in the aerospace, motorsport and medical sectors, solid-carbide cutting tools will only deliver performance to a certain level. To take performance into the stratosphere, cutting tool manufacturer TaeguTec says machine shops should apply ceramic cutting tools, like its CeramicSFeed.

Ceramic tooling requires a change in mindset and machining strategies, but TaeguTec says the dividends are incredible with the correct cutting tool. Unlike solid-carbide tools, CeramicSFeed is capable of machining at cutting speeds up to 1000 m/min at feed rates of up to 0.1 mm/tooth. Suitable for processing nickel-based superalloys such as Inconel at these elevated machining parameters, the CeramicSFeed incorporates TaeguTec’s C3030 grade. A geometry incorporating unequal flute spacing, a high helix angle and an optimised edge geometry with proprietary cutting edge ‘after-treatment’ further drives performance.

Available as a four- or six-flute variant, the new CeramicSFeed TC3030 grade is manufactured from a SiAlON composition that provides durability in shouldering, slotting and ramping operations.

TaeguTec has introduced the TC3030 grade CeramicSFeed with a four- or six-flute CRF variant, or the four-flute high-feed CRH range. The four- or six-flute CRF has been developed with a larger core diameter to increase stiffness and minimise vibration. The high-helix 40° cutting angle and corner radius further extend tool life and improve swarf evacuation during high-feed machining.

In contrast, the high-feed CRH four-flute end mill features a robust, high-strength body that is conducive to machining at high feed rates. This combination makes the four-flute CRH a suitable choice for high-feed facing and ramping applications where maximum material removal rates are a necessity.

More information www.taegutec.com

Allied Machine and Engineering, a manufacturer of hole-making and finishing cutting tools for the metal-cutting industry, is adding to its product offer with the release of T-A Pro kits – a foundational cutting tool solution for a wide range of hole sizes.
 
The holder kits, which are available in 3xD and 5xD as well as flat and cylindrical shanks, allow customers to drill anything from 12.7 to 35.04 mm. With each insert kit featuring 12 commonly used diameters, users also have the opportunity to select an ISO-specific option that best meets their needs. From a carbide insert with a more universal geometry to a general-purpose insert that tackles a range of materials, the insert kits are available in ISO P, K, N, M and X (HSS substrate).
 
Ultimately, Allied Machine says T-A Pro kits provide customers with a high-performance drilling solution that combines exceptional penetration capabilities and versatility across a wide range of sizes, delivering both efficiency and value. For small to mid-size shops, the kits act as an introduction to the T-A Pro product line while offering a solution to drill a range of common industry diameters. Additionally, T-A Pro kits are suitable for customers who have recently purchased a CNC machine: the kits act as a ready-to-use solution that maximises their investment as soon as the machine hits the floor.
 
As a starting point for a variety of application needs, T-A Pro kits build a good foundation for users. As T-A Pro has a full diameter range of 9.50 to 47.80 mm, users can expand into smaller or larger diameters, as well as depths from stub to 15xD.

More information www.alliedmachine.com

Following the successful launch of the Thrill·tec TC645 Supreme orbital drill/thread mills for sizes ranging from M4 to M12, Walter is now broadening its offering to include extra metric sizes from M14 to M20, along with their imperial equivalents.

The new arrivals boast the same technical properties as the established versions – most importantly the ability to carry out drilling, chamfering and thread milling with just one tool. However, for the first time, users can also benefit from the efficiency of this 3-in-1 function for larger thread dimensions. For instance, the longer paths of the machining program, which are common for large components, now only have to be travelled once instead of three times. For the end user, this reduces non-productive time by two-thirds.

Like all Thrill·tec orbital drill/thread mills, the new versions are also sufficiently rigid for universal use in ISO materials P, M, K, N and S up to 48 HRc, while boasting integrated internal coolant. This feature enables reliable chip removal, especially with a high feed per tooth.

These new additions extend tool life and ensure that blind and through holes are machined with precision and process reliability. The combination of short machining times and long tool life reduces cost per thread, reports Walter, resulting in a tool that benefits both mass producers and users with smaller batch-size production.

Walter offers special dimensions for delivery with a reduced delivery time of three weeks via its Walter Xpress service. In addition to versatility, users from a wide range of industries – such as mechanical engineering, aerospace, automotive and construction – can benefit from the rapid availability of the tools.

More information www.walter-tools.com