Kennametal has introduced a new line of PCD round tools for aluminium machining that the company says delivers up to 10 times higher productivity than carbide tooling. The company says that its new line of drills, reamers and end mills provides long tool life and high wear resistance, even in very abrasive aluminium alloys, and is available on very short lead times.

“Our new PCD round tools line enables customers to machine aluminium significantly faster, for greater productivity on the shop floor,” says Michael Hacker, product manager. “In drilling and reaming operations, these tools perform consistently at cutting speeds of up to 900 m/min. Milling operations can be performed at 6000 m/min, far higher than non-PCD tooling.”

With through-the-tool coolant capabilities and an MQL-ready interface, these PCD round tools are suitable for both rough and finish machining.

Extremely sharp cutting edges and low-friction rake surfaces eliminate concerns over built-up-edge. Low-friction machining also produces superior surfaces in finishing operations, such as reaming. Surface roughness of Ra 0.1-0.8 μm is achievable.

PCD grade KD21 / 2810 assures extended tool life and is particularly beneficial in the high-silicon content aluminium used to make automotive parts like engine blocks or cylinder heads.

Kennametal’s latest line of PCD end mills includes 6 to 50 mm diameter tools for cutting depths up to 50 mm. Centre-cutting, roughing and finishing geometries are available in various rake angles. The PCD drill offering encompasses 6 to 20 mm diameter tools in 0.5 mm increments for cutting depths of up to 5xD. Kennametal’s PCD reaming portfolio includes 6 to 20 mm diameter tools in 1 mm increments. Through- and blind-hole versions are available. For larger diameters up to 42 mm, Kennametal offers the PCD modular reaming system with KST coupling.

For further information
www.kennametal.com