Part Cutoff Takes a New Direction

Many of today’s multitasking machines and turning centers have a Y axis. The capability and flexibility of this axis create an opportunity for a new approach to parting-off operations. Sandvik Coromant details how a specially designed parting blade has compelling advantages when this axis is used to separate a finished part from the barstock.

These advantages include:

• Forces are directed toward the length of the blade rather than toward its cross section. The blade is inherently stiffer and less likely to deform as a result.
• Y-axis parting blades offer increased access to the workpiece and can accommodate larger diameters.
• Surface finish is improved.
• Parting-off cycle time can be reduced to improve productivity.
• Customary blade holders and inserts can be used with the newly designed blades. Modifications to setup are relatively simple.

Sandvik Coromant is using the new blades in its production of toolholders. In this article, the quantifiable benefits to these applications are presented in detail as evidence of the blade’s effectiveness.