Sandvik Coromant Turning Inserts Optimize Performance

Sandvik Coromant’s GC1205 and GC1210 physical vapor deposition (PVD) insert grades enable secure, high-precision turning of aged, nickel-based, heat-resistant superalloys (HRSA).

The GC1205 and GC1210 insert grades are designed to make surface requirements for aerospace engine components easier to achieve. Together, they are said to cover a large application area during last-stage machining (LSM) and intermediate-stage machining (ISM).

There are several key features that can help in working with the high-level performance of HRSA materials. A hard, fine-grained substrate, PVD coating technology and optimized edge-line integrity provide increased flank wear and secondary notch wear resistance, improved edge-line security and reduced flaking.

“For our customers, this translates into possibilities to run the inserts at higher cutting speeds with GC1205 and increased tool life with GC1210. Additionally, it ensures consistent and predictable tool life while reaching the required surface integrity demands for critical aerospace components,” says Martin Saunders, global product application specialist for turning.

Typical components the grades can machine include gas turbine discs, casings, blisks, spools, shafts and blades. These grades are also well suited for demanding applications such as power generation turbines and medical implants made of cobalt chrome. GC1205 is a finishing grade for machined surfaces in LSM and ISM applications. GC1210 is designed to perform in applications where more toughness is required, and is mainly used in ISM applications for nonmachined surfaces.

Saunders adds, “The release of these two new grades offers the opportunity to increase cutting data while also prolonging tool life predominantly in last-stage machining and intermediate-stage machining of aerospace and medical components.”