Ceratizit Group’s FreeTurn Allows for 360 Degrees of Turning

Ceratizit Group’s High Dynamic Turning (HDT) method combines its FreeTurn tooling systems with a turn-mill’s B axis milling spindle. This combination allows for 360 degrees of turning, since the tool approach and point of contact can be varied during machining. HDT is said to enable traditional turning operations such as roughing, finishing, contour turning, face turning and longitudinal turning with one tool.

Instead of relying on inserts‘ static positions in holders, HDT uses the milling spindle to adjust the tool’s angle-of-approach to the workpiece. Combined with the use of the spindle drive, the FreeTurn’s slim axial design reduces the risk of collision and improves flexibility, according to the company. Due to the rotation around its own tool axis, the cutting edge in action can be changed without interrupting the machining process. The angle of approach is also freely variable at any time and can be changed during the cutting process.

The toolholder can form a spindle unit with FreeTurn’s slim shank and axial concept that optimizes the direction of cutting forces into the spindle. The design enables machining in narrow workpiece contours up to the chuck. Cooling channels ensure coolant supply to the machining area.

At the top of the tool shank a multi-sided insert is screwed in place. The FreeTurn insert can consist of several cutting edges with different properties. This allows for different approach angles, corner radii or chip breakers, and roughing and finishing operations in one tool. Different coatings and cutting materials are also available.