Clamping System, Grades Enable Efficient Cast Iron Machining

Kennametal’s Beyond Shield system combines new PCBN grades with a carbide-clad clamp said to offer improved wear-resistance from chip flow for increased efficiency in machining cast iron. Specifically designed for applications such as machining gray cast iron brake disks and brake drums, the system also is said to reduce tooling costs and extend tool life.

The three-point clamp design applies clamping force toward the front of the inserts, closer to the cutting edge, reducing vibrations that can lead to cracking and failure. With its multimodal PCBN structure, the KBK 35 grade has increased cubic boron nitride (CBN) content to increase wear resistance and insert life in roughing and finishing operations. A chemical vapor deposition coating protects against chemical wear, and post-coat treatments improve cutting-edge toughness.

The clamping system enables smaller-IC PCBN inserts to perform well in the same applications as the larger-IC insert, the company says. The system is also adaptable on standard toolholders.