Extremely high wear resistance and durability are the impressive features of the new inserts. Higher cutting speeds and feed rates can also be achieved with a considerably longer service life of the material.
Cell fibre technology is therefore not only an interesting development for traditional machining applications in metalworking. The new cutting material is marketed under the CERATIP brand and thanks to its unusual properties is preferred for the demanding field of machining alloyed metal, as used for example in the aerospace industry for aircraft engines.
In addition, cell fibre technology from Kyocera can also be used for the entire spectrum of conceivable applications. This universal character makes it suitable for machining cast iron and non-ferrous metal as well as steel.
Senri Nagashima, European Product Line Manager of the Kyocera Cutting Tools business unit, sees a promising future for cell fibre technology: “In an initial step, this cutting material technology can be seen as an absolute alternative to whisker-reinforced ceramics. It is quite possible that the innovation will require us to work with the machine tool manufacturers in considering a new generation of machines, particular for turning applications.
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The principle behind the technique is simple: tough outside, hard inside. Cells with an outer wall of relatively tough, machining-resistant material are filled with a hard, wear-resistant material, such as silicon nitride, mixed ceramic or hard metal. These cells are then processed into a mat and several mats into a block. In its sintered and compressed form, the result is a very lightweight, extraordinarily wear-resistant yet tough material. The finished product provides the basis for manufacturing the desired cutting device.
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