The latest solid carbide milling cutter from the innovators at CERATIZIT features patent-pending geometry that gives users of its MonsterMill FRP CR fibre compression across the entire cutting length when machining carbon fibre-reinforced-plastics (CRP). Thanks to this maximum utilisation of the cutting edge, tooling costs are reduced, less time is spent on programming, and tool life is increased. All of which are good reasons to take a closer look at this tool.
Carbon fibre-reinforced plastics are increasingly finding their way into many branches of technology where they are the preferred choice when high tensile strength and rigidity are required, alongside low weight. However, outstanding material properties pose major challenges for manufacturers of precision cutting tools. These tools must withstand high levels of abrasion and deliver optimum performance when it comes to component quality; with the new Monstermill FRP CR end mills CERATIZIT has overcome these challenges. With its combination of high-performance carbide and market-leading diamond coating, the solid carbide milling cutter does not only meet demanding requirements in the machining of carbon fibre-reinforced plastics, it marks a step-change in technology. In comparison to conventional routers with a fixed compression zone; the left and right hand helix on each cutting edge of the MonsterMill FRP CR form a criss-cross pattern cuts that has a negative effect on the workpiece eliminating any pulling up or pushing down of the component when under cut, offering further key benefits to users.
Regular left and right-hand cuts on each cutting edge and the accompanying fibre compression across the entire cutting length result in fibres being cut off cleanly in all directions, without damaging the component. This greatly reduces delamination and projecting fibres. Also, depending on the component thickness and the fixture, MonsterMill FRP CR can be used multiple times, as the fibre compression is present across the entire cutting length, maximising the full flute length of the cutter. This gives the customer the opportunity to lower costs; one tool can be used several times depending on the shape and thickness of the component as well as the clamping fixture.
Other benefits of MonsterMill FRP CR include reduced time and effort spent on programming for shaped components as, when compared to a conventional router with a fixed compression zone, no zone is aligned on the component for the milling and profiling of shaped components with the MonsterMill FRP CR. This significantly reduces programming time, saving time and money. Using the unique length independent compression zone designed into MonsterMill FRP CR, and dependant on component thickness and shape, it is possible to significantly extend tool life. This is achieved by oscillating the cutter in an axial direction, which assists dust removal and promotes cooling of the cutting edges. This is a major advantage in comparison to standard routers with a defined compression zone.
