Register for free to
view the full innovation profile.
Novel, robust, and cost-effective manufacture of cutting tools by a non-contact technology which is not affected by material hardness
About
Background Proper edge honing is a critical element in the manufacture and performance of cutting tools. An edge hone imparts strength to the cutting edge, thus reducing the incidence of edge chipping, improving tool life and the overall surface quality of the machined parts. Currently, edge honing is done using mechanical abrasive brushes. This process is time consuming, prone to high variability, and inconsistent in quality. This is especially true for honing tools that are made from super hard materials such as polycrystalline diamond (PCD) and polycrystalline cubic boron nitride (PCBN), the demand for which is on the rise with the advent of advanced engineering materials that are difficult to machine. Technology Overview Electro-erosion edge honing addresses the problems associated with effectively honing tools made of ultra-hard steel, PCD, or PCBN. The method is novel, robust, and cost effective. A modified EDM process rapidly rounds-off the sharp edges of the tool electrode generating consistent geometric edge radii on cutting tools. Stage of Development: Test data is available. #08-051
Key Benefits
• This technology is non-contact and is not affected by material hardness • The method is also accurate and very precise
Applications
• Tool Manufacturing • Manufacturing maintenance