Tool and mould makers generally use milling cutters with a large length-to-diameter ratio to produce ribs, for example, but due to the risk of breakage it is necessary to program a relatively low feed rate. Now such grooves can be machined to a depth of up to 20 mm more quickly and cost-effectively using Horn's Speed-Forming technique.

The carbide tools are based on the German manufacturer's Supermini 105 system. As with broaching, the cutter has a fixed orientation in the spindle as it travels along a programmed path. Maximum infeed per stroke is 0.3mm with a rapid feed rate of up to 60m/min. The cycle can even include curves and undulations in the groove, making it an efficient solution for creating cooling fins or reinforcing ribs in a casing.

When used on rigid machines, the tools achieve short processing times as the shape of the Supermini tool is able to withstand high loads. Toolholders are available with an HSK 63 interface or as a round shank with a diameter of 25mm. All versions feature internal coolant supply.

www.phorn.co.uk