Widia’s VSM890-12 cutter is able to conduct operations that include face milling, shoulder milling, Z-axis and contour plunging, and 100% radial engagement slotting. This operational diversity is credit to the availability of a course, medium or fine-pitch insert density that corresponds with a newly developed pocket seat design which enhances stability and rigidity during roughing applications.
The VSM890 series is available with a 32 mm diameter Weldon end-mill configuration, while the shell mill tool bodies come in diameters from 40 to 250 mm, with a cartridge face mill providing a 315 mm diameter. Each tool diameter is offered in the aforementioned course, medium and fine-pitch variants, whereby the course-pitch tool bodies are the optimal choice for low spindle power machines that may have an unstable set-up. For machine shops that have reasonably robust set-ups and spindle power, the medium-pitch tool body is first choice, while operators using heavy-duty machine tools with high spindle power will find the fine-pitch variant to be the optimal solution.
In terms of the options available, the 12 mm insert designation can be offered with eight of Widia’s premium insert grades that can conduct high material removal on aluminium, steel, stainless steel, cast iron, titanium and high-temperature alloys. To outperform competitor products, Widia says it has introduced three insert geometries to the WSM890 series. ALP geometry is the first choice for non-ferrous materials, whereas ML geometry impresses on stainless, light machining and finishing applications. MM geometry is the preferred option for the machining of steel, cast iron and high-temperature alloys.
Arguably the most impressive feature of the WSM890 tool is its true 90° cutting for wall and step milling. With an integrated wiper facet and positive rake design on the inserts, the VSM890 cutter generates high levels of surface finish and an efficient and smooth cutting action for low-power machines. Furthermore, with 8-edged inserts, ITC can offer a cost-effective milling solution.
Throughout 2019, Widia will be extending the range with the introduction of 7, 9 and 15 mm insert dimensions.
