NTK whisker ceramic inserts promise to double cutting speeds

Developed specifically for turning operations on heat-resistant alloys commonly used in aerospace, oil and gas and motorsport, the Bidemics JX1 grade has been designed to run at cutting speeds from 180 to 500 m/min at a depth of cut from 0.3 to 3 mm. The new JX1 grade runs at operational speeds that are even faster than whisker ceramics on roughing to semi-finishing operations.

The unique physical properties of the JX1 grade permits machining of newer material compositions, such as high nickel and cobalt alloys and powder metallurgy alloys, that are increasingly commonplace in the aerospace sector. Furthermore, the composition of the JX1 series makes it an all-rounder with regard to difficult materials, as it can also be applied to Inconel, Rene, 718 and Waspalloy.

Running at more than double the speeds and feeds of whisker ceramic cutters also enables the chips to break with greater ease, providing more efficient swarf removal.