WNT's 21st century 90° corner milling solution

With the introduction of the 2011 indexable insert milling system WNT has moved 90° corner milling into the 21st century, it claims. "It is recognised that an indexable insert cutter will never cut as quietly as a solid tool,” says Adrian Fitts, WNT (UK) business development manager. “However, we have developed 2011 to such an extent that we believe we are as close as it is possible to get.” As a result System 2011 provides an extremely quiet machining with minimal vibration and, consequently, very low stress levels on the machine tool. The benefits are extended tool life, improved surface finish and increased feedrates and depths of cut. In the case of the latter, it is possible to take depths of cut up to 10 mm with a 2011 insert measuring only 11 mm in length. In addition to the development of the soft cutting action emphasis was placed on the design of the end face of the insert. “The development of the ‘notch’ on the end face has proved advantageous when machining features such as closed end slots and pockets and when helical ramping. The concept is very similar to indexable insert drilling, whereby the 2011 inserts almost trepan a groove to prevent cutter push-off and create a rigid machining environment when plunging or ramping,” says Mr Fitts. Three new geometries have been created: –F50 for machining stainless steel and softcut steels; -M50 for general purpose machining of steel and cast iron; and –ALP for aluminium and other light alloys. A range of coatings is available. All of the cutter bodies in the 2011 system feature a chromium-based coating designed to extend cutter life. The milling cutters are available from 16 mm diameter and all feature through tool coolant as standard. Shank styles include cylindrical, face mill, Weldon and screw type.