The company has most recently introduced a new lightweight bell tool that boasts long tool life. Bell PCD tools are frequently used in the hydraulic and automotive sectors, with examples being the external machining of hose connections on turbochargers where complex contour requirements must be met with precision. This means that cutting tool production must be equally precise to ensure customers can achieve their cost-effective, precision machining requirements.
With its new tool, Mapal has optimised the existing, conventionally manufactured bell tool by integrating selective laser melting process into its manufacturing processes. This allows the inside of the cutting tool to be modified, replacing solid material with a honeycomb structure. As a consequence, the tool is at least 30% lighter and tool life is increased by upwards of 40%, credit to the enhanced vibration damping characteristics of additive manufactured tool designs. Machining at higher speeds and feeds while retaining required quality is possible.
