Hard Milling D2 Tool Steel at 62 Rc - How to Machine Hardened Steel with Indexable Carbide Tooling

Customers frequently ask if our indexable carbide milling tools are capable of hard milling heat-treated tool steels. The short answer is - yes! The longer answer is that you can do it efficiently, but need to take certain steps to assure your success:
1. Use a strong insert geometry, like a button (round) insert
2. Use a strong cutting edge, like a T-land or K-land insert
3. Use a very hard grade of carbide, to take the heat without deformation
4. Use a high-temp coating designed for hard milling or high-temp alloys
5. Use a light width of cut, usually between 25-40%
6. Use a light depth of cut, usually between .005-.015"
7. Use a light feed per tooth, usually less than the T-land width (.003-.006")
Good air blast should be used - no coolant (thermal shock)!
See this cutter body and inserts here: www.dapra.com/...
To learn more, or for help with your hard-milling application, contact us at 800-243-3344 or [e-mail]. We're here to help!
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