Why are cutting edges rounded?
Under a microscope, the cutting edge of a freshly ground or reground carbide tool looks extremely sharp but also jagged and fragile. That sharpness can cause micro-chipping at first contact, and these tiny chips are where rapid wear and larger fractures begin. Edge preparation (honing) rounds the edge in a controlled way to create a more stable cutting edge.
How Drag Finish works
The tools are clamped in holders and dragged at high speed through a container filled with abrasive and polishing media. In the process the cutting edges are rounded in the micron range, burrs are removed and the flute surfaces are smoothed.
Three main benefits
- Less micro-chipping: reduces stress concentration at the edge and makes the cutting edge more robust.
- Better chip evacuation: polished flutes reduce friction and help prevent chip packing, especially in deep pockets.
- Better coating adhesion: smooth, uniform surfaces help the PVD coating bond to the substrate.
Drag Finish at Geppetto
In production and in our regrinding service, cutting edges are prepared with the Drag Finish process, followed by PVD coating where required. Contact us for details about your tools.
