Ceratizit Milling Tool Enables Dynamic Positioning

Ceratizit USA’s FreeTurn tool features a slim, axial structure that enables users to benefit from 360 degrees of freedom in the axis without the risk of collision.

The dynamic positioning optimizes chip breakage and improves component quality by changing the position during the process. Undercuts or contours, which currently require an additional tool, can be produced. With FreeTurn, shops can rough, finish, contour turn, face or longitudinal turn with the same tool.

With conventional turning processes, a separate tool is needed for every contour. This results in large tool costs and long tool changeover times. With High Dynamic Turning and the FreeTurn tool, together with the freedom provided by the milling spindle, the cutting edge can be changed through rotation about the tool axis, providing huge savings on tools and changeover times. Plus, machining time is said to be reduced by up to 25%.  

According to the company, FreeTurn’s advantages include the ability to machine almost all workpiece contours with one tool; run at 40% higher feed rates; reduce empty tool paths by up to 90%; adjust feed rates during processing; improve surface quality; reduce tool changes; and require fewer tool locations.  

Compatible CAM software for FreeTurn is available through industry partners, including Exapt, EdgeCAM by Hexagon, GibbsCAM, Heidenhain, HyperMill, SolidCAM, Siemens NX and TopSolid.