Tools that can stand the heat

The Elect S™ drill range represents the first products launched by Dormer developed specifically for the machining of materials known collectively as Heat Resistant Super Alloys (HRSA).

Including high temperature resistant alloys such as Titanium, Inconel and Waspalloy, these materials can be difficult to machine for two principle reasons, as David Goulbourne, Dormer's development manager for drilling products, explains; "Firstly, they generate high cutting forces during machining, leading to high pressure and heat, which in turn tends to result in work hardening. Secondly, because they are able to withstand high temperatures, the heat generated during drilling is retained within the workpiece and transferred to the tool, resulting in premature drill failure."

In addition to internal coolant holes, several features of the Elect S™ drills combine to lower the occurrence of work hardening. These include a body back taper that promotes a free, continuous cutting action as well as high quality, accurate holes. A self centring 140 degree point angle, cylindrical margin and positive cutting edge geometry also work to minimise frictional cutting forces, leading to consistent tool performance and minimal work hardening.

Another key attribute of the Elect S™ drills is a Smooth-Flow coating that acts as a thermal barrier, protecting the substrate from the extreme heat generated at the cutting edge. This also has a low coefficient of friction, resulting in smooth and efficient chip evacuation and, in turn, extended tool life.

Available in two lengths to support drilling to 3 x diameter (R507) and 5 x diameter (R503), the Elect S™ drills will be of particular interest to anyone involved in the production of high value components or requiring a high degree of precision, such as aerospace subcontracting, oil & gas and nuclear industries.