Milling Cutter operates at speeds to 20,000 sfm.

Press Release Summary:

Designed for high-speed machining of aluminum alloys, VFlash(TM) employs serrated pocket design and direct-mount, insert-clamping system. Rigidity of insert mount is characterized by closed wedge-lock, pocket design, where 75% of insert body is protected and able to absorb centrifugal forces. Overall system strength is enhanced by incorporating serrated insert face and pocket surface to align and secure insert, minimizing lateral shift during operation.

Original Press Release:

VFlash(TM) Milling Cutter Offers up to 20,000 SFM Productivity

MADISON HEIGHTS, Mich., May 6, 2008 - Valenite LLC adds high-velocity performance and precision accuracy to its lineup of milling cutters with the launch of VFlash(TM) for the high-speed machining of aluminum alloys. Featuring a new serrated, pocket design and direct-mount, insert-clamping system, VFlash is the ideal complement for today's high-speed, machining centers offering safe, rigid and chatter-free operations at speeds of up to 20,000 SFM - rates for optimal utilization of tipped polycrystalline diamond (PCD) inserts for aluminum applications and cubic boron nitride (CBN) tools for other materials. VFlash also offers operator's ease of installation, reduces premature tool wear thus minimizing unnecessary tool changes, and provides higher metal removal rates and improved surface finishes. The high rigidity of the insert mount is characterized by a closed wedge-lock, pocket design, where 75% of the insert body is protected and able to absorb high centrifugal forces. Overall system strength is enhanced by incorporating a serrated insert face and pocket surface to align and secure the insert, thereby decreasing any lateral shift during operation. Within the pocket, the hardened wedge lock is positioned at the insert underside acting as a damper against vibrations and designed to protect the cutter body in case of collisions. The wedge is easily and economically replaced. The cutter body is manufactured from quality steel and hardened for added resistance to chip abrasion wear-and-tear. The direct-mount insert results in a more compact and durable clamping system than conventional-style mechanisms, and permits a more aggressive pitch and higher insert density. This allows for greater feed and material-removal rates. The clamp design also allows for quick changeouts with 1-1/2 turns of the clamp screw to relax the wedge-retention force on the insert. VFlash offers the ability to adjust each insert's axial-depth setting using a vibration-resistant adjusting screw. The adjustment feature provides easy, high-accuracy positioning and does not affect state-of-balance. Access to the axial adjustment screw is located out of the cutting zone and away from chip contamination helping to minimize wear and collision damage. This access position also eliminates obstruction of tool-sensing devices. Operation and maintenance are simplified by eliminating the need for multiple wrenches. A single-size Allen-wrench is the only tool needed. VFlash also optimizes insert applicability by allowing the use of the same geometry and size insert for all cutter diameters, presenting up to 0.4" cutting edge length. Sizes range from 2" through 12" diameters and utilize Valenite's ValProTM serrated style, PCD-tipped inserts for aluminum and non-ferrous work, or CBN selections for a wide range of applications. Cutters with metric diameters and mountings are also available, as well as special tools designed for specific applications. Founded in 1943, Valenite, LLC (www.valenite.com) is one of the largest suppliers of industrial cutting tools offering dedicated technical support and flexible solutions for its broad range of standard and special indexable inserts. Valenite designs and manufactures technologically robust turning, grooving, threading, parting and milling applications, as well as advanced materials and engineered solutions for high-production, custom-machining systems. As a partner to OEMs worldwide, Valenite solves critical industry issues with its manufacturing expertise and customized applications. With headquarters in Madison Heights, Mich., Valenite serves its direct customers and distributor partners globally. For more information on Valenite LLC, visit www.valenite.com or for further details on VFlash, visit http://valenite-wns.com/v-flash.html.