Schütte Introduces New Magnetic Finishing Technology

Schütte has introduced new Magnetic Finishing (MF) technology, a new processing form for work piece surfaces. The work piece is positioned in a magnetic field created by a magnetic tool. The gap is filled with processing powder. Each grain of the powder contains abrasive and magnetic components. The magnetic components hold the powder in this space while the abrasive components fulfill the cutting function by the relative movement of powder to the work piece. The powder holds on the surface of the magnetic tool and accomplishes its movements. By using permanent magnetic tools, the adhesion of the powder is very strong, so it gives a high pressure on the surface in process. A very high productivity of cutting process is the result, the company said.

"With this technology, it is not only possible to process magnetic materials (e.g. HSS, Carbide), but also light magnetic (e.g. HM) and non-magnetic materials (e.g. Aluminum)," said a spokesperson. "For processing of cutting tools, two magnetic tools are applied. The magnetic finishing technology can be used for materials with different hardness. The powder works during the process as an elastic tool. The hardness of this tool may be varied through the variation of definite technological parameters of the process. For example, the enlargement of the processing interspaced between the magnetic tool and the cutting tool surface generates a smoother and more elastic tool. Surfaces will be smoothed to a roughness of Ra=.02µm and Rz=.08µm. Outside edges and chipping edges get an exactly defined and reproducible radius between 3µm and 50µm.

"Due to the decreasing of surface roughness and reproducible edge rounding, the magnetic finishing technology is ideal for processing of different cutting tools.

"The regular and exact roundness of cutting edges is very important not only for tools which will be finished without getting a coating layer, but also for best preparation to a coating process. Typical examples are: taps, mills, end mills, drills, stamp tools, etc.

"A further application of the magnetic finishing technology is polishing of coated surfaces. In just a few seconds, droplets will be removed, and the coating layer will be polished. The coefficient of friction of the tool decreases considerably. This effect has been demonstrated on many tools.

"The magnetic finishing technology can also be applied on various and complex surface structures in only one step. Our engineers are continuously testing together with our customers' new application areas," the spokesperson said.

For more information contact:

Schütte LLC

4055 Morrill Road

Jackson, MI 49201

517-782-3600 Ext. 10

Fax: 517-782-3363

www.schutteusa.com

E-mail: dbrigham@schutteusa.com