When high-octane performance meets precision tooling, the result is a collaboration that drives innovation. NASCAR’s Research and Development (R&D) facility relies on premium solutions to manufacture next-level components ensuring speed, precision and above all, safety at all stages of development.
"The first word that comes to mind when I think of Kennametal is quality," said Bob Duvall, Managing Director of NASCAR's Competition Partner Program. “NASCAR teams are always looking for the best in class, and Kennametal aligns perfectly with that standard."
Behind every racecar, there's a team of dedicated professionals ensuring that each component is machined to perfection. This involves using reliable tooling solutions in a prototyping environment where parts need to be designed, programmed and manufactured within tight deadlines.
Recently, NASCAR upgraded its CNC machinery to enhance its manufacturing capabilities. To fully leverage this new technology, Hank Fowler, NASCAR's Manager of Manufacturing turned to Kennametal which has been instrumental in optimizing NASCAR's machining processes.
“Upgrading machines and moving to Kennametal tools has significantly sped up my cutting processes,” said Fowler. “With the addition of flood coolant and Kennametal tools, I’ve been able to increase my material removal rates as well improve surface finishes and reduce the need for any post-processing like deburring.”
Fowler also mentions that once he has a part number, he speaks with his rep for additional insight as to whether or not a better option may be available.
Shipping tools on time is also critical for success on timely projects. For example, when Fowler was working on a manual turning job that had a .094” groove in chromoly steel, he made a simple phone call and was able to get the tool holder and inserts on time to deliver parts.
“Working with Kennametal and my rep has been a game changer,” said Fowler. “I continuously get the right tool for the job. Also having the proper feeds, speeds and chip load information has been incredibly helpful.”
One of the standout features of Kennametal's tooling solutions is versatility. Whether it's a half-inch HARVI end mill or another specialized tool, the NASCAR R&D team knows they can rely on Kennametal to deliver consistent performance. This reliability is essential for NASCAR's fast-paced manufacturing needs, where even a slight delay can impact testing and development schedules.
As part of NASCAR's R&D group, Hank and his team handle a wide variety of tasks. Their most common machining projects include creating inspection tools for their competition group and fixturing for various types of testing within the R&D team.
Recently, the team worked on an inspection tool made with 303 stainless steel, which featured a tight tolerance slot. In the past, they would have been nervous about this job, but after ordering a .1875” HARVI I TE, they completed the task effortlessly.
Kennametal’s tools have made a tangible difference in NASCAR’s R&D facility and being able to deliver under pressure has been a big win. Especially in a world where every second counts.
"We had a big wind tunnel test coming up, and there was a lot riding on it. If we couldn't get the parts made in time, it was going to hurt us,” said Fowler. “Thanks to Kennametal, we got the tool and got the job done."
The partnership between NASCAR and Kennametal is a perfect example of how precision tooling can be successful in high-stakes environments. With Kennametal's reliable and versatile tools, the R&D team can meet the demanding requirements of NASCAR's manufacturing processes.
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