Tech Tip: Grades and Coatings for Solid Carbide End Mills

Person Putting Kennametal GOmill PRO in a Tool Holder

Improving the performance of a solid carbide tool is a crucial element for getting the best out of your machining operations. This guide outlines general coatings and grades designed with specific chemical compositions for particular materials, as well as advanced Kennametal solid carbide end mill grades for high-performance machining.

General Coatings

For maximum performance and Metal Removal Rates (MMR), selecting the proper coating depends on tool geometry, workpiece material, application, feed rate, spindle speed and coolant use.

Titanium Nitride (TiN) coatings are used for general-purpose machining operations in softer materials. The coating offers high surface lubricity, reduces friction, and increases chip flow. Its resistance to heat and hardness allows tools to run at about 20-30% higher machining speeds than uncoated tools.

Titanium Carbonitride (TiCN) is harder than Titanium Nitride (TiN) at low cutting temperatures. It features good abrasion resistance and performs well in machining steels, stainless steels and non-ferrous materials. Tools coated with TiCN should be operated at speeds up to 50% higher than uncoated tools. However, if process temperatures get too high, the hardness drops significantly.

Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) coatings are harder than Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN). They provide higher abrasive and heat resistance, extending tool life and reducing cycles. These coatings are commonly used for machining aircraft and aerospace materials, nickel alloys, stainless steels, titanium alloys, cast iron and carbon steels.

Aluminum Chromium Nitride (AlCrN) coatings are extremely resistant to high temperatures and wear. Featuring chromium instead of titanium, this coating offers better performance compared to Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN). It is suitable for machining stainless steel, titanium, cast iron, tool steels, and other challenging materials across various applications.

Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) for maximum performance and Metal Removal Rates (MMR), selecting the proper coating depends on tool geometry, workpiece material, application, feed rate, spindle speed and coolant use.

Surface Feet Recommendations are Vital

To achieve benefits from high-performance coatings, they must run at significantly higher speeds than other coatings. If coated tools run at parameters other than those recommended, they can be counterproductive. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended starting points and work from there.

Kennametal Proprietary Grades and Coatings

Kennametal proprietary grades and coatings are essential for optimizing the performance and longevity of cutting tools in machining. By understanding the specific benefits and applications of these advanced materials and treatments, machinists can make informed decisions to enhance their operations. Selecting the appropriate proprietary grade and coating depends on several factors including material being machined, cutting conditions and tool geometry. 

Kennametal HARVI II TE Solid End Mill on Edge of Table

Kennametal Solid Carbide End Mill Grades

GOmill™ PRO KCU20

  • PVD TiN/TiALIN proprietary coating for application in, steel, stainless steel and cast iron
  • Ideal for intermediate cutting conditions

HARVI™ II TE KCPM15A

  • PVD AlCrN/TiSiN proprietary coating for applications in steel, stainless steel, cast iron and hard materials
  • Offers improved thickness, high metal removal rates and reliable tool life

Beyond™ Grade KYS40™

  • SiAlON ceramic end mills for dry machining of nickel-based high-temperature alloys at a very high surface footage/ RPM's
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