Balinite Alcrona Pro, the second generation of ALCr-based coatings, is now available on new and re-sharpened tools from Star SU. Developed by Oerlikon Balzers, Alcrona Pro can be used in a wider range of applications than other aluminum-based coatings because it provides better heat resistance for high temperatures and better wear resistance for tough cutting applications. Lower thermal conductivity allows Alcrona Pro-coated tools to work well in low temperature applications and allows faster hobbing speeds - 200 m/min is the new base speed. The cost savings include 30 percent lower tool costs, 50 percent longer tool life, 20 percent faster cutting parameters and 100 percent dry cutting.