Sandvik Coromant has launched a new, light cutting insert for its CoroMill 170 precision gear milling cutter. The -PL geometry flank insert reduces cutting forces, making it suitable for smaller gear milling machines, giving users the option to reduce power consumption or run for faster and longer. The insert features a positive chip breaker that minimizes unwanted cutting forces and vibration. This helps produce less heat generation in the cutting zone and prolong insert life. In tests the new -PL geometry shows 20 percent lower power requirement when the maximum chip thickness is less than 0.004 inch.

Taking advantage of Sandvik Coromant's grade GC1030, the technical features of the new insert support greater cutting stability and in turn allow higher cutting speeds. Working in the steel application area, typical operations include rough milling of internal and external gears, along with the machining of large gear wheels in the 12-22 module range. Sandvik Coromant recommends a lower feed than used for existing CoroMill 170 insert geometries such as -PM (medium) and -PH (heavy).