Kennametal has recently introduced the KOR 5 solid carbide end mill for aluminum roughing for aerospace applications. It is designed for maximum productivity in aerospace machining, with this five-flute end mill table feed rates increase up to 66 percent compared to commonly used three-flute tools.

KOR 5 is aimed at removing large amounts of metal and getting it away from the work zone as quickly as possible.

It includes a tapered core, variable pitch design, and 35° helix that eliminates chatter and tool deflection. It features coolant through the tool, flushing chips away while reducing heat. The KOR 5 also includes a unique chip splitter pattern designed to break up long chips, eliminating re-cutting, but still contributes to high surface qualities.

The tool has the potential to become the new standard for machines utilizing CAD/CAM tool paths. KOR 5 has more active contact points versus a 2-fluted or 3-fluted end mill because it is a 5-fluted end mill, which creates improved stability and eliminates chatter on even the heaviest cuts. Applying the tool with low radial engagement, but high depth of cut results in much higher metal removal rates than traditional methods.

 
“Slotting, deep pocketing, dynamic milling—whatever your aluminum application, KOR 5 can do it faster,” said Thilo Mueller, manager for solid carbide end milling at Kennametal.