Processing skills of tungsten steel milling cutter in aerospace industry

2024.03.12

Tungsten steel, also known as high-speed steel, is a type of tool material commonly used for milling cutters in the aerospace industry due to its ability to withstand high temperatures and maintain its cutting edge at high speeds. The processing of tungsten steel milling cutters for use in the aerospace industry involves a number of steps, including:

  1. Raw material selection

    Tungsten steel milling cutters are typically made from a mixture of tungsten, molybdenum, and cobalt, as well as smaller amounts of other elements such as vanadium and chromium. The exact composition of the raw material will depend on the intended use and performance requirements of the cutter.

  2. Forging

    The raw material is heated to a high temperature and then shaped into the desired shape using forging techniques such as hammering or pressing.

  3. Machining

    Tungsten steel milling cutters are machined using a variety of techniques, including turning, milling, and grinding. These processes are used to shape the cutter and create the desired geometry, such as the flutes and cutting edges.

  4. Surface finishing

    The surface of tungsten steel milling cutters may be finished using techniques such as polishing or grinding to improve their appearance and performance.

  5. Heat treatment

    After forging, the tungsten steel is heat treated to improve its mechanical properties and microstructure. This typically involves heating the material to a high temperature and then quenching it in oil or water to cool it rapidly.

  6. Grinding

    The forged and heat-treated tungsten steel is then ground to the desired shape using techniques such as surface grinding, cylindrical grinding, or centerless grinding.

  7. Coating

    The surface of the tungsten steel milling cutter may be coated with a layer of material such as titanium nitride or chromium nitride to improve its wear resistance and extend its lifespan.

Overall, the processing of tungsten steel milling cutters for use in the aerospace industry requires a high level of skill and expertise, as well as specialized equipment and techniques.