ASPECTS REGARDING THE SELECTION OF TOOLS FOR METAL CUTTING ON CNC MACHINES

The process of cutting with numeric control machines is a flexible process which provides the quickest adaptation and response to a new production task. Processing with a CNC machine is a technology where the succession of processing steps is analyzed to the level of all details regarding the tool movement, both from geometrical and technological points of view. The effect of tool geometry on the cutting process is variable therefore the geometrical parameters should be selected in a logical sequence, namely: selecting the cutter clamping system, selecting the tool support geometry and selecting the cutter geometry. Selection of cutter geometry implies the selection of following parameters: cutter shape, size, thickness and edge radius. CBN tools with defined geometry are used for cutting heat treated steel with hardness above 45 HRC, rapid steel, heat resisting steel with Ni and Co content and for powder or welding restored surfaces.