| At Think
& Tinker, we define a "High-Aspect-Ratio End-Mill" (HAREM) as
one whose depth of cut (DOC) is at least 5 times the cutting diameter.
Twenty years ago, such tools were almost exclusively made from
high-speed-steel (HSS), because a solid carbide tool was tool brittle
and easy to break. Two decades of material research have resulted
in tungsten carbide formulations that, in many applications, rival HSS
in strength and durability. Added to the inherent superiority of carbide
with regards to initial sharpness, abrasion resistance and cutter life,
these new capabilities have fueled the introduction of solid carbide and
brazed carbide tools into areas previously dominated by HSS
tooling.
Although we have been designing and fabricating
HAREMs for over fifteen years, it has only been during the past two years
that our designers have concentrated on defining a more complete family
of these tools for the jewelry and dimensional signage markets. We
will continue to add to our HAREM as the market, and our own
desires dictate.
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