CNC milling machines are becoming one of the most commonplace manufacturing tools when it comes to the production of custom components. These computer guided cutters are able to create parts from virtually any material, making them an invaluable resource for manufacturers. When it comes to extending the working life of tools or cutting into hard materials like steel or cast iron, solid carbide cutting tools will provide the best results.

Some of the most common tools are manufacturers from high speed steel alloys. These materials are designed to handle higher speeds and feeds than standard steel tools, but they cannot go as fast as carbide tools. Any fully metallic tool is subject to the physical properties of metals, including heat tempering. Once metal is run through the proper temperature cycles, it will become tempered. Tempered metal has a more uniform hardness and less brittle cutting edges than untemperated metal.

At high enough speeds, any metallic tool is capable of losing its temper and the hardness of its cutting edges. This is what makes carbide cutting tools so important. Carbide tools are made from a combination of cobalt metal and powdered micrograins of tungsten carbide ceramic. While the metal components of the tool may soften with heat, the ceramic content within carbide tools help to stabilize their cutting edges. Tungsten carbide is twice as dense and twice as rigid at steel and stable at almost any temperature.

This makes carbide milling cutters the perfect tool for operating at the high speeds so shops can minimize production times and work with a wider range of materials. If you are planning on ordering new carbide end mills or drill bits for your shop, it is important to consider the source you are purchasing them from. There are different carbide grades and cheaply manufactured tools are often constructed from lower quality materials.

One way to ensure high quality tools is to avoid ordering from overseas. American manufacturers not only consistently produce high quality tools, but they are also available when you need them. If you are looking for a reliable manufacturer, check out Online Carbide. They are an American end mill and drill bit manufacturer that uses high quality carbide stock and precision grinders to make incredibly accurate tools. They offer all of their products at manufacturer direct pricing so customers can save big on high quality products.

So if your shop is in need of new carbide cutting tools, check out www.OnlineCarbide.com. Their product line includes standard end mills, drill mills, thread mills, and several types of drill bits. They offer both polished carbide tools and tools coated with finishes like zirconium nitride and titanium aluminum nitride. These coatings help to protect your tools and extend their working life. If you have any questions about their products or placing an order, you can contact a member of the Online Carbide team by calling 630-238-1424 or sending an email to [email protected].