When machining tough materials like titanium, cutting speeds are relatively low due to thermal effects on cutting tools In response, machine tool

When machining tough materials like titanium, cutting speeds are relatively low due to thermal effects on cutting tools. In response, machine tool builders have improved stiffness and damping on spindles and machine structures over the years. Spindles have been designed with abundant torque at low rotational speeds. Nevertheless, the spindle connection remains the weak link in the system. The spindle connection must provide torque and bending capacity compatible with the machine tool specifications and the requirements for higher productivity. It becomes obvious that in end-milling applications where the projection lengths are typically greater, the limiting factor is bending capacity of the spindle interface. With more materials that are tougher to machine and require considerably higher cutting forces from the machine tool, choosing wisely on the spindle interface to maximize cutting edge performance is the key to success. The KM spindle connections greatly outperform the conventional 7/24 steep taper and its face taper contact derivative. HSK and PSC systems with their greater stiffness advantages help minimize undesirable vibrations, gaining the best possible productivity from the machine tool. The KM4X is the best large, heavy-duty spindle connection, where optimal rigidity is necessary. It has superb balance between bending and torsion capabilities from the machine tool. As an example, an indexable helical cutter with 250mm projection from spindle face and 80mm in diameter generates 4620 Nm of bending moment and less than 900 Nm of torque. Chart shows a comparison of Steep Taper with and without face contact, HSK, and KM4X. 0 600 1200 1800 2400 3000 3600 4200 4800 5400 6000 bending moment (Nm) o 7/24 Taper Size 50 o 24 FaceContact6 50 ° 7/24 TaPer size 60 ♦ HSK100A O KM4X100 □ HSK125A O KM4X125 Kennametal A9 Kennametal KM Quick Change KM4X Features and Benefits Choosing What’s Right