Seco Tools has introduced its expanded range of QuattroMill 45 deg lead facemills in booth E-2445 at IMTS 2006, focusing on the addition of new 15mm inserts (called -15) and a range of both fixed-pocket and cassette-style cutter bodies. The new -15 insert and corresponding cutter bodies extend the range of machining and permit depth of cut of up 0.295in (9.5mm) and feed rates of 0.020in/tooth (0.5mm/tooth). As with the original -09 and -12 (9mm and 12mm) inserts, the new -15 is available in several grades and geometries for the full range of applications in steel, stainless steel, cast iron and numerous exotic and high-temperature alloy materials.

For even greater productivity, the new -15 is also available in a wiper/high feed insert-style for increased feed rates and excellent surface finishes.

Full top CBN inserts with center-lock holes are also available and provide excellent results in hard milling applications.

The new cutter bodies for the -15 are available in coarse, normal and close pitch versions and range in diameter from 2.50 to 20in (63mm to 500mm).

Within that range is a family of cassette cutters from 3 to 20in (80mm to 500mm) that utilize the new -15, but can also hold both -09 and -12 using the same body by just switching the cassettes.

Through coolant is standard on cutters up to 5in (125mm).

All cutter bodies and cassettes feature a unique coating that is extremely hard; greater than 700 Vickers.

The coating adds to wear-resistance and also provides for increased lubricity, enhancing chip flow during operation.

QuattroMill uses strong square inserts with integrated anvils and super positive geometry, up to 35 deg effective rake angle, that allow for milling at very high feed rates as the cutter's super-positive, light cutting geometry generates less force, torque and power consumption.

These characteristics also make QuattroMill cutters an excellent choice for unstable machining conditions including long overhangs or poor fixturing of the work piece.

* About Seco - Seco Tools is part of the Seco Tools AB global organization, a world leader in metalworking technologies, providing solutions for milling, turning, holemaking and threading applications.

The company is committed to solving its customers' ever-increasing demands for greater productivity, quality and cost-effectiveness.

Seco Tools offers its full range of cutting tools and related technologies through a network of more than 400 authorized distributors in the United States, Canada and Mexico.