Tungaloy’s new tool series, slim design to avoid collisions with adjoining tools

November 9, 2022

Grooving and threading tool series for CNC automatic lathes “ MiniV-LockGroove”

Tungaloy has introduced MiniV-LockGroove groove and thread turning tool series designed specifically for use on Swiss-type automatic lathes. The new groove and thread turning tools include 8×8, 10×10, and 12×12 millimeter square shanks that are commonly used on those machines.

Triangular “on-edge” inserts are a popular choice for grooving operations on Swiss-type automatic lathes due to their economical cost per edge. However, being held vertically in the toolholder via a horizontal screw, this type of insert inherently adds to the cutting head size of the toolholders, compared with double-ended parallelogram or dog-bone style counterparts. A large cutting head is likely to collide with the adjacent tools mounted in the positions on the tool post, requiring them to be removed and left open to avoid collision. This decreases the number of tools that can, otherwise, be fully used in the operation.

MiniV-LockGroove features a unique V shape insert with two cutting edges. With a flat and slim overall tool design, MiniV-LockGroove eliminates the concerns of tool collision when mounted on the tool post.

The MiniV-LockGroove insert design allows the insert top side to be retained at the optimal location much closer to the cutting edge, enabling stable, chatter-free precision grooving operations. Furthermore, the insert pocket that has the matching shape to encompass the V shape insert is designed with an ample backing material that securely supports the insert and retain in place, providing high tool rigidity and reliability during machining.

The grooving inserts are available for groove widths ranging from 0.33 to 1.00 millimeters (from .013 to .039 inches). The threading inserts are offered for 55- and 60-degree thread profiles. The toolholders come in 8×8, 10×10, and 12×12 millimeter square shanks in metric and 3/8 and 1/2 inch square shanks in imperial, with the capability of high pressure through-coolant. MiniV-LockGroove is also available in ModuMiniTurn modular tooling system that streamlines tool changeovers and helps reduce machine downtime in Swiss-type automatic lathes.

For more information about the product: https://tungaloy.com/product/grooving/miniv-lockgroove/