Advantages of Using Carbide Cutting Tools
Cost-Effective
Initially, the cost of switching over to these tools can seem expensive and unnecessary. However, over time you will wind up saving a lot of money, which is why they are such an excellent investment.
But why are carbide cutting tools better than HSS? It comes down to heat and general wear and tear.
Carbide (either tungsten or titanium) is much better at dissipating heat than steel. Thus, when using these tools, you don’t have to stop as often to allow the machinery to cool off. Also, this dissipation helps the material stay stronger because it doesn’t change the structure of the metal.
The other reason that carbide cutting tools are cost-effective is that they last longer when compared to steel. For the most part, titanium carbide tips are going to offer the most mileage and cutting power, so it may be worth the additional expense.
Easy Replacement
As we mentioned, carbide-tipped cutting tools are much better than solid carbide options. One of the primary reasons we prefer the former is that it’s easier to replace the tips than it is to buy a whole new tool.
When using solid carbide, it can fracture, which means that you have to find a replacement right away. However, when you have a tipped model instead, all it takes is grinding off the old carbide and renewing with a fresh layer. You can still keep the integrity of the tool intact, and the process is much cheaper in the long run.
Overall, carbide-tipped cutting tools have much lower maintenance costs and issues, which is why they are so effective.
Cleaner Cuts and Finishes
One crucial element of a carbide cutting tool is that the edge is going to stay sharper for longer. Unlike steel that can wear down almost immediately, the carbide won’t break down or start to get dull for a while.
Because it maintains a sharper edge, that also means that you get a cleaner, neater finish. Whether cutting hardwood or metal, having cleaner results will save you both time and money. Rather than having to buff the imperfections out after the fact, your pieces are going to be ready for service almost immediately.
Also, when cutting wood, carbide tools don’t damage the grain as much either. Compared to steel, you are going to get a lot better results with carbide.
Longer Lasting
When you combine the durability of steel with the expert finishing power of carbide, you get a tool that is built to last. We already mentioned that you can replace tips without swapping out for a new tool, so a high-quality carbide-tipped model is going to outlast even the best HSS option.
Once again, the investment for changing over to carbide may seem pricey at first, but you are getting a lot of value in the end, making it a much better choice for any manufacturer.
