Based on investigations in which the main error drivers on part quality were identified, especially improvements in the tooling sector have become necessary. This comprises the development of appropriate grinding techniques for the manufacture of high precision cutting edges with optimum micro-geometry such as edge hones and chamfers or combinations of both.
Test on insert clamping and tool design for high precision tools have revealed the necessity for improvements also in this sector. Investigations were performed in the optimum design of the insert pocket and the performance of tool holder made of high-density material. Beyond this internally cooled tool holders were manufactures for testing. Another focus lay on the development of tool holders for machining of small bores and the test of their performance. Design guidelines have been set up for the development and manufacture of suitable tooling.
New prototype holders have been developed, which are made of high-density material and which perform well also in industrial applications. Prototype holders, which have an internal cooling, led to a reduction of the thermal expansion of the tool during cutting. New tools for the machining of small bores have been developed, which allow better qualities and a more reliable hard turning process in that field of application. Also the improvements made regarding the cutting edge preparation are taken into account at these tools.