Article From: 11/8/2007 Production Machining
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The multi-layer, nano-structured coatings have a highly wear-resistant base layer adhered to the substrate of the insert with a softer, but tougher IQ Plus sputter coating fused into the surface.
Users of LMT Fette IQ Plus taps for blind and through holes should be able to plan for extended production life of between 30 and 50 percent compared to conventional TiCN coated taps because of a new "intelligent" coating development that adapts to the cutting conditions to provide a more consistent and predictable process.
The multi-layer, nano-structured coatings have a highly wear-resistant base layer adhered to the substrate of the insert with a softer, but tougher IQ Plus sputter coating fused into the surface. Under cutting conditions and following a few passes in contact with the material being processed, the IQ Plus coating is subjected to micron-compression. This has the effect of running in or smoothing the outer coated surface that reduces the co-efficient of friction, which in turn, reduces the torque requirement for the process, according to the company. Both the hard and soft layer then interact to provide a more consistent performance demonstrating lower wear factors on the tool and hence increase the production life.
