Cutting tools: definition, history and areas of application
What are cutting tools?
Cutting tools are specialized tools used in manufacturing industry are used to remove material by cutting, drilling, Milling, and sanding to remove. These tools are essential for processes in which workpieces are brought into the desired shape through mechanical processing. The most well-known cutting tools include End mills, drills, saw blades, taps, reamers and Messerköpfe. Each of these tools is specifically designed for specific tasks and is made from high-strength materials such as Sstainless steel (HSS) or carbide manufactured to ensure efficiency and durability.
Development of cutting tools
The history of cutting tools goes back a long way and is closely linked to the development of metalworking and mechanics connected. Even in ancient times, craftsmen used simple tools made of stone, bone and later metal to cut and shape materials. With the industrial revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries, which was driven by the introduction of the steam engine, the capabilities and complexity of cutting tools increased. Modern machining technology, which works precisely and at a high technical level, is the result of centuries of development and innovation, including the integration of computer technology and automated manufacturing systems.
Uses and areas of application
Cutting tools are essential in many manufacturing industries. Here are the main uses and areas of use:
- drills: To create round holes in various materials. They are used in various shapes, such as twist drills and center drills.
- end mill: Used in metal processing to mill complex profiles and surfaces. They are available in shapes such as flat, ball and radius cutters.
- saw blades: For sawing or cutting materials, varies in tooth shape, size, and material for specific applications such as wood or metal saws.
- taps: For cutting internal threads into the walls of holes, essential for many assembly tasks in industries such as automotive engineering and aviation.
- reamers: To refine and increase the surface area of holes to achieve exact tolerances, important in metal manufacturing for precise fits.
- Messerköpfe: Used in milling machines for face milling large surfaces. Knife heads are known for their high cutting performance and efficiency and can process a wide range of materials.
Thanks to their diverse range of applications, cutting tools play a central role in modern manufacturing technology, enable precise and efficient processing of workpieces and contribute to the production of complex and high-quality products. From the automotive industry to mechanical engineering to aerospace technology, cutting tools are a cornerstone of the manufacturing industry, whose development and refinement are constantly progressing.