Application of Abrasive Sand Blasting Process in Micro Geometrical Cutting Edge Optimization

Preliminary notes This paper aims to establish the parameters of optimization and geometrical improvements for the micro-geometry of solid carbide drills through the application of sand blasting process. The effects of sand blasting over the cutting edge and also upon the micro geometry of the tool body are to be taken into consideration. This process is one of the most common ones used in the solid carbide tool fabrication, being implemented in various ways, not always achieving the best results. The micro geometrical optimization of the cutting edge is concentrated on two important parameters, edge radius and K-factor alignment, both of these having a critical role in the tool life and over the cutting parameters. The improvement of this optimization process can also be achieved by combining it with other known processes aiming at the same result.