Global metal cutting leader Sandvik Coromant introduced a new solid carbide drill optimized for drilling in nickel-based heat-resistant super alloy (HRSA) materials, with a standard drilling depth capability of up to 8 × D.

The new CoroDrill 860 with -SD geometry offers a consistent and predictable tool life with high hole integrity, which is of the utmost importance in industries with extremely high demands and processes in place to safeguard quality, such as the aerospace industry.

Current strategies for drilling nickel-alloy aircraft engine parts, where process security is paramount, cannot meet high demands from the industry and do not offer a maximum tool life. That's where the new CoroDrill 860 with -SD geometry, which is purpose-designed for superior machining of nickel alloys, comes in.

“The CoroDrill 860 with -SD geometry is a reliable drill that guarantees the highest performance and process security for HRSA materials,” says Robert Smith, offer manager for hole making and composites at Sandvik Coromant.

There are several key features that contribute to the high performance for HRSA materials. First is the unique grade — S2BM — which combines a fine-grained cemented carbide substrate, a multilayer PVD coating and a post-treatment, delivering maximum tool life. Additionally, geometry with optimized clearance angles and highly controlled edge preparation, flute shape, corner chamfer and double margin result in a drill that guarantees the highest performance and process security.

Extensive design development and comprehensive product tests in multiple HRSA materials have shown that the CoroDrill 860 with -SD geometry performs consistently in 3, 5 and 8 × D applications, offering excellent machining stability and process security. This makes process planning and cost calculations more reliable when predicting tool life and conducting cost-per-part analysis.

“Customers can be confident that the CoroDrill 860 with -SD geometry is a reliable drill that guarantees the highest performance and process security, delivering the longest possible tool life to reduce the cost per hole and component,” says Smith. “The CoroDrill 860 with -SD geometry is the drill to trust for high-value components.”