Wet-Machining Graphite for Moldmakers

GR3, developed between GF Machining Solutions, Fraisa and Blaser Swisslube supports the entire machining process in one setup, optimizing cycle times, lowering tooling costs and other benefits.

Edited by Grace Nehls

Senior Managing Editor, CompositesWorld

Partners GF Machining Solutions, Fraisa and Blaser Swisslube have teamed up to develop a new graphite machining solution for moldmakers. GR3, said to be the answer for wet-machining graphite, supports the entire machining process—from electrodes right through to the finished molds—with a single setup.

The process, which uses an oil film to reduce the degree of contact between the graphite and the tool surface, increases the service life of the tool. The solution also helps moldmakers eliminate costly multi-machine operations, achieve 0.005 tolerances and better part finishes, provides a healthier work environment and optimize cycle times. It is also capable machining graphite, copper and steel on a single machine and without manual intervention.

Blasogrind GTC 7 from Blaser is the ideal coolant for this application. According to Marc Blaser, CEO of Blaser Swisslube, it absorbs the graphite dust, providing a cleaner shop environment and healthier working conditions for machinists. It also optimally protects against tool wear.

GR3 has been subjected to in-depth performance tests and adjustments. In addition to a range of tool coating variants, many different cutting oils were compared against one another during rough cutting and finishing operations.