Zünd is bringing to market new, diamond-like carbon (DLC)-coated router bits. The coating reduces friction and increases wear resistance in routing applications involving aluminium, aluminium composites, wood, and PVC.
Friction and wear during the routing process substantially affect the quality of cut parts, routing performance, and longevity of bits, says the Swiss digital cutting systems manufacturer.
Thin-film coatings are among the most effective ways to achieve significant improvements in performance and productivity. Innovative DLC (diamond-like carbon) coating permits greater processing speeds and cutting depths. The number of passes can be reduced, which significantly increases routing productivity. Up to 4 mm thick aluminium composites can be processed in a single pass, at speeds of up to 11 m/36 ft per min. In many cases, a finishing pass becomes unnecessary, which further reduces production time.
Because of the resulting smooth, durable surfaces it creates, thin-film coating reduces friction, provides excellent wear resistance, and more than doubles the life of the bit. The same properties also help prevent material build-up on the bit when processing acrylic or aluminium. Reduced drag forces on the material permit routing more detailed contours, and even smaller parts can be routed without the need for bridges to hold them in place.
Smoother surfaces also diminish the amount of heat generated during routing, which eliminates the need for cooling or lubrication. Both aluminium and aluminium-composite panels can be dry routed when using these bits, which facilitates handling and leaves both cut pieces and working area clean and dry.
The new bits are optimized for use with Zünd routing spindles and are available in diameters from 2 to 6 mm and for routing depths up to 22 mm/.87 in. They are also available with stop ring, which makes them suitable for use with the automatic tool changer ARC.
Zünd Systemtechnik AG, a family-owned business with operations worldwide, specializes in developing and manufacturing digital cutting systems.
The Zünd customer base consists of manufacturers and suppliers in many different industries, including graphics, packaging, garment and leather, as well as technical textile and composites. Zünd maintains headquarters in Altstätten, Switzerland, where the company’s R&D, marketing, and production facilities are located.
Zünd is available in Australia through Starleaton.
