Modern manufacturing technologies such as HSC (High Speed Cutting), HPC (High Performance Cutting), and HFC (High Feed Cutting) have revolutionized metalworking. These methods enable increased efficiency and quality in machining processes.
High Speed Cutting (HSC)
High Speed Cutting (HSC) refers to machining materials at very high cutting speeds. Typical cutting speeds are many times higher than those used in conventional machining processes (typically in the range of 500 to 5000 m/min). The spindle speeds can reach up to 100,000 RPM. Due to the high cutting speeds, workpieces can be machined faster. The high spindle speed results in a smoother surface, often making additional finishing processes unnecessary. Despite the high cutting speeds, thermal load on the workpiece is often lower, as the chips efficiently dissipate the heat. HSC is frequently used in the aerospace, mold-making, and automotive industries. It is particularly suitable for machining aluminum (Al), titanium, and other difficult-to-machine materials.
High Performance Cutting (HPC)
High Performance Cutting (HPC) refers to machining with optimized cutting parameters to achieve maximum material removal rates. Not only is the cutting speed maximized, but also the feed rate and cutting depth. Through optimized cutting parameters, large amounts of material can be removed in a short time. Depending on the specific conditions and materials, the material removal rate in HPC can range from 200 to 5000 cubic centimeters per minute (cm³/min). The efficiency of the process leads to a reduction in production costs. HPC is suitable for a wide range of materials and applications, and is used in mass production during CNC milling, such as in the automotive and machinery industries, where the goal is fast and efficient machining of large workpieces.
High Feed Cutting (HFC)
High Feed Cutting (HFC) is a machining method that involves very high feed rates, often combined with shallow cutting depths. The tool geometry is specifically designed for high feeds to maximize stability and efficiency. The high feed rates allow large amounts of material to be removed quickly, reducing machining time. The feed rate in HFC typically ranges from 0.5 to 3.0 millimeters per tooth (mm/tooth), but can be higher in specific applications. The specialized tool geometry reduces cutting forces, resulting in longer tool life. HFC allows stable machining even with difficult materials. It is commonly used in heavy machining, such as in mold-making, as well as in mass production. It is particularly suitable for hard and tough materials that require high stability during processing.
The technologies of HSC, HPC, and HFC offer different approaches to improving efficiency and quality in metalworking. While HSC excels in high cutting speeds, HPC maximizes material removal rates through optimized cutting parameters, and HFC achieves high efficiency through high feed rates and specialized tool geometries.