Improved machinability to billets for forging

Citation

(1999), "Improved machinability to billets for forging", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 46 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/acmm.1999.12846fad.007

Improved machinability to billets for forging

Improved machinability to billets for forging

Keywords: Sandvik, Stainless steel, Forging

Sandvik Steel considers that improving the machinability of stainless steel, withoutaffecting properties such as corrosion resistance and strength, has been one of its most significant and recent success stories. "Sanmac" stainless steel is already said to be selling in large volumes in the form of bar and hollow bar and Sandvik now reports that it is now offering the same benefits and properties in round and square billets used to manufacture components by forging (Plate 2).

Plate 2The manufacture of billets at Sandvik Steel, Sandviken, Sweden

According to Sandvik, in production tests on ANSI 16.5 forged flanges, involving two turning operations, a comparison between standard stainless steel AISI 316L and SANMAC 316L showed tool life improvements between 20 per cent and 80 per cent depending on the type of turning method. Also a lower tool wear, higher cutting speeds could be achieved. Sandvik also claims the benefit of consistent machining by supplying the same material properties from delivery to delivery, batch to batch.

Sanmac improved machinability billets are available in austenitic stainless steel grades Sanmac 304/304L, 316/316L and duplex stainless steel grade SAF2205.

A new eight-page technical brochure on its total supply and size range capability for billets for forging has recently been issued.

It focuses on the benefits of Sanmac improved machinability stainless steel with illustrations of machining test results and provides recommendations of cutting speeds and, where appropriate, feed rates for turning, drilling and sawing operations. The machining recommendations have been compiled in collaboration with Sandvik Coromant - the world's leading producer of cemented carbide tools.

Also included in the brochure are specification and chemical composition details for other steel grades available. Sandvik produces billets in a wide range of austenitic, high alloyed austenitic, nickel alloy and duplex stainless steels. Copies of the new brochure can be obtained from Sandvik Steel.

Further details are available from Sandvik Steel. Tel: +44 (0) 1922 728800; Fax: +44 (0) 1922 728827.