Overview

The EPOCH® CFRP series comprises specialized cutting tools designed for machining Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) and honeycomb materials. The series includes four main tool types—ECN-HD, ECW-HD, ECH-SD, and ECX-SD—each optimized for specific machining operations such as roughing, slotting, and trimming. The tools focus on reducing cutting vibrations, improving surface finish, and enhancing machining efficiency.

1. Tool Types and Features

• ECN-HD and ECW-HD: Designed for roughing and semi-finishing, these tools feature diamond coatings for superior wear resistance and longer tool life. Their reverse-helix nick cutting flutes reduce cutting forces and vibrations, suppress burr formation, and improve chip evacuation.
• ECH-SD and ECX-SD: Intended for finishing and trimming, these tools combine sharp cutting flutes with DLC coatings to enhance surface quality and reduce cutting resistance. Unique flute geometries with mixed right and left helix angles suppress burrs on both top and bottom surfaces and prevent chip clogging.

2. Machining Performance and Application Examples

• Significant reduction in cutting vibrations compared to conventional tools, leading to improved machining stability and surface finish.
• Chip removal rates up to 800 cc/min achieved with Ø10 mm tools under specified conditions.
• Typical machining parameters include spindle speeds of 10,000 min⁻¹ and feed rates between 1,000 and 4,000 mm/min under dry cutting conditions.
• Honeycomb materials are effectively machined with ECH-SD tools, yielding good surface finishes.

3. Recommended Cutting Conditions

• Cutting speeds range from 600 to 1,600 m/min depending on tool diameter and coating.
• Feed per revolution varies from 0.03 mm/rev to 0.6 mm/rev based on operation and tool size.
• Depth of cut (ap) and width of cut (ae) are generally set equal to the tool diameter but should be adjusted according to machine and workpiece rigidity.
• Dry cutting is recommended to avoid fire hazards associated with oil-based coolants.

4. Tool Specifications and Availability

The catalog provides detailed specifications including item codes, tool diameters (Ø6 to Ø12 mm), flute lengths, overall lengths, shank diameters, number of flutes, and stock availability. Pricing is listed in Japanese yen excluding tax.

5. Safety and Handling Instructions

• Inspect tools for damage before mounting and ensure secure installation in collet chucks.
• Immediately stop machining if abnormal vibrations or chatter occur and investigate the cause.
• Handle tools carefully to avoid injury from sharp edges; avoid touching flutes with bare hands.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety goggles and use safety covers to protect against flying chips and tool breakage.
• Do not use tools for unintended purposes or in environments with fire or explosion risks.
• Regrinding is possible for certain tool sizes (Ø6 to Ø12 mm) but requires safety precautions due to cobalt content and dust generation.

6. Technical Advantages and Innovations

• Diamond and DLC coatings significantly enhance wear resistance and extend tool life.
• Reverse-helix nick cutting flutes reduce cutting resistance and vibrations, improving surface finish and suppressing burrs.
• Unique flute geometries with mixed helix angles distribute cutting forces and reduce axial resistance, beneficial for thin or vibration-prone workpieces.
• Chip pockets are designed to prevent clogging even at helix transition points.

7. Additional Notes

• Cutting condition tables serve as general guidelines; actual parameters should be adjusted based on machining shape, machine rigidity, and workpiece characteristics.
• If machine spindle speed is insufficient, reduce spindle speed and feed rate proportionally.
• Test data are examples from trials and are not guaranteed values.
• Tool specifications and prices may change without notice for improvements.

8. Contact and Support

Technical consultation is available via toll-free numbers and regional sales offices worldwide, including Japan, Europe, USA, Thailand, and India. Additional resources such as the company website and TOOLSEARCH database support tool selection and technical inquiries.