Metalworking lathes, shapers, and planers rely heavily on a one-of-a-kind cutting apparatus: the sturdy tool bit. It’s different than multipoint cutting tools and commonly referred to as the single-point variety.
The power behind a tool bit lies at its tip–where “tool bit” and “cutting tool” can be used interchangeably. Though typically miniscule in size to fit into hand-held tool holders, multi-pointed cutting tools are quite the opposite. These larger tools are driven by powerful machine spindles.
To clarify, the process of threading is an example of the application of tool bits; threading dies are its byproduct. To cut and remove metal from a piece of material, be it in a lathe, shaper, or planer, tool bits are the implements put into play.
The sharpened point of a tool bit is where all the action takes place. Tool bits and cutting tools can be seen as effectively synonymous terms. As they are typically held by hand and passed through a tool holder, these bits tend to come in smaller sizes. By contrast, multi-point cutting tools tend to be larger and are, instead, powered by the spindles of machine tools.
Tool bits come in a range of materials, the most familiar being high-speed steel (HSS) and tungsten carbide (WC). HSS projects might, robustness, heat performance and a significant resistance to erosion; however it is not quite as hard as WC and will call for sharpening more often. WC appears to be exceptionally firm and maintains its cutting edge much longer than HSS, however it can be prone to fracturing if treated improperly.
To perform its job correctly, the geometry of a tool bit must be considered. Most often, it will be square, round, or triangular. In order for it to remain effective, it needs regular sharpening. This can be done by utilizing a grinding wheel or a sharpening stone.
An appropriate cutting edge angle is key; having a tool bit with a sharp, acute angle will promote swiftness but make it wear down faster. On the other hand, if your tool bit has a more obtuse angle, it can help the blade maintain its sharpness longer despite cutting slower.
Depending on the metal and the finish sought, selecting the material and shape of a tool bit can vary dramatically. High speed steel, for instance, is optimal for achieving a smooth result when slicing soft metals like aluminum, while tungsten carbide is a more effective choice for hard metals like steel.
To conclude, tool bits and threading dies are not one and the same. The latter are crafted from tool bits, which are handheld cutting tools used in various machines such as lathes and shapers, used to remove metal from a workpiece. Tool bits and cutting tools can be considered alike, as they both have the cutting edge as their primary goal. Various materials are used for making these tools, the most popular being high-speed steel and tungsten carbide. It is vital that the geometry of the bit is correct, as well as the angle of the cutting edge it features.