Mar. 22, 2022
One of the many questions discussed amongst the metalworking industry – which is the ultimate broach cutter? The traditional HSS? Or contemporary TCT?
Preferences and opinions on which is best vary widely, but as leaders in cutting tool innovation, we’re here to state the facts.
So, let’s breakdown the broach cutter dilemma from definitions to conclusion and resolve any quandary one might have about selecting the perfect tool for the job.
HSS
Refers to High Speed Steel.
As the name suggests, these cutters are made of steel and are able to cut through – or broach – most materials except alloy metals such as stainless steel.
TCT
Refers to Tungsten Carbide Tipped.
Tungsten Carbide is one of the hardest materials utilised in cutting tools which gives TCT cutters many advantages over HSS.
HSS Annular Cutter
One of the main advantages using a TCT broaching tool is speed and productivity.
TCT broach cutters operate at an RPM much higher than that of HSS cutters and can therefore produce more holes in equal periods of time. The rate of broaching will differ depending on the tool being used.
In terms of physical properties, tungsten carbide is approximately twice as stiff and dense as steel. This allows a TCT tool to comfortably broach alloys such as stainless steel, cast iron and specific grades of structural steel – something HSS cutters are not designed to do.
The robustness of tungsten carbide also means a longer life expectancy. As leaders in cutting tool innovation, we have designed and developed TCT broaching tools offering an increased life expectancy of up to four times that of HSS tools.
The last difference between the two, and perhaps the most important when making a buying decision, is price. With TCT cutters being the premium option, the price is higher, making HSS cutters the cheaper, more popular alternative.
TCT Annular Cutters
Product range High Speed Steel (HSS) annular cutters as well as Tungsten Carbide Tipped (TCT) annular cutters.
High Speed Steel (HSS) Annular Cutters –
HSS Cobalt 8% Annular Cutters: These annular cutters are made from M42 high speed steel material: The advantage of these cutter compared to HSS Standard annular cutter is that, it can drill harder material, make more holes per cutter, higher strength and robust.
HSS Coated Annular Cutters: These annular cutters are made from M2 high speed steel material and are specially hard coated. The hard coating enables the cutter for more strength, greater heat resistance and specially for achieving higher finish of the hole made.
HSS Standard Annular Cutters: These annular cutters are made from M2 high speed steel material and are the standard choice for drilling normal materials. These cutters are the most economical in price and are the best choice for economical drilling.
Tungsten Carbide Tipped (TCT) Annular Cutters –
TCT Standard Annular Cutters: These annular cutters have the only the tips made of Tungsten Carbide. These cutters are generally used for drilling very hard materials. Its also recommended that above 40 mm diameter one should use TCT cutters.
TCT Coated Annular Cutters: These annular cutters have the only the tips made of Tungsten Carbide and are specially hard coated. The hard coating enables the cutter for more strength, greater heat resistance and specially for achieving higher finish of the hole made.
At Zhuo Tuo, the approach into developing our range of TCT cutters meant innovating – cutting edge – products at affordable prices and uncompromised quality.
With that being said, it is unquestionable that TCT cutters stand superior to HSS, so to those weighing in their options: invest in your tools wisely.
Intrigued? Browse our range of Zhuo Tuo Cutters today.
