During recent tooling trials on 304L Stainless Steel Nozzle Rings project Engineer; Neil Armstrong tested the innovative 60 degree Index able Engraving tooling from Taiwanese manufacturer Nine9.
Part codes have to be clearly identified on every nozzle ring in order to adhere to stringent identification requirements. The quantity of such parts going through the production facility is on average 6,000 per week and therefore cost effective tooling must be implemented. 
“We have to have reliable tooling that delivers a combination of both tool life and burr free lettering”, explains Armstrong. “When we tested the Nine9 engraving tooling the results were terrific”.
Running the 60 degree Index able coated carbide insert at 8000rpm and 240mm/min feed rate with a 0.2mm D.O.C  the insert achieved a staggering 250 minutes contact cutting time.
Neil comments, “That by slowing the entry feed to 40mm/min reduces the pressure on the 0.2 insert nose radius and therefore has a significant effect on achieving such excellent results”.
TWL has since implemented “Best Tool Practise” introducing the Nine9 Engraving tooling throughout its extensive machining facility in Huddersfield.