free-machining steel
Free-machining steel is defined as a steel that has been metallurgically alloyed with certain elements such as sulfur, phosphorus, lead, etc., to improve machinability. These elements act by reducing friction and resistance during cutting, drilling, or turning, becoming therefore far easier to machine than ordinary steels. It finds applications where high-speed machining and close tolerances are required.
Key Features:
- Greater Machinability: The element such as sulfur, along with others, reduces the wear on the tool and cutting forces.
- Smooth Surface: There is reduced roughness from machining, which in turn reduces secondary operations.
- High Production Efficiency: It is designed to be processed quickly under automatic machining and for mass production.
Free-machining steel becomes of essence in areas where high-speed machining comes into play, such as manufacturing fasteners, fittings, and precision parts. The place it holds in both small- and large-scale operations goes beyond productivity and tooling prices.