9 ROTARY BURRS – GENERAL HINTS General hints on carbide burrs Carbide Burrs are widely used for preparing and finishing components in a wide range of materials. They are generally used by hand and mounted in air driven die-grinders. Construction and Geometry 1. Toughened and hardened steel shanks improve rigidity and reduce the risk of bending or vibration. 2. Accurately ground shanks improve holding and reduce likelihood of spinning. 3. Special brazing elements prevent high temperature failure and also provide increased strength to withstand pressure and impact. 4. The universal Double Cut (DC) geometry is suitable for a wide range of materials and applications. 5. Material specific geometries are also available suited to Steel (ST), Stainless Steel (VA), Aluminium (AL), Super Alloys (AS) and Fibreglass (GRP). 6. Available with TiAlN coating to increase tool life in abrasive materials. 7. Ball nose burrs are ground with Skip Flute geometry. This provides active geometry towards the centre of the burr, improving the cutting action and reducing the chances of swarf build up and clogging. Skip Normal Safety first 1. High speed rotating tools are hazardous and can be dangerous if miss-used. 2. Always disconnect the die grinder from the air supply before attempting to change the burrs. 3. Check the condition of the die grinder and if possible use low vibration versions. 4. Always use the appropriate protective equipment and ensure anyone working close by is also protected. Personal protective equipment must be worn at all times! 289