Ball nose end mill insert

Abstract

The back surface of a tool insert (12) is provided with a series of axially extending serrations (25) that form a contact surface to mate with similar serrations formed on the mounting surface (23) of a tool mount (13). The tops of the serrations are truncated so that the tapered walls of each serration are in full engagement with the adjacent walls of the mating serration. A threaded fastener (15) secures the insert (12) to the tool mount (13). A projection (18a) on the mounting surface resists axial movement of the insert. The serrations (25) extend toward the base of the insert to prevent lateral displacement resulting from circumferentially applied forces acting on the curved cutting surfaces (12a, 12b, 12c) of the insert. The centering and restraining action of the serrations maintain the inserts in proper alignment even after the mounting surface serrations of the tool mount begin to exhibit wear. The large surface area created by the serrations distributes the operating forces acting on the inserts and reduces localized wear points. The serrations provide large interfacing contact between the inserts and the mounts without resort to over or undersized components that may chatter or break.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.