The heel in a single point cutting tool is the specific point where the flank of the tool intersects with its base.
Understanding the Heel of a Cutting Tool
A single point cutting tool is a fundamental instrument used in various machining operations like turning, milling, and shaping, where a single, active cutting edge performs the material removal. To effectively use these tools, it's essential to understand their distinct parts.
The heel is a critical geometric feature located at the bottom rear of the cutting end of the tool. It is precisely the intersection of the flank and the base of the tool.
- Flank: The flank refers to the surface or surfaces of the tool that lie below and behind the cutting edge. Its primary role is to provide essential clearance between the tool and the workpiece, preventing the tool from rubbing against the machined surface and ensuring smooth chip flow.
- Base: The base is the bottom-most part of the tool's shank. This robust surface is designed to rest securely in the tool holder and is crucial for absorbing and transmitting the significant tangential forces generated during the cutting process.
Thus, the heel marks the point where the clearance surface of the tool transitions into the part that provides structural support and withstands cutting forces.
Key Components of a Single Point Cutting Tool
To further contextualize the heel, here are other important components of a single point cutting tool:
| Part | Description |
|---|---|
| Nose | The very tip of the cutting tool, formed by the intersection of the side cutting edge and the end cutting edge. It influences surface finish and tool strength. |
| Shank | The main body of the tool, typically square or rectangular, which is securely clamped within the machine's tool holder. |
| Base | The bottom surface of the shank, providing stability and bearing the tangential forces during machining operations. |
| Flank | The relief surface below and behind the cutting edges, crucial for preventing interference between the tool and the workpiece. |
Understanding the precise function and location of each part, including the heel, is vital for optimizing tool performance, ensuring dimensional accuracy, and achieving desired surface finishes in machining.
