Cutting tools such as centre drills, twist drills, and screwing taps are a great addition to your power machines. However, inappropriate usage of these cutting instruments might be dangerous.
The following safety precautions while using HSS Cutting Tools should be followed
- Wear protective equipment when using cutting tools, e.g. gloves and safety glasses.
- Never use a cutting tool for a task other than what it was designed for.
- Wrap your cutting jaws with a towel or rag because cutting metal can cause the metal to fly, which can hurt others.
- Lubricate the moving parts on your cutter.
- Cautions about handling the components of cutting tools.
- Be cautious while handling large products or huge quantities of heavy materials since carbide tool materials have high specific gravities.
- Compared to metal materials, carbide tool materials exhibit a distinct thermal expansion. As a result, cracking may happen to products that are shrink-fit or cooling-fit if the usage temperature is just a little bit higher (lower) than the stipulated temperature.
- Materials used in cutting tools will lose strength if they corrode as a result of cutting fluid, lubricants, or other moisture. Regarding storage conditions, caution should be exercised.
- The surface conditions of carbide tool materials could cause a minor reduction in strength. Always use a diamond grinder for finishing.
- Dust or mist (smoke) is produced during the grinding or heating of cutting tool materials. It may cause harm to the body if large amounts are swallowed, inhaled, or come into contact with the eyes or skin. Avoid exposing your body to dust or mist when you are machining; it is advised that you utilise localised ventilation equipment and that you wear a protective mask, protective goggles, and protective gloves. Additionally, wash your hands completely with soap and water if the dust etc. comes into touch with them. Avoid eating or drinking in the workplace, and wash your hands beforehand. Avoid shaking out dust from clothing; instead, use a vacuum, etc., to get rid of it or wash the clothing in a washing machine. It has been observed that the skin, respiratory system, heart, and other organs may be affected if the cobalt present in the cutting tool material is contacted often or for an extended period of time.
- The cutting fluid must be disposed of correctly when wet machining carbide tool materials or brazed tools since it may include heavy metals.
- Check to see whether there are any cracks after regrinding a cutting tool product.
- When marking carbide tool material or products with a laser, electric pen, etc., cracks could develop. Don’t highlight any areas that might be under stress.
These safety precautions while using HSS Cutting Tool must be followed on all occasions to prevent any accidents or mishaps.