Tungsten Radiation Shielding Machining

High-density tungsten radiation shielding is extremely strong and durable (typical hardness ranges from 24-32 RC), so it has a good machinability. Tungsten has low-thermal expansion rate and resistance to breakage and chipping allow you to achieve very close tolerances and hold fine finishes.

There are some main machining processes for tungsten radiation shielding:

Turning: Positive rake tooling is suggested. Seco triangle inserts TPG432 or TPG431 grade 883.

Drilling: Carbide tooling is suggested. Increased clearance angles and automatic feeds are often used to avoid binding and seizing. Carbide drills will give a better tool life.

Milling: Premium uncoated end mills with a regular spiral such as SGS. Insert cutters; use square multi-edge or single edge cutters, such as KC730. Also can use positive rake octagon cutters, such as Seco grade 883.

Cutting: When sawing, use a bi-metal blade; blade pitch should be relative to the thickness of the material. Material can also be cut using high-speed abrasive cutoff wheels.

Threading: when it needs to be assembled, thread is required. Carbide tool is suggested.

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