Jingwei Textile Machinery Engineer talks about advanced tool application experience

I work for a state-owned large-scale textile machinery manufacturing company that has been in operation for over 60 years. Our company has always focused on developing and producing various types of advanced machinery, especially a series of spinning machines that have enjoyed a strong reputation both domestically and internationally. As the saying goes, “If a worker wants to do good work, he must first sharpen his tools.” The key to improving production efficiency and product precision lies in the effective use of advanced cutting tools, which is essential for meeting the growing demands of modern manufacturing.

Every year, our company spends over two million yuan on tools. When selecting tools, we consider cost-effectiveness and applicability, and we have chosen well-known brands such as Sandvik Coromant from Sweden, Kenner from the U.S., NIKKEN and Mitsubishi from Japan, as well as Zhuzhou Diamond from China. In addition, based on specific processing requirements, we also use specialized tools from other manufacturers, such as Austrian PLANSEE aluminum cutters, Isca cutters, Japanese OSG drills, Swedish mountain high-end milling cutters, and domestic taps. These tools have all shown excellent performance in our production processes.

Industry consensus and economic analysis confirm that tool costs make up only 3% to 5% of the total manufacturing cost of parts. Even if tool prices drop by 30%, the savings would be minimal—only about 1%. However, if we can improve cutting performance by using high-performance tools, increasing machining efficiency by 20%, the cost savings could reach up to 15%. This is because better cutting efficiency reduces energy consumption, machine downtime, labor costs, and overall production costs per unit.

So, how can we enhance the application of advanced tools? Let me share some of our experiences at the Yuji Branch.

Using Advanced Tool Structures We focus on increasing the use of indexable and coated tools, as well as solid carbide tools. Since the introduction of the first Italian CNC machining center in the 1980s, we've continuously explored and improved our tool application techniques. Today, indexable and coated tools account for 80% of our metal cutting operations. These tools offer high-speed, high-precision, and high-efficiency machining capabilities. Coated tools provide high surface hardness, wear resistance, and stability under harsh conditions. Their effective use has laid a solid foundation for our success in producing high-quality textile machinery.

We started using carbide drills early on. Initially, it was believed that drilling required low feed rates and cutting speeds, which was true when using conventional twist drills. But with the advent of cemented carbide drill bits, the approach changed. By selecting the right carbide drill, we significantly improved productivity and reduced the cost per hole.

Our company uses three main types of carbide drills: solid carbide drills, carbide indexable inserts, and welded carbide drills. Each type is optimized for different processing conditions. Solid carbide drills not only boost production efficiency but also reduce machine time and manufacturing costs. Their long service life and wear resistance help lower tool costs. In recent years, we’ve also achieved great results using solid carbide end mills.

Adopting New Tool Material Grades New tool material grades are designed to better match workpiece materials and cutting conditions. In modern manufacturing, materials vary widely—from steel and non-ferrous metals to heat-resistant alloys and synthetic materials. Each material has different machinability, even within the same category. For example, ferritic and austenitic stainless steels differ in their ease of machining. Therefore, choosing the right tool grade is like prescribing the correct medicine. Additionally, for different processes like turning, milling, or drilling, and varying cutting conditions such as high-speed finishing or low-speed roughing, appropriate grades must be selected to achieve optimal results.

New grades are often developed to increase cutting efficiency by more than 20%. It’s crucial for us to identify and apply these new grades promptly to maintain and improve our cutting efficiency.

Strengthening Collaboration with Tool Manufacturers To elevate our tool application and processing efficiency, we rely heavily on the support of tool manufacturers. Modern tool companies hold extensive cutting technology resources and are committed to helping users improve their processing efficiency. They are professional teams in the field of cutting technology. With strong R&D capabilities, substantial investment, advanced equipment, and modern management practices, they drive the development of cutting technologies. By working closely with them, we can enhance our tool application level, improve efficiency, and shorten delivery times. This is a key strategy used by foreign tool users to gain a competitive edge, and we should follow this example.

Chinese tool manufacturers should further evolve their business models, leverage their strengths in materials, coatings, and tool design, and actively provide technical support and after-sales services to users. Becoming a reliable partner is essential for building long-term trust.

With the rapid development of the domestic machinery industry, we are facing both challenges and opportunities. To stay competitive, we must update our mindset and embrace advanced tools to optimize processing, improve product accuracy, increase productivity, reduce costs, and shorten delivery times. We will continue to invest in CNC equipment and advanced tools to drive the company’s sustainable growth.