Lamp Mold Pocket Milling Case

Introduction

When machining pre-hardened mold steels, cutting performance and tool life have a direct impact on production efficiency and overall tooling cost.

In this case study, our APMT1135PDER carbide milling inserts were tested against a well-known international brand during rough milling of a lamp mold pocket made from 718H pre-hardened steel (HRC 38–42).

Workpiece & Cutting Conditions

Workpiece

Material: 718H pre-hardened steel
Hardness: HRC 38–42
Part: Lamp mold (pocket milling)

Machining Setup

Machining method: Dry rough milling of spherical pocket
Cutter body: Ø17, Z2, L65 overhang
Tool holder: BT40
Insert used: APMT1135PDER

Cutting Parameters

Cutting Speed (Vc)	160 m/min
Feed per Tooth (fz)	0.8 mm/z
Axial Depth of Cut (ap)	0.25 mm
Radial Depth of Cut (ae)	10 mm

Cutting Performance

Insert Brand	Tool Life (per edge)	Wear Condition
Our Insert (APMT1135PDER)	91 minutes	Normal wear
Foreign Brand Insert	80 minutes	Normal wear

Key Advantages of Our Insert

Coating Technology: Advanced AlTiN coating with high hardness and excellent adhesion.
Performance: Achieved longer tool life than the foreign brand under dry machining conditions.
Stability: Delivered consistent and stable performance in pre-hardened steel milling with intermittent cutting.

Conclusion

The APMT1135PDER carbide milling insert with AlTiN coating demonstrates reliable tool life and stable cutting performance when rough milling 718H pre-hardened steel.

For mold manufacturers, this means reduced tooling cost and improved productivity compared with leading international brands.