Liquid nitrogen helps slice through metals

An unconventional solution to metals cutting has been devised by Air Products, Lehigh Valley, Pa. (www.airproducts.com). Called Icefly machining technology, it uses a small amount of liquid nitrogen, aimed directly at a cutting tool, to rapidly remove heat and strengthen the cutting insert. The nitrogen gas vaporizes, eliminating coolant residue on parts and equipment. It is designed for hardto-machine materials such as titanium, hardened steels, and ferrous powdered metal. It is said to reduce tooling costs and machine downtime for tool changeovers. The ability to offset extreme temperatures normally generated during machining of hard materials lets manufacturers machine in the fully hardened condition, potentially eliminating processing steps such as heat treating.