Cubic Boron Nitride (CBN) is a synthetic superhard abrasive material, engineered as an alternative to diamond-based tools like PCD. Unlike PCD, which is ideal for non-ferrous materials, CBN is designed for machining hard ferrous metals, making it the preferred choice for cutting the hardest materials such as hardened steels and cast iron. With exceptional heat and wear resistance due to its oxidation resistance , CBN tools maintain their cutting edges at high temperatures, delivering longer tool life and increased efficiency in demanding applications. Industries such as automotive and precision engineering rely on CBN tools for machining hardened components that conventional carbide tools cannot handle as effectively
CBN tools are designed with the right mechanical properties for machining hardened steels and cast iron, offering superior wear resistance, thermal conductivity and thermal stability where carbide struggles. They maintain sharp cutting edges at extreme temperatures, making them ideal for high-hardness materials (above 50 HRC). Unlike carbide, CBN extends tool life in demanding applications, reducing downtime and improving efficiency. However, CBN is not suitable for steels below 50 HRC because the material lacks the necessary hardness to allow the cutting edge to engage effectively. In softer metals, CBN tools experience excessive rubbing instead of shearing, leading to inefficient cutting and reduced tool performance.
CBN tools should only be used in mechanical applications where hardness and thermal stability is critical.
Commonly machined materials include:
Due to their wear resistance, chemical stability and heat stability, CBN tools are ideal for high-speed machining, hard turning, and finishing operations. They provide superior tool life compared to carbide in hard-to-machine materials, reducing downtime and improving process efficiency. CBN is frequently used in automotive powertrain machining, particularly for gear components, brake discs, camshafts, and crankshafts, where maintaining tight tolerances is essential.
CBN tools are predominantly used in the automotive industry, where machining hardened components is essential for performance and longevity.
Here are some potential applications:
CBN tools are widely used for machining hardened steel gears, camshafts, crankshafts, and brake discs, ensuring superior wear resistance and extended component life.
Used in applications where extreme hardness, heat resistance, and high-precision tolerances are required.
CBN tools are used in the finishing of cast iron components, where they provide improved surface quality and extended tool life compared to carbide alternatives.
Exactaform specialises in bespoke CBN tooling solutions tailored for hard metal machining. Our high-performance tools are engineered to provide precision, durability, and extended tool life, helping manufacturers reduce cycle times and improve machining efficiency.
With extensive expertise in CBN cutting tools, Exactaform delivers custom and standard solutions optimised for machining hardened materials. Our expert team of engineers design and draw bespoke tools to ensure quality and performance, while our technical team provides strategic advice to help you optimise machining processes and select the best tooling solutions.