Slitting tools are necessary for a variety of punching and machining processes. They must be durable and survive unbalanced punching loads and the impact of high-speed operations. A robust slitting tool can reduce tooling costs, increase press productivity, and improve the punching process.
Generally, a slitting tool includes a recessed area on the top surface of the body. Slitter knife This recessed area may be a series of rounded steps or a shallow “V” shaped groove. Alternatively, the recessed area may be located on another surface of the slitting tool. The recessed area accommodates various lead sizes, including small, medium, and significant leads. In addition, the recessed area may include a gripping member.
The gripping member may be a ring-like device. This device is designed to hold the lead in place while enhancing the stability and comfort of the slitting procedure. It may be formed from an adhesive overmolding material, such as a low-durometer polymer. If desired, the overmolding material may be textured.
The slitting tool can be used with a thumb or finger other than the thumb. It may be adapted to be held with the palm facing inward. During the slitting procedure, the user can apply downward pressure on the slitting tool to maintain the lead in place. Another gripping feature of the slitting tool may be a nose portion.
In one embodiment, the cutting member is a blade with a shallow angle of between 15 and 45 degrees. The angled blade allows for the smoother cutting action. Generally, the cutting member is sharp, and thus the punching force will be less than a conventional tool with a more curved blade. Despite this benefit, the prior art slitting tool may require more work.
In addition to the tacky over-molding, the slitting tool may have a softer overmolding area located over the remainder of the slitter body. This overmolding area may be made from a low-durometer polymer or aromatic polyurethane.
Moreover, the slitting tool may include a recessed area adapted to receive a thumb or a finger. This feature provides an intuitive grasp for the user.
Other features of the slitting tool include a nose section and a channel. The nose section has a front surface of 54 and an inner surface of 56. Both of these surfaces are coupled to the cutting member 60. There is a recessed area of 70 on the top surface of 52 of the slitting tool. Depending on the shape of the recessed area, channel 72 may extend into the recessed area or be positioned on another surface of the slitting machine. Channel 72 is sized to be suitable for a range of lead diameters.
Textured ridges may also characterize the recessed area. These ridges provide a more intuitive grasp for the user. As with the recessed area, the textured ridges are designed to accommodate a range of lead diameters.