Kennametal’s HiPACS for Aerospace Fastener Hole Drilling and Countersinking in One Step

Pittsburgh, USA – Kennametal Inc has introduced the HiPACS drilling and countersinking system for aerospace fastener holes in one operation, significantly reducing cost per hole. The high-precision tool meets the aerospace industry’s stringent accuracy requirements while delivering increased tool life in machining composite, titanium, and aluminum aircraft skins.

The HiPACS modular system is designed to be clamped in a standard hydraulic chuck and comprises three simple components that are fast and easy to assemble, eliminating the need for bespoke tooling. First, a reducer sleeve with a built-in high-precision pocket seat that, when combined with a standard hydraulic chuck, provides ultra-secure clamping and a runout of no more than 3µm, considerably boosting tool life and hole quality. Second, a PCD countersinking insert, which eliminates the need for costly custom solution step drills, lowering manufacturing costs while meeting the industry’s accuracy requirements. Last, the two series of solid carbide drills – both diamond-coated and PCD-tipped – cover all material combinations found in a typical aerospace assembly, and the straight shanked tools allow for length adjustments in 10mm increments.

The latest HiPACS drilling, and the countersinking system can be employed on any machine that is commonly used in aerospace applications. Diamond-coated carbide drills provide exceptional tool life and hole quality in less stable environments, such as robot end effectors. PCD-tipped drills, on the other hand, perform admirably in stable conditions such as gantry machines. It can be used on any CNC machine and has an industry-standard interface, making it appropriate for a wide range of applications.

“Most fastener hole tools used today are complex made-to-order tools with long lead times,” said Georg Roth, Product Manager, Kennametal. “HiPACS uses standard, off-the-shelf components for quick delivery and low cost per hole, by allowing the drill and chamfer insert to be indexed independently from one another. What’s more, it’s the only indexable drilling and countersinking system on the market that can hold the aerospace industry’s required fastener hole chamfer tolerances in just one operation.”

Image Source: Kennametal Inc