Energy cutting tools
Turbine components, valves, and downhole hardware run in the same nickel super alloys and stainless grades that aerospace engines do — in bigger sections, with heavier cuts. The tooling answer is the same flagship: SPS Super Python, backed by geometries that keep feeds steady where alloys work-harden.
The challenges — and how we cut them
1Nickel alloys that punish every dwell
Inconel work-hardens the instant a tool rubs instead of cuts. The SPS Super Python's variable-helix, all-center-cutting design has delivered up to a 1000% MRR increase in Inconel 718 — keep feeds steady, never let the tool dwell, and use high-pressure coolant where you can.
2Heavy stainless cuts that chatter and glaze
Variable-helix XF/XG geometries in Tuffy-grade carbide break up harmonics in heavy stainless cuts, and honed-edge ST tools handle the finish passes where surface integrity matters.
3Big parts, long cycles, no room for a broken tool
Trochoidal and high-efficiency toolpaths hold engagement constant so tool wear becomes predictable — the difference between scheduled tool changes and a crashed part. Advanced-toolpath setups run a tool sized 50–62% of the slot width at axial depths up to 2× diameter.
The energy toolset
The proof — documented results
- 1000%
- MRR increase — SPS in Inconel 718
- 2× dia
- axial depth with trochoidal engagement
- 40 HRc
- SPS hardness range in steels
Energy machining questions
How do I get metal removal rates up in Inconel 718?
Constant engagement and a tool built for it. RobbJack's SPS Super Python has shown up to a 1000% MRR increase in Inconel 718 versus standard tooling — run trochoidal paths, keep the feed steady, and never let the tool dwell.
What speeds should I start at in nickel super alloys?
Around 100 SFM with chip load near tool diameter × .0036 — the heat goes into the tool, so substrate toughness, AlTiN coating, and rigidity matter more than speed. Confirm exact numbers on the speeds & feeds calculator for your grade.
Do you make tools for our specific valve or turbine feature?
Specials are core business — form tools, reach modifications, and custom geometries quoted from your print through the special-tool quote page.
From the machining lab & case files
Put it on your machine
Send us your toughest energy part. Application engineering will spec the tool and the numbers — or quote a special from your print.