Slotcutting

Slotcutting is a manufacturing process used to create precise slots or grooves in a material. Typically performed using a rotating cutting tool, such as a milling cutter or a slitting saw, slotcutting is essential for a wide range of applications. The depth, width, and position of the slot are carefully controlled by the machine and the tooling used.

The process involves the material being fed against the rotating cutting tool, or the tool being moved through the stationary material. Common materials for slotcutting include metals, plastics, and wood. The accuracy of the slotcutting process is crucial, as slots often serve as guides, channels for fasteners, or areas for material to interlock.

Different types of slotcutting operations exist, depending on the desired outcome. Keyseating is a specific form of slotcutting used to create keyways in shafts, allowing for the secure attachment of gears or pulleys. Slitting is another related process, often used to cut thin slots or to divide a workpiece into multiple parts. The choice of cutting tool, speed, feed rate, and coolant are all important factors that influence the quality and efficiency of the slotcutting operation. Advancements in CNC (Computer Numerical Control) technology have significantly improved the precision and repeatability of slotcutting processes.