glossary
Built Up Edge — Industry Glossary Entry
Definition of built-up edge in industrial cutting: weld-like adhesion of substrate material to the cutting edge, a common cause of poor cut quality on.
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Built Up Edge is weld-like adhesion of substrate material to the cutting edge of a knife. The substrate material transfers to the edge, builds up, and then periodically breaks off, taking a small piece of the edge with it. The cut surface shows scratches, tears or roughness; the edge has a “frosted” appearance.
Common causes
- Austenitic stainless (304, 316) at 200–500 m/min: nickel in the substrate catalyses BUE
- Aluminium: low melting point, the substrate welds to the edge
- Gummy plastics (LDPE, soft PVC, rubber): high friction at the cut
- Insufficient lubrication or coolant
- Edge too sharp (0–2 µm hone)
Fixes
- Apply a low-friction coating (DLC for stainless, ta-C for aluminium)
- Increase edge hone (5–10 µm minimum)
- Improve coolant delivery (flood, not mist, 5+ bar)
- Drop the rake angle (more positive rake increases BUE)
- Consider M2 HSS or M42 HSS at HRC 64 instead of D2
See also.
