· KAIPU Engineering · glossary · 1 min read

undefined — Industry Glossary Entry

Definition of built-up edge (BUE) in industrial cutting: weld-like adhesion of substrate material to the cutting edge, a common cause of poor cut quality on stainless, aluminium and gummy plastics.

undefined 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: Burr, Hone (micro-hone), DLC coating.

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