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  1. CNC Milling vs. CNC Turning

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    CNC

    Multiple CNC machining processes are available for part production, including CNC milling and turning. Although both are subtractive machining techniques involving material removal, their working principles, outcomes, and advantages differ. Understanding CNC milling vs. turning will help you determine the best option for your specific project needs and designs. At a high level the milling part is stationary, the lathe part is turning. Milling is for not round parts. Turning is for round parts.

    Understanding CNC Milling

    With CNC milling, multi-point cutting tools rotate at high speeds against a workpiece to remove material and ultimately shape a part. The process begins with a CAD design, which is converted into computerized instructions that the equipment interprets to guide tool movement. Once the tooling is in the appropriate starting position and a clamp, vise, or fixture plate is holding the workpiece securely in place, you’re ready to start. At a preset feed rate and speed, the tooling gradually cuts away excess material as it rotates with multi-axis motion across the workpiece, producing the desired shape and design details.

    Milling machines typically have three-, four-, or five-axis operational capabilities, enabling manufacturers to create unique profiles and handle complex detailing like contours and pockets. CNC milling is highly efficient and effective, then, in industries that require precision, like automotive, aerospace, and healthcare devices. It’s also perfect for applications like prototyping and custom manufacturing.

    Advantages of CNC Milling

    With CNC milling, you’ll benefit from the following:

    • Shape flexibility. CNC milling can produce parts with complex geometries, making it a good choice for custom work and product designs ranging from simple to intricate.
    • High-precision automation. As CNC milling is an automated process, its results are precise and repeatable, generating high-quality, identical parts without human error.
    • Material compatibility. This process is compatible with various plastics, metals, alloys, ceramics, and composites, giving it impressive application versatility.
    • Cost-effective production. CNC milling supports both prototyping and large-scale manufacturing affordably.
    • Smooth surface finishes. Although products may necessitate minimal post-processing to remove tool marks, machined part surfaces are generally smooth.
    • Multi-part Machining – multiple parts can be milled at the same time
    • Ability to do non-symmetrical shapes
    • Offset or angled holes

    Understanding CNC Turning

    CNC drilling machines feed rotating, single-point drill bits axially into a workpiece to remove material and produce holes of a precise diameter and depth. A spindle on these machines is responsible for holding the drill bits and causing the necessary high-speed rotational motion. The bits themselves vary in shape and size depending on the required hole dimensions and the material construction of the workpiece.

    This process is important in industries for which accurate hole sizing and placement are crucial to components and assemblies, like engine parts for the automotive sector and circuit boards for electronics manufacturing. CNC drilling has the capacity for large-scale production, allowing manufacturers to create holes quickly without sacrificing precision or uniformity.

    Advantages of CNC Turning

    The CNC turning process offers:

    • Superior hole accuracy. CNC drilling delivers more precise, repeatable hole dimensions than traditional drilling techniques.
    • Cost-effectiveness for large production runs. Its efficiency makes it an economical choice for mass production.
    • Rapid yet consistent operation. This method executes repetitive drilling tasks quickly and reliably.
    • Variety of hole diameters and depths. CNC drilling can produce holes in diameters ranging from 4 centimeters down to a few millimeters and depths reaching 2600 millimeters.
    • Broad material compatibility. CNC drilling, similarly to the milling process, is applicable for an array of materials.

    Contact the Experts at Fisher Barton

    The right process for you will depend on your specific project requirements and what part shapes or features you hope to achieve. Collaborating with a trusted CNC machining expert will help ensure you’re taking the most efficient and cost-effective approach.

    For over half a century, Fisher Barton has offered high-quality precision machining solutions tailored to the requirements of the many markets we serve. Our world-class team applies their knowledge of material behavior along with Fisher Barton’s proprietary solutions for heat treating and thermal spraying to achieve products of the highest quality — all made in America!

    Our specialty is high-wear components, with an emphasis on quality production to enhance part longevity. In addition to CNC milling and turning, we excel at such processes as forming, bending, stamping, cutting, casting, and welding.

    Discover the Fisher Barton difference today. Contact our team to discuss your project needs or learn more about our machining capabilities.

  2. Factors to Consider When Choosing a CNC Machining Partner

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    Factors to Consider When Choosing a CNC Machining Partner

    No two CNC machining partners will produce the same results, even if their listed capabilities and specifications are identical. Manufacturers specialize in different machining styles, industries, materials, and components. Providers can also vary in terms of quality control, compliance with certain industry standards, and lead time.

    At Fisher Barton, we’re committed to providing quality services and products with every order. Our focus on material sciences and our unique methodology, called Metallurgy Mastered, guarantees that we can offer superior production capabilities for parts with complex geometries. Driven by our culture of continuous innovation, we bring over a century of machining and metallurgical experience to every project.

    To find your ideal CNC machining partner, consider the following most important factors and learn how Fisher Barton satisfies every criterion.

    Factors to Consider

    Machining partners need to meet specific criteria to successfully serve your organization. For example, you may need quick production cycles during peak seasons, or you may frequently need custom machining and prototyping services for new projects. Use these four factors to start building your list of necessary criteria.

    Capabilities

    Each CNC machining partner brings different skills and equipment to the table. Similar to hiring a new employee, take the time to interview each company to ensure you’re getting the best value and capabilities for your money. During your interviews, ask about:

    • How long they’ve provided CNC machining services
    • Their experience in your specific industry or market niche
    • What equipment they use and what volumes they can achieve
    • If they have past customers you can talk to

    At Fisher Barton, we have over 100 years of metallurgical and machining experience and offer everything from prototyping to full-scale production.

    Experience

    CNC machining requires skilled machinists and high-quality equipment. The more years of experience your prospective machining partners have, the better. Your ideal services provider should have extensive experience in your industry and with the machines they use. Choosing your CNC machining partner based on experience provides these advantages:

    • Less risk of subpar components that don’t meet specifications and must be scrapped
    • Reduced material waste due to rework
    • Faster project completion
    • Better overall product quality

    Fisher Barton invests in our in-house Fisher Barton Technology Center to continuously develop our understanding of new materials. Our R&D engineers use advanced analytical tools to study tool steel, high-carbon steels, ceramics, titanium, and more. We also have years of experience with advanced coating solutions that provide dielectric strength, thermal protection, and increasingly powerful resistance against corrosion and wear damage.

    Price

    Price is another important consideration. While production needs to be cost-effective and stay within project budgets, simply choosing the lowest available price can negatively affect product quality, reliability, or customer service. Instead of gauging cost in isolation, companies should assess the overall value that prospective machining partners provide.

    Consider competitively priced machining services from Fisher Barton. We’re continually developing products that last longer and provide superior performance throughout their lifespan, which reduces long-term maintenance costs, downtime, and replacements.

    Reliability

    The right machining partner will also offer reliability in terms of customer service and order fulfillment. Indications of excellent reliability include:

    • Fast communication and response times
    • Prioritization of your timeline and product needs throughout process selection, material selection, and production timetable
    • Ability and willingness to accommodate unique project requirements
    • Consistent adherence to precise specifications with tight tolerances

    By interviewing your potential machining partners and researching their past performance, you can accurately judge their commitment to reliable service.

    Contact the Experts at Fisher Barton

    At Fisher Barton, we work hard to deliver consistent product quality, customer service, and reliability. We specialize in high-wear and high-performance components for a variety of markets, including aerospace, agriculture, construction, oil and gas, mining, transportation, and more. Our teams continually advance their understanding of material sciences and develop new proprietary solutions in heat treating and thermal spraying.

    Fisher Barton produces high-quality goods through our full-service manufacturing capabilities, which include:

    • Bending
    • Casting
    • Cutting
    • Forming
    • Machining
    • Stamping
    • Welding

    Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your project.

  3. What is Precision Machining?

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    What is Precision Machining?

     

    Precision machining refers to a group of subtractive manufacturing, or material removal, processes in which machines drill, cut, or otherwise remove material from a workpiece to create a part. It is usually done with computer numerically controlled (CNC) machines that are carefully programmed to make exact cuts and movements with specialized tools. This type of manufacturing allows for highly accurate individual parts and a high degree of precision from part to part.

    Here, we’ll look at what precision machining is, the operations performed with it, and some of its many benefits and applications.

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    What Is a Precision Machining?

    What is Precision Machining?

    Precision machining is typically done with CNC machines, which allow for precise control over machining processes. Examples include milling, drilling, turning, cutting, routing, grinding, and others. A blank or workpiece is placed in the machine and specialized tools make cuts, drill, turn, or otherwise remove material from it based on a set of computerized directions. The machine is overseen by a skilled machinist or can be integrated with robots and other automation technology.

    Because the positioning of blanks and movement of the tools is controlled by a computer program, each operation is performed with the same steps and parameters, to achieve the same dimensions and tolerances, over and over for a high degree of precision. This means there will be limited variation between parts. State-of-the-art tools for cutting and removing material from workpieces make it possible to create both complex and simple parts with a high degree of accuracy.

    Benefits of Precision Machining

    Precision machining offers numerous benefits for manufacturing and is widely used in many industries. Key advantages include:

    • Quality & Accuracy: Due to its high degree of repeatability, precision machining enables consistent quality and accuracy in product manufacturing. This is especially important for parts and assemblies with tight tolerances, where even the smallest deviation can affect fit or performance. By using precision machining, manufacturers can produce high volumes of products with uniform quality, reducing waste and improving end user safety.
    • Efficiency & Speed: CNC machines often outperform human manual labor in terms of speed, accuracy, and precision. Precision machining allows for faster setup and production with less downtime associated with worker fatigue, error, or injury. The result is faster turnaround times, lower labor costs, and quicker time to market.
    • Streamlined Processes & Reduced Waste: Precision machining significantly reduces material waste by minimizing human error and optimizing workpiece positioning and material removal. This means blanks can be smaller and less scrap material is produced. By reducing waste, manufacturers can lower production costs and improve sustainability. Blanks are also loaded and removed efficiently cycle after cycle to save time. Integrating automation solutions, such as machine-tending robots and conveyance equipment, can further streamline operations.
    • Workplace Safety: Using CNC machines enhances workplace safety by reducing manual cutting processes, repetitive motions, and worker fatigue, which can lead to errors or injury. In some cases, operators can be reassigned to more skill-intensive roles, such as CNC design and programming, improving overall job satisfaction.

    Applications for Precision Machining

    Precision machining is widely used in different industries, meeting many manufacturing requirements and challenges. Here are some notable applications:

    • Aerospace. Components like aircraft turbines, engine blocks, landing gear, and structural airframe parts have tight tolerances and often use highly specialized materials. Multi-axis precision CNC machines like mills, lathes, and grinders are often used to create these parts.
    • Automotive. Precision machined tooling and molds are used for stamped and injection molded components. CNC machines are also used to create gears, shafts, cylinders, and valves. High accuracy and precision improve part fit and function as well as driver safety.
    • Medical. Medical devices, including surgical tools, dental drill guides, and joint replacement implants are often precision machined from biocompatible materials. It’s possible to achieve parts with sub-millimeter accuracy for improved patient safety and device functionality.
    • Optics. Optical components, such as mirrors, lenses, filters, and prisms need extremely smooth surfaces and call for micron-level tolerances. Precision machining equipment shapes these materials to specifications for optimal light transmission and performance in optical systems.
    • Electronics. Precision machining is used to create enclosures, connectors, and micro-scale features for semiconductors, consumer devices, and miniaturized electronics.
    • Robotics. Robotic systems rely on precision machined components for articulated arm, joint, and end effector components. These parts must have excellent fit and function for the robot to move efficiently.

    Fisher Barton’s Excellence in Precision Machining

    Fisher Barton is a leader in precision machining for parts that require tight tolerances and complex geometries. Our Turning Center of Excellence includes several multi-axis, horizontal, and vertical turning machine stations for creating a range of parts in most metals and alloys, including aluminum, brass, bronze, Inconel, Monel, stainless steel, titanium, and more.

    As a one-stop source for precision manufacturing, Fisher Barton has several capabilities in addition to precision turning and CNC machining. These include advanced coordinate measuring machine (CMM) verification and inspection, heat treating, grinding, surface engineering (e.g., thermal spray), mechanical/metallurgical testing, laser and waterjet cutting, permanent marking (e.g., engraving, etching), and on-site assembly.

    Partner with Fisher Barton for Your Precision Machining Needs

    Precision machining is an important manufacturing process for complex or critical parts used in many industries. Our experienced team of machinists and engineers is committed to excellence for all our customers and their projects. We are ISO 9001:2015 certified and ITAR registered.

    Contact us to learn more about our capabilities or request a quote to get started.

  4. Milling Multi-Axis Machining: Common Applications

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    close up shot of machining a part at TCOE

    At Fisher Barton, we operate based on a set of clear values: customer excellence, a culture of fairness, and community involvement. This allows us to offer our customers the best services and products available.

    Our core values and capabilities come together in precision machining solutions that fit the needs of various applications. Read on to explore some of the common applications of multi-axis machining solutions.

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    Milling Multi-Axis Machining: Common Applications

    Complex 3D Geometries

    Multi-axis machining allows for the development of products with some of the most intricate 3D geometries without the need for multiple machines. While machining systems operate on X, Y, and Z axes, multi-axis systems integrate four or more axes to move tools and workpieces. This allows for increased precision while cutting.

    Some specific applications requiring multi-axis machining for complex parts and components include:

    • Aerospace Components. Parts requiring intricate designs include landing gear, engine parts, and other complex components with challenging geometries. Multi-axis machining is used to create precise contours, curves, and pockets.
    • Medical Devices. Surgical instruments, joint implants, and numerous other types of medical devices feature complex designs that require multi-axis machining to manufacture.
    • Molds and Dies. Multi-axis machining systems can create complex mold cores and cavities for various forming or casting applications.

    High-Precision Machining

    High-precision machining can produce highly accurate parts. Circuit boards, antennas, switches, and other electronic components used in telecommunication systems benefit from the quality and precision multi-axis machining offers.

    Many auto parts and components have tight tolerances and require the best possible finishes. Automotive manufacturers can utilize multi-axis machining when fabricating fuel injectors, valve bodies, transmission components, and other parts.

    Five-Axis Advantages for Specific Applications

    Specific applications can benefit from five-axis machining solutions. Some of these applications and their corresponding advantages include:

    • Fluid Dynamics Components. Fluid flow parts like turbines and impellers comprise complex designs with intricate channel systems, requiring machining equipment that can approach the design from multiple angles.
    • Custom Machining. Multi-axis machining also allows for the development of custom shapes and sizes for one or multiple components, resulting in more efficiency and cost savings compared to traditional machining solutions.
    • Reverse Engineering. These solutions can also more easily recreate the complex geometries of parts with the help of 3D scanning technology.

    Milling Multi-Axis Machining from Fisher Barton

    Regardless of the application and requirements, Fisher Barton is here to provide you with a reliable multi-axis machining solution. We use some of the most innovative machining technology, including state-of-the-art horizontal and vertical turning centers.

    For more information about our solutions and to get started on a multi-axis machining project with our experts, contact us today, and we’ll discuss your specific needs.

  5. How to Measure Lawn Mower Blades

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    Identifying the right replacement for your lawn mower blade can be a challenge, especially if you don’t have the OEM part number or model information. This is why understanding the industry standard for measuring is important as it’s not always a straightforward process.

    Drawing on our experience as a leading lawn mower blade manufacturer for various OEMs, we not only cater to our customers’ requirements but also consider the needs of their clients. In the following, we provide a clear guide on how to accurately measure a lawn mower blade every time.

    Length

    Begin by measuring the length. Turn off the lawn mower and disconnect the spark plug to avoid unintentionally starting the mower.

    Next, find the blades under the lawn mower deck. Lawn mower blades usually aren’t symmetrical, lengthwise. The standard, consistent method is to measure diagonally from the end of one cutting edge to another. In other words, measure from the sharpest corner of one end of the blade to the sharpest corner of the other end. These will be on opposite sides of the blade.

    To simplify your search, record the measurement in both inches and millimeters. Note that the more a lawn mower blade is sharpened, the smaller it will become, meaning it will no longer have the exact dimensions as when it was new. If that’s the case, allot for a slightly longer length when comparing new lawn mower blades.

    Curved or damaged blades require greater estimation. The most efficient method in this case is to measure several points along the cutting edge, and then calculate the average length.

    Width

    The width of a lawn mower blade is easier to measure than its length. Again, keep the spark plug disconnected and ensure the lawn mower is completely off.

    Make the blade accessible and simply measure the blade’s width at the widest part. This maximum width is typically at or near the center hole. Make sure to keep your measuring device straight, rather than curving it across the blade. Also, be sure you’re measuring exactly parallel to the blade’s width, and record both inches and millimeters.

    Center Hole

    Unlike measuring the width and length, measuring a lawn mower blade’s center hole requires removing the blade. Make sure you have the following items:

    • Thick safety gloves
    • A measuring device (calipers, if you have them)
    • A solid, flat, and stable surface

    With the lawn mower off and the spark plug disconnected, remove the blade according to the manual or other manufacturer instructions. Removal usually only requires unscrewing a bolt or nut assembly running through the center hole, which will detach the blade from the mower deck.

    Set the blade on a flat surface and measure the diameter of the center hole. Sometimes there are side holes on either side of the center hole, which you’ll also need to measure. If so, take two measurements of the side holes:

    1. The diameter
    2. Distance between side holes, from the center of each one

    What about irregularly shaped holes? For star-shaped, H-pattern, or other unique holes, you only need the name of the hole.

    As mentioned, taking all measurements in inches and millimeters ensures you will have the easiest time researching replacement lawn mower blades. Throughout the process, be extremely cautious of all sharp edges. Also, be certain the blade is perfectly secure before attempting to use the lawn mower again.

    Lawn Mower Blades From Fisher Barton Group

    Fisher Barton Group’s blade division applies extensive experience in metallurgy and blade design and manufacturing to numerous industries. We produce lawn mower blades for dozens of leading brands, positioning us as one of the most reliable upstream suppliers for numerous product lines sold worldwide. Contact us to learn more about our custom blade engineering services, and tell our knowledgeable technicians about your company’s lawn mower blade design and manufacturing needs.

  6. What Is a Mulching Blade?

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    What Is a Mulching Blade?

    A well-maintained lawn requires routine care and the proper tools to do the job efficiently. Choosing the right lawn mower blade is pivotal to maintaining a healthy lawn. There are certain situations that might call for a mulching blade instead of a standard lawn mowing blade. Learn more about mulching blades and how they can enhance the health of your lawn.

    What Is the Purpose of a Mulching Blade?

    A lawn mower mulching blade cuts grass like a standard blade but also repeatedly chops the grass clippings into tiny pieces. The finely chopped grass clippings are deposited back onto the lawn, acting as a natural fertilizer to help maintain a healthy yard.

    In terms of design, a mulching blade has a curved shape that generates airflow and allows grass clippings to circulate efficiently around the cutting deck. It also features a longer sharp cutting edge for repeated cutting.

    Standard Blades vs. Mulching Blades

    Depending on your lawn care needs, you can choose between standard or mulching blades. Here’s an overview of each option:

    • Standard Blades (2-in-1 blades): Known as 2-in-1 blades, standard blades are straight, aerodynamic blades designed to cut grass and subsequently discharge or bag the clippings. Standard blades achieve a lift strong enough to shoot out grass clippings from under the deck. Standard lawn mower blades are best for situations where mulching isn’t an option, such as mowing overgrown grass or when the clippings must be bagged to leave behind a clean-looking lawn.
    • Mulching Blades (3-in-1 blades): Mulching lawn mower blades are known as 3-in-1 blades because they can also mulch grass clippings in addition to cutting and discharging or bagging. Mulching blades are designed with more curves and a larger cutting edge to finely chop grass clippings before depositing them back onto the lawn. These blades are best for lawns mowed every three to four days.

    Benefits of Using Mulching Blades

    There are several advantages of using mulching blades:

    • Environmental Benefits: Mulching blades provide an eco-friendly way to handle grass clippings because the mulched clippings provide natural fertilization to lawns. The mulched clippings can replace chemical fertilizers and do not require separate disposal.
    • Nutrient Recycling: Since plants absorb nutrients from the soil to store in their leaves, mulched grass clippings return these nutrients to the soil to be reused.

    How to Convert a Standard Mower into a Mulching Mower

    If you decide a mulching blade is ideal for your lawn care, you often don’t have to purchase a new mower. Instead, you can buy a mulch kit that can convert some standard mowers into mulching mowers.

    Mulch conversion kits include a mulching blade and a mulch plug that blocks the chute to the grass collection bag. To switch quickly from mulching to standard grass collection, you can remove the mulch plug so that grass clippings are lifted through the chute into the connected grass bag, all while still using the mulching blade.

    When to Choose Mulching Blades Over Standard Blades

    • You have a regular mowing schedule of three to four days. Using a mulching blade on regularly mowed lawns prevents clogs and ensures efficient mulching of shorter grass.
    • You want natural fertilization for your lawn. Mulched grass clippings deposited back onto the lawn decompose and enrich the soil with essential nutrients. This fosters a healthier lawn without the use of additional fertilizers.
    • You want an environmentally friendly mowing approach. Mulching grass lessens yard waste, resulting in reduced plastic bag usage and trips to the landfill. A mulching blade also reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, encouraging an eco-friendly lawn care approach.

    Elevate Your Lawn Care with Mulching Blades at Fisher Barton

    A mulching blade promotes a healthy lawn and is an eco-friendly lawn care option versus standard lawn mower blades. Contact us to discuss how our mulching blades can serve your lawn care needs.

  7. High Lift vs. Mulching Blades: Which is Right for You?

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    High Lift vs. Mulching Blades: Which is Right for You?

    Selecting the right blade for your mower can considerably impact your mowing efficiency, lawn health, and the overall appearance of your grass. With various choices and confusing terms, selecting the ideal mower blade can be challenging. You may see blades described as 3-in-1, 2-in-1, mulching, or high-lift, and not be sure which will meet your needs. Here, we will guide you through the various mower blades, and compare and contrast high-lift vs. mulching blades to help you make an informed decision.

    Understanding Mower Blade Terminology

    There are two primary styles of mowing blades: standard and mulching. Standard blades, also commonly referred to as 2-in-1 or high-lift blades, are designed to create an upward airflow for more efficient cutting. They cut grass and discharge the clippings either onto your lawn or into a grass collection system. Mulching blades, also known as 3-in-1 blades, are capable of mulching, discharging, and bagging grass clippings.

    High Lift (Standard) Blades

    High-lift blades are primarily used for standard grass-cutting. They feature a more straightforward design that focuses on cleanly and efficiently cutting grass. The higher-lifting airflow of standard blades creates a strong, upward draft that causes grass to stand upright, ensuring an even cut. This particular type of mower blade is ideal for discharging clippings either by throwing them out from the mower deck or by moving them into a collection bag.

    Mulching Blades

    Mulching blades feature a curved surface designed to cut grass and recut the clippings into smaller pieces for mulching. As such, this type of blade is the best option if you want to return finely cut grass back to your lawn for use as fertilizer.

    Mulching blades may consist of two separate blades aligned perpendicularly to create a cross or “+” shape and enhance mulching efficiency. While not as efficient as high-lift blades at discharging, mulching blades are highly versatile due to their 3-in-1 function, which includes mulching, discharging, and bagging.

    Making the Right Choice for Your Mower Blade

    When determining the ideal mower blade for your needs, you should consider the desired outcome of mowing your lawn. If your primary goal is to discharge your clippings, a high-lift blade may be the way to go. However, if you want to use your clippings as a natural fertilizer for your lawn, a mulching blade will be the better choice.

    The type of blade installed on a mower is typically chosen by the retailer based on the expected needs of their customers. However, this may not always align with your preferences. To confirm which type of blade is on a particular model, you can inspect the blade for a part number. That number can then be cross-referenced with the mower’s manual to determine the type of blade.

    If you’d like to change the blade on your current mower, there are two main options:

    • Mulching kits. If you have a standard blade and want a mulching blade, you can consider a mulching kit. These kits typically include the mulching blades as well as a plug to close off the mower’s discharge opening. This makes sure the clippings remain under the deck for recutting.
    • Aftermarket blades. You may also choose to use aftermarket mower blades. However, many aftermarket blade options are available, so it’s important to make sure you choose one compatible with your mower.

    Transform Your Lawn Care at Fisher Barton

    Understanding the difference between the various mower blades is crucial in determining the best option for your needs. At Fisher Barton, we’ve been serving the turf care industry with quality mower blades since 1973. We offer various types of mower blades, including our innovative MARBAIN® lawn mower blades, which provide the strongest, hardest, and longest-lasting performance in the industry.

    For more information about our selection of mower blades, or for help determining which mower blade is right for your needs, contact Fisher Barton today.

  8. Why You Need MARBAIN®Blades

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    With the goal of providing the strongest, hardest, longest-lasting material in the industry for manufacturing lawn mower blades, Fisher Barton developed MARBAIN®. An exclusive, durable, cost-effective, and patented material, MARBAIN® is a preferred alternative to abrasion-resistant steel and other hard metals used to make blades.

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    Why You Need Marbain® Blades

    What are MARBAIN® Blades?

    MARBAIN® is a proprietary heat-treated steel that is built with sturdiness in mind. Manufactured with AISI 10B38 base material, it is austempered, not quench/tempered. Using our materials expertise, we take our austempering process to the next level. By eliminating quench cracks, high-hardness parts that are extremely ductile are produced. Hardnesses of between 48 – 52 Rc are achieved, improving wear resistance by 33% over conventional austempering processes.

    Fisher Barton MARBAIN® lawn mower blades are extra durable. They provide the best strength and hardness of any mower blade on the market. Ideal for turf care professionals and those with industrial-strength lawn care needs, MARBAIN® steel blades last longer than our best austempered blades.

    Benefits of MARBAIN® Blades

    MARBAIN® blades are high quality, wear-resistant, bend-resistant, and durable. Our exclusive, proprietary, patented heat-treating process gives blades unmatched high hardness levels. Harder, stronger MARBAIN® blades require less sharpening time and offer:

    • Thinner and lighter components
    • No loss in field life or wear resistance
    • Guaranteed impact toughness (ANSI-S483 compliant) in every rotary cutter blade
    • No increased brittleness at 48-52 Rockwell ‘C’
    • Cost-effectiveness

    Reduced-weight blades made of MARBAIN® have the potential to provide quicker starts and stops, less wear on the PTO clutch brake, and lower fuel consumption.

    How Do We Test Our MARBAIN® Blades?

    To ensure our MARBAIN®blades are the best in the industry, we put them through a vigorous battery of tests. Fisher Barton engineers analyze their strength and durability with tests that are more severe than industry standards.

    The Stake Test

    The stake test assesses the durability of each blade. Blades are spun and torqued higher than they would be on a tractor or a mower, and a one-inch steel rod is fired into the blade’s path to stop it instantly. This process is done multiple times to ensure our blades are the most durable on the market.

    The Bang Test

    The bang test proves blade superiority. A normal mowing blade and one made of MARBAIN® are banged together. In this test, the stronger blade — the MARBAIN® blade — always prevails.

    The Sand Test

    Sandy conditions will wear blades down significantly faster. For the sand test, the tester puts the blade in a machine and simulates mowing in a sand-based region. The durability of MARBAIN® is the key to blades surviving the test of sand and other abrasive surfaces.

    MARBAIN® is an alternative for Abrasion Resistant Steel (AB)

    Fisher Barton’s MARBAIN® material is harder, stronger, and lasts longer than competitive offerings. This cost-effective solution is the ideal alternative to abrasion-resistant steel and other manufacturing materials that aren’t durable enough for tough conditions. MARBAIN® material not exclusive to the Turf industry. MARBAIN is also used in Agriculture, Mining and Forestry industries where harsh conditions require extreme hardness and toughness. MARBAIN base material when used in concert with Fisher Barton surface engineering solutions create the toughest, most durable and longest lasting parts available in the market today.

    Leading the Agricultural Equipment Manufacturers blade working group, in 1992, Fisher Barton submitted standards changes that have since been implemented. In 1995, MARBAIN® was patented and introduced to the mower blade and agricultural markets. This material is 40% harder than standard steel. 55% of the blades we manufacture are MARBAIN®. Today we are a leader in the industry based on our core values of customer excellence, a culture of fairness, and community involvement. These 3 C’s impact the way we do our jobs and the processes we use to perform better.
    Request a quote today and learn why MARBAIN® lawn mower blades are superior to competitors’ blades.

  10. Are You Getting the Most Out of Your Razor Slitter Blades?

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    Razor SlitterAll current CNC razor slitting machines allow for setting changes to the sharpening frequency and/ or sharpening duration. Excessive sharpening decreases blade life. By monitoring your slitting quality and making gradual changes to sharpening frequency and duration, you can work toward optimizing the life of your slitter blades. All too often we find that razor slitter sharpening is set for worst case running scenario and leads to excessive sharpening. Consult your operator’s manual or your service technician for specific machine adjustments.

    Excessive sharpening decreases blade life.

    Maintain a slitter blade sharpening log that includes board combination and optimal grind settings. This will aid in understanding your slitter machine and how to get the most out of each slitter blade.

    Zenith Cutter offers three levels of quality for most slitter machines:

    1. M2 High Speed Steel – Economy or starter blade.
    2. CPM10V Powdered Metal – A premium quality blade for those who understand their machines and can maximize their blade life.
    3. Tungsten Carbide – Highest level of quality for machines that are designed for its use, or well-maintained machines that have progressed to the optimal material.

    Download Slitter Blade Sharpening Log

     

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