Support fixture for acid etching PCD cutting inserts

摘要

A fixture for etching PCD drill inserts is provided. The fixture design allows the fixture to be injection molded, significantly reducing costs and allowing the fixture to be disposed of after a single use. The fixture allows for faster use and more accurate etching of the PCD insert.

主权项

1. A method for etching a cutting insert comprising:
selecting an etching system comprising an etching fixture body and a cutting insert, the etching fixture body having:
a hole formed in the etching fixture body, the hole having a first end which is open; anda sealing rib which is formed integrally with the fixture body, which is located in the hole adjacent the first end, and which extends into the hole to define an opening which is smaller than the hole; wherein the cutting insert has a first end and a second end and wherein the cutting insert is disposed in the hole in the etching fixture body such that the first end of the cutting insert extends out of the opening, such that the second end of the cutting insert is disposed in the hole, and such that the sealing rib contacts the cutting insert between the first end and the second end to seal against the cutting insert and such that the sealing rib defines a boundary between etched and non-etched portions of the cutting insert; and placing the etching fixture in acid such that the acid contacts the first end of the cutting insert to etch the end of the cutting insert.