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Thürmer Tools started working with development of 3D-printed thread cutting tools in 2013 in collaboration with Danish Technological Institute and FORCE Technology. It aims at the next generation of machine taps produced by the latest additive manufacturing technology. The technical break-through is the innovative 3D-printed cooling and lubricating features which are not possible using conventiona

l subtractive production methods. The innovative cooling and lubrication features are the internal channels and the micro nozzles that deliver the cutting fluid closest to the cutting edge. Unlike the channels on existing taps, the 3D-printed channels and nozzles can align the cutting fluid precisely to the tool-chip contact areas, where the cutting fluid is crucially needed. The new machine taps are believed to have prolonged tool-life, increased cutting speed, and low cutting liquid consumption. Thürmer Tools are still in a development phase of the machine taps and are doing research projects in collaboration with DTU, Danish Technological Institute and FORCE Technology.