Cleveland C44553 Tool Bit Blank 5/8in Square M42 Cobalt

Product Description

The CLEVELAND C44553 is a square-ground tool bit blank made from M42 cobalt high-speed steel. It measures 5/8 inches wide by 5/8 inches high with an overall length of 4.5 inches. Tool bit blanks are unformed cutting stock that machinists grind to a custom profile for use in lathe toolholders, boring bars, and single-point cutting applications. M42 cobalt steel offers elevated heat resistance and hardness retention compared to standard M2 HSS, making it a reliable choice for interrupted cuts and harder workpiece materials. The ground finish provides dimensional accuracy straight from the package, reducing bench time before use.

This blank is suited for job shops, tool rooms, and production machining environments where custom-ground tooling is required. Machinists use blanks like the C44553 when a standard insert or brazed tool geometry does not match the required profile, such as for form tools, threading tools, or specialty boring operations. The square cross-section fits standard square-shank toolholders common on engine lathes and manual mills.

Key Features

• M42 cobalt high-speed steel for improved hot hardness and wear resistance over standard HSS
• Square ground cross-section at 5/8 inches by 5/8 inches for consistent fit in standard toolholders
• 4.5-inch overall length provides ample stock for grinding multiple tool profiles
• Ground finish ensures dimensional accuracy and reduces setup time at the bench grinder
• Square end shape ready for custom profile grinding by the end user

Compatibility

Designed as a standard-profile replacement or raw stock blank for square-shank toolholders accepting 5/8-inch bit stock, typical on engine lathes and manual milling machines.

Installation Notes

Tool bit blanks are ground to shape by a machinist using a bench or tool grinder before installation in a lathe or mill toolholder. Secure the blank firmly in the toolholder and verify proper relief and rake angles before cutting. Eye protection and appropriate grinding wheels rated for cobalt HSS are required during the grinding process. Follow your shop safety procedures and any applicable OSHA guidelines when operating grinding equipment.