Cleveland C44602 M42 Cobalt Tool Bit Blank 1/4x3/8x2.5in

Product Description

The CLEVELAND C44602 is a rectangle-ground tool bit blank machined from M42 cobalt high-speed steel. It measures 1/4 inch wide, 3/8 inch high, and 2-1/2 inches in overall length. M42 cobalt grade provides elevated red hardness and wear resistance compared to standard M2 high-speed steel, making it well suited for grinding custom single-point tools, form tools, and specialty profiles from scratch. Machinists and tool grinders use blanks like this when a standard off-the-shelf geometry does not meet the job requirement. The ground finish ensures consistent dimensions across the blank for accurate tool grinding setups.

This tool bit blank is used in machine shop and toolroom environments where operators grind their own cutting tools to a custom profile. Typical applications include lathe tool grinding, boring bar fabrication, and specialty form tool production on manual or CNC lathes. The M42 cobalt composition handles difficult-to-machine materials such as hardened steels, stainless steel, and high-temperature alloys better than standard HSS. It is sold individually and is appropriate for production shops, toolrooms, and trade apprenticeship programs that require custom-ground tooling.

Key Features

• M42 cobalt high-speed steel for improved red hardness and wear resistance over standard HSS grades
• Rectangle-ground blank provides a consistent, dimensionally accurate starting profile for tool grinding
• 1/4 inch wide by 3/8 inch high cross-section fits standard small-bore tool holders and grinder fixtures
• 2-1/2 inch overall length allows material for regrinding or re-profiling multiple times
• Sold as a single piece with no minimum order beyond one unit

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style replacement or direct-use tool bit blank for manual and CNC lathe tool holders accepting 1/4 inch by 3/8 inch rectangular shank inserts, and compatible with standard bench and surface grinders used to profile HSS tool blanks.

Installation Notes

Grinding of tool bit blanks should be performed by a qualified machinist or toolroom technician using appropriate grinding wheels rated for cobalt high-speed steel. Eye protection and a wheel guard must be in place before grinding operations begin. Secure the blank firmly in a tool grinding fixture or vise to maintain consistent relief and rake angles during shaping. Allow the blank to cool adequately during grinding to prevent thermal damage to the cutting edge.