(Sandvik Coromant: Sandviken, Sweden) -- Sandvik Coromant, a leader in cutting tools and tooling systems, recently launched GC1240, an indexable milling grade engineered to overcome the toughest stainless-steel machining challenges and deliver unwavering performance.

Powered by an innovative nano-multilayer PVD (physical vapor deposition) coating produced with Sandvik Coromant’s Zertivo coating process technology, GC1240 resists thermal cracking and abrasive wear. Its stable edge line ensures secure machining with predictable tool life, from light roughing to finishing, in both wet and dry conditions.

The continuous development of Zertivo amplifies GC1240’s capabilities. The advanced nano-multilayer coating, a combination of TiAlN and TiSiN, delivers a rare synergy of edge-line toughness and wear resistance, typically considered a trade-off in conventional grades.

“GC1240 is capable of machining stainless steel at higher cutting speeds in dry conditions—in some cases up to 20% higher than wet machining,” says Wayne Mayson, global product application manager for grades at Sandvik Coromant. “This enables lower energy consumption, more parts produced in less time, and reduced coolant usage, contributing to reduced CO₂ emissions and improved sustainability.

“GC1240 is the first-choice indexable milling grade for stainless steel, particularly austenitic materials, in stable conditions,” says Mayson. “GC1240 unlocks higher productivity, lower cost per part, and new sustainability opportunities through impressive and tangible results.”

Designed for reliability, grade GC1240 withstands harsh machining environments where flaking and chipping often limit tool life. Its ability to run dry makes it an ideal choice for applications where coolant reduction or elimination is required.

Grade GC1240 is the recommended grade for light roughing to finishing of stainless steels using strong, positive, and sharp geometries. It also performs effectively in heat-resistant superalloys and titanium at recommended cutting speeds. In total, 13 Sandvik Coromant CoroMill families are now available with grade GC1240, including 77 individual articles.