1️⃣ Why This Test Matters
Graphite reinforced gaskets are one of the toughest materials we deal with.
They are made from flexible graphite sheets laminated with a 0.2 mm stainless-steel core, combining softness and rigidity in one sheet.
That’s great for sealing — but not so great for cutting.
The mixed structure easily causes edge tearing, burrs, and blade wear.
So, we ran a real-world test.
Two tools, one material, same conditions.
Let’s see which performs better — the 400W Electric Oscillating Tool (EOT-400) or the High-Frequency Pneumatic Oscillating Tool (POT-HF).
2️⃣ The Test Setup
Both tools were installed on the same AMOR CNC oscillating knife cutting machine.
We used graphite reinforced gasket sheets with a 0.2 mm stainless core, 3 mm thickness, and identical cutting paths.
- Cutting Speed (test): 50 mm/s (same for both)
- Actual Maximum Speed:
- POT-HF → 100 mm/s+
- 400W EOT → 50 mm/s max
- Air Pressure for POT-HF: 0.65 MPa
- Vacuum Table: 7.5 kW, 8-zone adsorption
- Blade Type: AMOR09 tungsten carbide blade, 1 mm thickness
Both tools used the exact same blade model (AMOR09) to ensure fairness.
3️⃣ What We Saw During Cutting
Right from the start, the difference was clear.
- 400W EOT: The cut felt heavy and noisy. The stainless core reflected vibration back to the blade, generating heat.
- POT-HF: Smooth motion, stable sound, and excellent cooling from the continuous air flow.
Even though both were set to 50 mm/s for this test, the pneumatic tool easily had capacity to double that speed — 100 mm/s+ in real operation — without affecting quality.
4️⃣ Blade Condition After Cutting
After the test, we removed both blades and examined them carefully under the same lighting conditions.
Both were AMOR09 tungsten carbide blades, 1 mm thick.
The results were striking:
| Tool Type | Blade Type | Blade Tip Condition | Wear Condition | Max Cutting Speed | Cooling |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 400W EOT | AMOR09 (1 mm Tungsten Carbide) | Tip broken | Noticeable edge dulling, heat marks | ≤ 50 mm/s | Electric (heat buildup) |
| POT-HF | AMOR09 (1 mm Tungsten Carbide) | Tip intact | Minor wear, edge remains sharp | 100 mm/s+ | Air-cooled |
The 400W EOT blade tip broke during cutting, likely due to high vibration and thermal stress.
In contrast, the POT-HF blade remained completely intact, with no visible damage or discoloration.
The air-driven oscillation kept both the tool and the blade cool, preventing heat fatigue.
5️⃣ Cutting Quality Comparison
We evaluated the results under magnification after both cuts were complete.
| Evaluation Item | 400W EOT | POT-HF |
|---|---|---|
| Section Smoothness | Slight burrs on stainless layer | Clean, smooth section |
| Edge Collapse | Present at corners | None |
| Graphite Surface | Small flakes and tears | Flat and clean |
| Dimensional Accuracy | ±0.05 mm | ±0.05 mm |
| Noise Level | High | Low |
| Blade Life | Shorter | Longer |
The POT-HF produced smoother sections, with no burrs or edge tearing — even at higher speeds.
The 400W EOT not only generated heat but also caused the blade tip to fail, leading to rougher edges and increased downtime.
6️⃣ Why the Pneumatic Tool Wins
Power alone isn’t the answer — control and cooling are.
The 400W Electric Tool uses a motorized drive that’s powerful but also generates frictional heat. When cutting metal-reinforced graphite, that heat and vibration quickly damage the blade tip.
The High-Frequency Pneumatic Tool, on the other hand:
- Keeps temperature low with continuous air cooling
- Vibrates more flexibly, reducing stress on the blade tip
- Maintains sharpness longer
- Handles both graphite and stainless layers with ease
- Delivers up to twice the speed and a much cleaner finish
In simple terms: faster cuts, smoother edges, longer tool life.
7️⃣ Best Practice Tips for Production
To get the best cutting performance for graphite reinforced gaskets:
- Keep air pressure ≥ 0.65 MPa
- Use genuine AMOR09 tungsten carbide blades
- Clean the blade seat and tool base with compressed air after each shift
- Check vacuum zones to ensure firm material fixation
Small steps, big difference in long-term precision.
8️⃣ Final Verdict
Both tools can technically cut graphite reinforced gaskets.
But only one can do it efficiently and economically.
✅ High-Frequency Pneumatic Oscillating Tool (POT-HF)
- Blade tip remains intact
- Clean, smooth section
- No edge collapse
- Faster cutting speed (up to 100 mm/s+)
- Longer blade life
- Lower maintenance costs
For gasket manufacturers processing graphite + stainless-core sheets, this is the most reliable and efficient choice.
