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CROSS SECTION OF MODULAR BLADE AND INSERTS

Joe,

   The graphic below shows a cross section of a field blade that has carbide edge inserts. This allows a blade to achieve the age old dream of true toughness, combined with true edge retention.

   It doesn't rely on special hardening or selective quenching, but on a true duality of materials (tough tool steel, and HARD carbide for the edge). This design also allows one to selectively replace edge sections as they wear or chip.

   Actually, in the picture above, I show the clamping holes above the inserts, but in actuality, it would probably be tougher if the inserts had holes for the clamping screws to pass through as shown below:

   This would create a consumables market for both the replaceable inserts and for the screws themselves. As I mentioned in the email, these inserts could have various blade angles.

   Buck wouldn't even have to get into the carbide business... there's already a huge volume of manufacturers who make carbide cutting inserts for machine shops (lathe and milling machine cutting heads). You could obtain these in high volumes for a couple dollars apiece from external sourcing, and move them out piecemeal at a 500% markup (about $10 each).

            Contact me directly if you have any questions!

    Regards,

          Mike (M40)