Exactaform, a prominent provider of high-performance cutting solutions, has announced an exclusive partnership with WIDIA, a brand of Kennametal Inc., to distribute the full WIDIA carbide tooling range in the UK. This strategic move aims to bolster the capabilities of UK manufacturers by providing access to a comprehensive suite of cutting tools renowned for their durability and precision.
The announcement coincides with WIDIA’s centenary celebration, marking 100 years since its inception in 1926. Known for engineering resilience in demanding machining environments, WIDIA’s logo features a diamond symbol, a nod to its heritage and the German phrase “Wie Diamant,” meaning “like diamond.”
Under this agreement, Exactaform will supply and support WIDIA’s entire tooling portfolio, catering to industries such as aerospace and automotive. The range includes solutions for CNC milling, turning, drilling, and threading applications, suitable for materials like stainless steels, hardened materials, carbon steels, and high-temperature alloys.
WIDIA tools, crafted from advanced tungsten carbide and coated grades, are regarded as reliable workhorses in aggressive machining operations worldwide. These tools are engineered to extend tool life, reduce machine downtime, and maintain quality, making them indispensable for high-performance production environments.
To ensure prompt delivery and minimise lead times, Exactaform will maintain UK stock of key WIDIA products, ensuring a reliable supply for both standard and specialist tooling needs. Additionally, Exactaform’s in-house engineering team will offer technical and application support, collaborating with customers to optimise tooling specifications for machine capabilities, materials, and production objectives.
As WIDIA embarks on its second century, this partnership underscores a mutual dedication to practical innovation and robust engineering solutions. Jamie White, Managing Director at Exactaform, commented, “WIDIA has built a global reputation for producing durable, dependable cutting tools for demanding production environments. Being appointed as a UK partner allows us to broaden our offering with a proven tooling range, backed by application-led support from our engineering team.”
Tony Atkinson, UK Managing Director and Middle East Sales Manager at Kennametal Inc., added, “As WIDIA marks 100 years of engineering innovation, partnering with Exactaform strengthens our presence in the UK market. Its technical expertise and application support capability ensure manufacturers can access and implement WIDIA tooling effectively in high-performance machining environments.”
