State-of-the-art LFV is a widely applicable cutting technology designed to avoid the problem of spiraling chips, entanglement of chips and built-up edges. Benefits include increased cutting tool life, reduced heat generation and reduced power consumption. 
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The popular Citizen CINCOM L20 series sliding headstock lathes are now available with Low Frequency Vibration (LFV). 

This widely applicable cutting technology – able to handle a broad range of machining shapes and materials – is ideal for cutting difficult-to-cut materials.  The state-of-the-art LFV suppresses various risks associated with these materials, such as entanglement of chips and built-up edges.

Depending on the material being cut, a variety of problems can be caused by chips getting entangled with each other, including increased cutting resistance, scarring, changes in the texture of the machined surface, tool nose damage, and built-up edges due to cutting heat.  In LFV cutting, “air cutting” time prevents the machining temperature from rising, which both prolongs tool lives and gives relief from various problems caused by chips.

Avinger Inc., based in Redwood City, California,  designs, develops and manufactures precision medial device technology with the goal of helping patients keep their legs. Recently they began testing the Micoconic system on their Citizen L20 (7M8) Swiss Screw Machine using a Utilis 3000 series cutoff holder and an 1/5mm X 10mm insert.  The bar stock was .225" OD round.

They where kind enough to share their test results with us.