Abstract: A cutter ring for use in trimming printed circuit board leads and a method of forming the ring is the subject of this invention. The cutter member is of annular configuration and is provided with a central hub portion surrounding an aperture. The cutter member itself is formed from a hardened sintered carbide which can only be shaped through a prolonged grinding operation. A molded cap is formed over the hub portion to present a surface which is to be received within a tool holder such as an arbor. The molded cap is characterized by being formed from a relatively soft workable material which can be shaped through a machining operation.

Abstract: An apparatus for trimming electrical component leads depending from a circuit board includes a plurality of cutters mounted on and spaced along a cutter mounting member supported on a frame supporting a drive motor operatively connected to the cutters for rotating same to trim electrical component leads depending from a circuit board as same is moved along a path structure supported by the frame and above the cutters. The drive motor and cutters are arranged in a pattern so that lead trimming occurs in a minimum area, length, or distance along the path 1. The cutters are adjustable vertically so that the cutters trim the leads at a predetermined spacing from a lower surface of the circuit board.