Carbide Turning Inserts - Tutorial (by engineeringsupplies.co.uk)

Introduction

This tutorial aims to demystify carbide turning inserts, providing you with a foundational understanding necessary for navigating manufacturer catalogs and selecting the right inserts for your needs. By following the steps outlined, you'll gain insights into insert composition, coding, and other critical features.

Step 1: Understand Insert Composition

• Carbide inserts are primarily made of tungsten carbide, which offers high hardness and wear resistance.
• Inserts may also contain other materials such as cobalt, which helps bind the carbide particles and enhance toughness.

Step 2: Familiarize Yourself with Insert Codes

• Each carbide insert has a specific code that indicates its characteristics.
• The code typically consists of letters and numbers that correspond to various features of the insert.

Step 3: Identify the Shape

• The first letter of the insert code represents its shape.
• Common shapes include:
  • T: Triangle
  • C: Square
  • R: Round
• Choose the shape based on the specific machining operation you are performing.

Step 4: Analyze the Relief

• The second letter in the code denotes the relief angle of the insert.
• Relief angles are crucial for preventing rubbing between the insert and the workpiece, which can lead to premature wear.

Step 5: Assess Tolerance

• The third letter indicates the tolerance of the insert.
• Tolerance affects how precisely the insert fits in its holder, which influences cutting performance.

Step 6: Evaluate Clamping and Chipbreakers

• The fourth letter in the code highlights the clamping style and whether chipbreakers are included.
• Chipbreakers are designed to control chip flow and improve surface finish.
• Consider the type of operation and material being cut when selecting the appropriate chipbreaker.

Step 7: Measure Edge Length

• The first two numbers in the insert code represent the edge length.
• Edge length impacts the stability and rigidity of the cutting edge during machining.

Step 8: Determine Insert Thickness

• The next two numbers indicate the thickness of the insert.
• Thicker inserts are generally more robust and can withstand greater cutting forces.

Step 9: Check Insert Radius

• The third set of two numbers denotes the radius of the insert.
• The radius affects the cutting action and can be chosen based on the desired surface finish and chip control.

Step 10: Explore Chipbreakers Further

• The letters at the end of the insert code (0-2 letters) provide additional information regarding chipbreakers.
• Chipbreakers can be tailored for specific materials and applications.

Step 11: Understand the Grade

• The grade of the insert refers to its material and properties, affecting wear resistance and toughness.
• Select an appropriate grade based on the material you’re machining and the operating conditions.

Step 12: Assess Coating Options

• Coatings enhance the insert’s performance by reducing friction and heat.
• Common coatings include TiN, TiAlN, and others, each suited for different applications.

Conclusion

Understanding carbide turning inserts involves recognizing their composition, coding, and various features. By following these steps, you can confidently select the right insert for your machining needs. For further assistance, consider consulting the Carbide Turning Insert Guide provided on the Engineering Supplies website.