When it comes to turning performance, the material of your cutting insert can have a significant impact. Cutting insert materials range from Cutting Tool Inserts carbide, ceramics, cermets, and polycrystalline diamond (PCD). Each material has unique properties that can affect the turning process in different ways.

Carbide cutting inserts, also known as cemented carbides, are made from a mixture of tungsten carbide and cobalt. These inserts are known for their toughness and wear resistance, making them a popular choice for general-purpose turning of various materials. Carbide inserts also have a high-temperature tolerance, making them useful for high-speed machining of heat-resistant alloys.

Ceramic inserts offer superior wear resistance and hardness compared to carbide inserts. These inserts are made from tough materials such as alumina, silicon nitride, and whisker-reinforced ceramic composites. Ceramics excel at high-speed machining of cast iron and other hardened materials where heat resistance is important. They are also less likely to chip or break compared to carbide inserts but can be brittle under extreme cutting forces.

Cermets, a combination of ceramics and metals, offer a balance of toughness and wear resistance. These inserts are made from a ceramic base with added metallic elements such as titanium, cobalt, or nickel. Cermets are suitable for turning cast iron, steel, and stainless steel, and provide a smoother finish compared to carbide inserts. CCGT Insert They also have a longer tool life than carbide inserts.

PCD inserts are the most expensive and also the most wear-resistant among the cutting insert materials. These inserts are made from a layer of diamond particles bonded to a carbide substrate. They are useful for turning non-ferrous materials such as aluminum, copper, and plastics. PCD inserts can handle high cutting speeds and provide a superior surface finish, but they are unsuitable for cutting ferrous materials like steel due to diamond's affinity to carbon.

Overall, the choice of cutting insert material depends on the materials and conditions of the turning process. Carbide inserts remain the most popular among manufacturers due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. However, if you require superior wear resistance, ceramics or PCD inserts may be a better choice. Cermets provide a middle ground between toughness and wear resistance. Whatever the choice of insert material, proper machining techniques and conditions are necessary for optimal turning performance.

Posted by: philiposbo at 08:19 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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