Turning inserts are used in turning tools to shape and cut workpieces on a lathe. These inserts are made from a variety of materials, each with its own unique properties and applications. The choice of material used for turning inserts depends on the type of workpiece being machined, the cutting conditions, and the desired surface finish. Here are the commonly used materials for turning inserts:
1. Carbide Inserts: Carbide turning inserts are one of the most widely used materials in machining. They are made from a combination of tungsten carbide powder and a metallic binder, such as cobalt. Carbide inserts are known for their hardness, wear resistance, and ability to withstand high temperatures. They are suitable for machining a wide range of materials, including steels, stainless steels, and cast irons.
2. Cermet Inserts: Cermet inserts are a composite material made from ceramic and metallic materials. They offer excellent wear resistance and thermal stability, making them suitable for high-speed machining of hardened steels and other tough materials. Cermet inserts are also known for their ability to provide a smooth surface finish.
3. Cubic Boron Nitride (CBN) Inserts: CBN inserts are made from synthetic diamonds, which are arranged in a cubic crystalline structure. These inserts are extremely hard and offer exceptional wear resistance, making them ideal for machining hardened steels, cast irons, and other abrasive materials. CBN inserts are often used in high-precision, high-speed turning operations.
4. Coated Inserts: In addition to the base materials mentioned above, turning inserts can also be coated with various surface treatments to enhance their performance. Common coatings include titanium nitride TCGT Insert (TiN), titanium carbonitride (TiCN), and aluminum oxide (Al2O3), which improve wear resistance and reduce friction during machining.
5. Ceramic Inserts: Ceramic turning inserts are Cermet inserts made from hard, brittle materials like aluminum oxide or silicon nitride. They offer high-temperature resistance and are suitable for machining high-temperature alloys, hardened steels, and other difficult-to-machine materials. Ceramic inserts are also known for their ability to provide a smooth surface finish and long tool life.
Overall, the choice of material for turning inserts depends on the specific machining application and the properties required for the workpiece. By selecting the right type of material, machinists can achieve optimal cutting performance, extended tool life, and high-quality surface finishes.
