Indexable inserts – flexible workpiece machining
Indexable inserts are an important part of the tool industry because they
can be used in a wide variety of applications. This type of insert has the advantage
of being able to be used on multiple sides depending on the shape. As a result,
the service life is longer and the material wear is lower than with tools made
of one continuous material from the cutting edge to the tool clamping.
Another important point is the sustainability of indexable inserts. After
use, the plate is turned and when turning is no longer possible, only the
cutting edge is discarded. The tool holder remains and is not subject to wear.
Indexable inserts are subject to ISO standardization. This applies to the
size, shape, material, surface finish (coatings) and cutting angle. The way in
which the insert is fastened to the tool carrier is also standardized.
The basic shape can be varied. There are round, triangular, square,
polygonal or diamond-shaped indexable inserts.
The ISO code for indexable inserts can have up to twelve digits. The first
seven digits are mandatory information subject to standardization (shape,
angle, tolerances, radii). The eighth and ninth digits are optional information
for further angle information or machining directions. The tenth to twelfth
digits are possible optional manufacturer information on chamfers, material or
other special shapes.
Indexable inserts are particularly suitable for machining hard materials
such as steel, stainless steel or cast iron. Even hardened steel can be
machined with carbide indexable inserts. This is referred to as so-called hard
turning. Of course, the use of indexable inserts in woodworking or plastics
processing is also possible. The meaning must be checked on a case-by-case
basis.
If the indexable insert is worn, it is released from the tool carrier,
rotated or turned and a sharp cutting edge is used.
One of the most important things to consider when choosing inserts is the
type of tool they are intended for. Some inserts are designed for use with
specific milling machines, turning machines or drilling machines. It is
important to ensure that the insert selected is compatible with the intended
tool holder to ensure optimal seating of the insert in the tool holder.
Another important factor is the size of the insert. This depends on the
type of material and the type of cut you want to make. Choosing the right size
is important to ensure optimal performance and avoid cutting errors.
The material from which the insert is made is also important. High-quality
indexable inserts are made of high-quality steel or carbide. Ceramic indexable
inserts are also available on the market. The right choice of material in
combination with hardness and toughness is the basis for a good cutting result.
Indexable insert manufacturers typically provide support, warranty, and
customer service. You should pay attention to this before making a purchase
decision for a certain type of indexable inserts. This ensures that you
carefully consider the different options and choose an insert that suits your
needs.
Overall, indexable inserts offer an excellent solution for precise cuts in
a variety of applications. This primarily affects turning tools, milling tools
and drilling tools.
There are a number of recent innovations in inserts that offer improved
performance and easier handling. Some of these innovations include:
1. Coated Inserts: These inserts
have a protective coating that increases their durability, reduces friction and
protects them from corrosion.
2. Multi-Inserts: These inserts have multiple cutting edges that offer longer
life and greater productivity as they can be turned more often without having
to install a new insert.
3. Self-Aligning Inserts: These inserts can automatically adjust to the
material, resulting in higher precision and longer tool life.
4. High Precision Indexable Inserts: Engineered for applications requiring the
highest precision, these inserts provide excellent accuracy with every cut.
5. High Performance Inserts: Engineered for high performance applications,
these inserts deliver fast, efficient performance with every cut.
Overall, these innovations offer greater efficiency, better performance and
easier handling when using indexable inserts. It is important to carefully
consider the different options to choose the best insert for your needs.