CNC indexable inserts are widely used cutting tools in CNC machining, known for their efficiency, durability, and precision. They are mainly divided into milling inserts and turning inserts, which are used in milling and turning processes, respectively. These inserts differ in shape, function, and material to meet various machining needs.

Milling Inserts

Milling inserts are indexable inserts used in milling operations, typically mounted on milling cutters. Milling is a process where the rotating tool removes material from the surface of the workpiece, suitable for machining flat surfaces, slots, and complex contours. Milling inserts generally feature a multi-edge design, which significantly improves machining efficiency. Common shapes of milling inserts include square, diamond, and triangular.

Applications:

• Face Milling: Used for machining flat surfaces, such as steel plates and aluminum surfaces.
• Profile Milling: Suitable for machining formed surfaces or complex curves.
• High-Efficiency Roughing: Used for rapid material removal.

Function and Material:Milling inserts are typically made of carbide, offering high hardness and wear resistance, making them suitable for high-speed cutting. Some milling inserts are also coated with materials like Titanium Nitride (TiN) or Aluminum Oxide (Al2O3) to enhance wear resistance and oxidation resistance.

Turning Inserts

Turning inserts are indexable inserts specifically designed for turning operations, usually mounted on turning tools. Turning is a process where the workpiece rotates while the cutting tool removes material, suitable for machining cylindrical, conical, or complex surfaces. The shapes of turning inserts vary, including square, round, diamond, and triangular.

Applications:

• External Turning: Used for machining external cylindrical surfaces, such as shafts.
• Internal Turning: Suitable for machining internal bores, such as pipes.
• Thread Turning: Used for thread machining.

Function and Material:Turning inserts are also usually made of carbide, but depending on the machining requirements, materials such as ceramics and Cubic Boron Nitride (CBN) might be used. Some turning inserts are also coated to improve cutting performance and tool life.

Comparison between Milling and Turning Inserts

While both milling and turning inserts are indexable, they differ in their applications and functions. Milling inserts are primarily used for machining flat surfaces and complex contours, focusing on machining efficiency and surface quality, while turning inserts are used for machining rotational bodies and threads, emphasizing precision and tool durability. In terms of material, milling inserts are more focused on wear resistance during high-speed operations, while turning inserts prioritize impact resistance and thermal stability.