CNC inserts come in various colors, each representing a specific type of material suited for different machining tasks. Understanding these color codes and the properties they represent is crucial for efficient and effective machining operations.
CNC inserts are essential components in modern metal cutting operations, used widely in turning, milling, parting, grooving, and threading. These inserts are color-coded to indicate their material composition, which determines their suitability for specific machining tasks. This guide explains the meaning behind these colors, how to identify the material of CNC inserts, and the detailed classification and characteristics of these tools.
Understanding CNC Insert Colors
White: YG8 Carbide Inserts
- Application: General-purpose carbide inserts.
- Properties: Suitable for a wide range of machining tasks.
Gray: YT15 for Cast Iron
- Application: Ideal for machining cast iron.
- Properties: Provides excellent wear resistance.
Blue: YW2 for Steel and Stainless Steel
- Application: Designed for milling steel and stainless steel.
- Properties: Balances toughness and wear resistance.
Yellow: YT5 for Steel and Stainless Steel
- Application: Commonly used for machining steel and stainless steel.
- Properties: Offers high durability and heat resistance.
White: YW1 Ceramic Inserts for Steel
- Application: Specifically for machining steel components.
- Properties: Extremely hard and wear-resistant, ideal for high-speed operations.
How to Identify CNC Insert Materials
CNC insert materials can often be identified indirectly through the letters on the underside of the insert. Here’s a breakdown of common material codes:
- YG: Tungsten-cobalt carbide.
- YT: Tungsten-cobalt-titanium carbide.
- TW: Tungsten-cobalt-titanium-niobium carbide.
Types and Applications of CNC Inserts
CNC inserts, also known as indexable inserts, are the mainstream products in modern metal cutting. They are used in various fields such as turning, milling, parting, grooving, and threading. These inserts can be categorized by their materials into coated inserts, cermet inserts, non-metallic ceramic inserts, carbide inserts, and superhard inserts.
Characteristics:
- High Efficiency: Significantly improves processing efficiency compared to traditional welding or alloy inserts.
- High Wear Resistance: Coating technology advancements continue to enhance wear resistance and heat tolerance, further improving efficiency and reducing costs.
Decoding CNC Insert Models
CNC insert models typically consist of 10 characters that indicate various features and dimensions of the insert. Here’s a breakdown of a common model example, DNMG-MS:
- D: 55° rhombic insert.
- N: Zero-degree relief angle.
- M: Precision grade of the insert.
- G: Geometry of the top surface and central hole.
- 15: Cutting edge length of 15 mm.
- 04: Insert thickness of 4.76 mm.
- 08: Tip radius of 0.8 mm.
Detailed Identification Method of CNC Inserts
1. Shape Identification:
- First letter indicates the shape: H, O, P, S, T, C, D, and E represent hexagonal, octagonal, pentagonal, square, 80° diamond, 55° diamond, and 75° diamond shapes, respectively.
2. Relief Angle Identification:
- Second letter indicates the relief angle: A (3°), B (5°), C (7°), D (15°), E (20°), F (25°), G (30°), N (0°), P (11°), and O (other angles).
3. Precision Grade:
- Third letter indicates the precision grade: M for general rough and semi-finish machining, G for finish machining and superhard inserts.
4. Top Surface Geometry and Central Hole:
- Fourth letter indicates the geometry of the top surface and the central hole configuration.
5. Numerical Specifications:
- First group of numbers indicates cutting edge length.
- Second group indicates insert thickness.
- Third group indicates tip radius.
6. Material Code:
- Two-letter codes indicate the material: P (general steel), M (stainless steel), K (gray or ductile iron), N (aluminum/non-ferrous metals), S (heat-resistant or titanium alloys), H (high-hardness materials).
Factors Influencing CNC Insert Wear
Abrasive Wear:
- Caused by hard particles on the workpiece surface scratching the insert.
Adhesive Wear:
- Occurs under pressure and temperature, where new surfaces form bonds that tear away material from the insert surface.
Adhesive wear is a significant factor for carbide inserts at medium to low cutting speeds.
Conclusion
Understanding the color codes and material compositions of CNC inserts is crucial for optimizing machining operations. By correctly identifying and selecting the appropriate insert, you can achieve higher efficiency, better surface finishes, and longer tool life. This guide provides the necessary information to make informed decisions when working with CNC inserts, ensuring precision and productivity in your metal cutting tasks.
