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Download PDF Using Carbide Inserted-Tip Tool Instructions
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Carbide Inserts (thread, groove)
These Carbide inserts are used in the Insert Tool Holder and are used for either threading or grooving.
Thread Cutting
- 60° threading insert for cutting outside threads (P/N 22675)
Groove Cutting Inserts (available in multiple widths and profiles)
Standard Grooves
- .031″ insert (P/N 2269)
- .062″ insert (P/N 2270)
- .094″ insert (P/N 22694)
- .125″ insert (P/N 22695)
Radial Grooves
- .031″ radius insert (P/N 22692)
- .062″ radius insert (P/N 22693)
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Related products
55° RH and LH Tool Holders w/Carbide Inserts
These tool holders are available individually in right-hand or left-hand configurations, or as a matched pair. Each holder includes a 55° carbide insert, a hold-down screw, and a Torx® key for installation. Designed with a 3/8" square shank, they fit standard 3/8" tool posts, and the insert tip is precisely 0.375" from the base of the holder—an industry-standard dimension.
The 5° offset angle of the cutting tip provides added versatility for certain operations. For example, when the holder is squared with the crosslide, it allows you to turn an outside diameter (O.D.) up to a shoulder and then finish the shoulder by backing the tool out—while maintaining proper tool clearance.
Constructed from case-hardened steel with a durable black oxide finish, these holders are built for long-lasting performance.
Although carbide insert tools are more costly than high-speed steel (HSS) tools, they offer an advantage: when the cutting edge becomes dull or chipped, you can simply rotate the insert 180° to use the second edge—essentially giving you two tools in one.
While HSS tools remain the primary choice for miniature machining due to their low cost, resharpenability, and adaptability for custom form tools, carbide insert tools are invaluable for specific applications. They maintain a sharp edge when cutting hard or abrasive materials, reduce tool wear, and allow for faster machining—reasons why they're widely used in professional machine shops.
Note: Tool orientation is named by the direction the chip exits the tool. A right-hand tool has its cutting edge on the left, and the chip peels off to the right.
Updated Note: The previously used straight-groove chip breaker insert shown in some images is no longer available. All current inserts now come with the spider web-style chip breaker as shown here.
RH 55° and 80° 3/8″ Boring Bars w/Carbide Inserts
These 3/8" diameter boring bars feature a carbide insert secured with a Torx® screw and come complete with a Torx wrench. Choose between:
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A 55° right-hand insert, suitable for starting holes as small as 3/4", ideal for reaching sharp internal corners
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An 80° insert, which fits into a smaller 1/2" hole and offers added strength for roughing operations
Each holder measures 3-1/4" long and can bore to a depth of just over 2" when properly secured with two set screws. Manufactured from durable 1144 Stressproof® steel with a black oxide finish, these tools are available individually or as a discounted set.
Why Choose Carbide Insert Tools?
While high-speed steel (HSS) remains common for small machine tools due to its low cost and resharpenability, carbide inserts offer significant advantages in demanding applications:
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Longer-lasting edges when cutting hard metals like stainless steel, titanium, or abrasive materials such as carbon fiber
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Faster cutting speeds and greater efficiency
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Each insert can be rotated 180°, effectively giving you two cutting edges per insert
Although carbide inserts can't be resharpened, their durability and versatility make them a preferred choice in professional machine shops.
Note: The older straight-groove chip breaker insert is no longer available. Current inserts include the spider web-style chip breaker, as shown in the updated images here & here