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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
80° Carbide Insert
While carbide inserts may have a higher upfront cost, they offer excellent value by providing four usable cutting edges per insert and significantly reducing time spent on tool sharpening.
Carbide cutters excel at machining difficult materials such as cold-rolled steel, stainless steel, and bronze, delivering consistent performance and long tool life. They are also compatible with aluminum, brass, and leaded steels—though for these softer materials, a finely honed high-speed steel tool may still yield the best surface finish.
This is the 10-pack of replacement carbide inserts for the following tool holders:
3-piece Center Drill Set
Center drills are essential for accurately drilling starter holes in the ends of workpieces, particularly when mounting stock between centers on a lathe. Each drill creates a small pilot hole followed by a 60° countersink, which provides a seating surface for the 60° point of the lathe center.
In milling applications, center drills are commonly used to start holes precisely. The exact hole location can be dialed in using the mill’s calibrated handwheels, and the center drill ensures the hole begins accurately without drifting.
This set includes three double-ended, high-speed steel (HSS) center drills:
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#1 drill: 1/8" shank
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#2 drill: 3/16" shank
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#3 drill: 1/4" shank
The larger shank diameter of a center drill ensures the tip remains centered, reducing the risk of the drill "walking" as the hole is started. After the center drill has established the starter hole, it is replaced with a standard drill bit to complete the hole to the desired diameter.
⚠️ CAUTION: Always use a suitable cutting lubricant and back the drill out frequently during use. This prevents the delicate tip from overheating or breaking off.
Ceramic Insert Tool Holder
Designed for cutting hard materials like tool steel, this ceramic insert tool holder features a triangular insert mounted at a negative rake angle. The downward tilt of the insert provides proper side clearance, allowing you to use all six cutting edges—three per side—before needing a replacement. The 3/8" shank fits Sherline’s P/N 7600 tool post (not included). A clamp, hold-down screw, and 3/32" hex key are included for secure installation. Replacement inserts are available as (P/N 22659).
Why Use Ceramic Inserts?
Ceramic cutting tools are a powerful addition to the modern machinist’s toolbox. Though more brittle than high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide, ceramic inserts excel at cutting hardened steels and other tough materials, especially at higher spindle speeds. This makes them ideal for jobs that would otherwise be extremely difficult or impossible—such as turning down the shank of an end mill.
This insert’s large nose radius helps achieve an excellent surface finish, particularly when profiling.
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Each insert offers six usable cutting edges:
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Rotate 120° to access a new edge (3 per side), then
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Flip the insert for 3 more cutting points on the opposite face
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In comparison, traditional carbide inserts offer only 2–4 cutting edges, making ceramic inserts cost-effective over time, despite the higher upfront cost.
Usage Notes & Safety Information
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Ceramic inserts are brittle and should be used with proper technique to avoid chipping or breakage.
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Caution: Chips produced during cutting can be extremely hot—even red-hot. Use protective eyewear, gloves, and fire-safe clothing when operating.
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Some materials, such as tool steel, may form long, stringy chips that wrap around the part ("bird’s nest" effect).
Use a chip brush and stop the machine frequently to clear chips. These chip clusters can ignite if they come in contact with hot chips.