Find state-of-the-art inserts for cutting tools Technology is advancing in the area of coated cutting tool inserts, with new coatings that reduce wear. New materials for cutting tool inserts include ceramic, cermet, silicon nitride, CBN and PCD. You can increase the uses of your cutting tools by upgrading to new, longer-lasting and more efficient products.

I recommend:  DirectIndustry provides product inforamtion for Sandvik Coromant USA, which offers a new generation of inserts for steel milling, steel turning and cast iron milling. MMS Online lists products for ISCAR, which keeps abreast with the newest coating technology and continually expands its line of inserts. Download a cataloge for NTK Cutting Tools, which uses the latest technology to create their cutting tool inserts.

Shop for custom or specialty metal cutting inserts If you're having trouble finding the exact type of cutting insert you need for a new application, consider having the tool insert custom made. It may cost more, but be worth it in the long run because you'll be increasing what your cutting tool can do.

I recommend:  MacDonald Carbide Co. makes carbide blanks for inserts and specializes in custom-made parts. Custom Cutting Tools, Inc. makes specialty cutting tools for precision turning and milling of metal, plastic and wood.

Look into purchasing refurbished or wholesale machining inserts You can save money and reduce the waste of metal when you get your cutting tool inserts refurbished rather than simply scrapping them out. If you prefer new yet affordable inserts, try the option of ordering cutting tool inserts at wholesale prices. This is a great option to increase efficient production if you go through a lot of inserts quickly and need them replaced often.

I recommend:  Stegman Tool can fix damaged inserts at a price 40% to 50% less than a new insert would cost. At Wholesale Tool Co., Inc. you can order cutting tool inserts at wholesale prices.