If you own or are thinking of owning a metal shop, you surely understand the importance of carbide inserts. Carbide inserts allow you to cut, mill, turn, thread and groove all types of metals. From rough cuts to fine detail work, carbide inserts are a must-have for every metal shop. There are many types of carbide-inserts, such as milling inserts, round, triangle or square inserts, threading inserts, single- or double-corner inserts, and diamond-tipped inserts.

Which carbide inserts you need depends upon the type of work you're doing. For instance, you'll need a threading insert if you're threading metal piping, and a diamond insert for fine cutting. You may even require custom inserts from time to time. Whatever your needs, when it comes to carbide inserts, consider the following:

1. Finding carbide inserts from the top US manufacturers.

2. Ordering custom carbide inserts for those jobs that demand special attention.

3. Buying generic carbide inserts to save money.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Go with top names in the carbide inserts business for the highest quality products

When it comes to tools and accessories, it's wise to turn to familiar names you can trust. When shopping for carbide inserts, look for recognized manufacturers whose products are sturdy, reliable and long-lasting. Your completed work can only be as good as the tools you use.

I recommend: Find a huge inventory of diamond, threading, grooving and other carbide inserts manufactured by David Richards Engineering Corp. at PGS Commodity Supply. Place a 10-piece minimum order at Machine Shop Discount Supply for any type of carbide insert you might need, from names like Valenite and Dorian.

Take on the toughest jobs with custom or advanced carbide inserts

As diverse as carbide inserts are, with hundreds of different types, there still might be instances where you'll benefit from an advanced insert or need a custom insert. Special orders involving intricate detail, for instance, might require a custom carbide insert. Custom inserts will arm you with the capability to take on any job with confidence.

I recommend: Contact Spartan Carbide with your specific requirements and get the custom carbide inserts you need, with quality assurance and the latest grinding technology that ensures the right insert for your custom job. TheToolingShop.com offers advanced carbide inserts--longer-lasting inserts capable of turning hard metals up to 300% faster than normal inserts. Stegman Tool can not only provide you with custom carbide inserts, they can also refurbish your old ones for an added cost-savings benefit.

Stay within any budget by shopping for generic carbide inserts

Though relying on top names in the carbide insert business might bring you the most comfort, it can take more out of your checking account. If you're just starting up a business or are working under a tight budget for any reason, you might shop for generic carbide inserts for now.

I recommend: Find hundreds of generic carbide inserts in all shapes, angles and types at CarbideDepot.com, in packages of 10 at bargain prices. Get coated or uncoated generic carbide inserts that are tough, resistant and great for roughing even stainless steel, at Toolinghouse.com.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Don't just throw out your old carbide inserts, recycle them. Nearly one-third of tungsten use in 2007 came from recycled products.