Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Inserts R US

In a message dated 27-Apr-01 22:32:13 Central Daylight Time,
jvicars@... writes:

> Is there a cheap source of no-name carbide inserts? These **** inserts are
> gonna break me? Any suggestions?
>

JV: I began using insert-tooling only a decade back, and only avocationally,
so I have used so little, my total cost for inserts has been tolerably-low.
However, they are clearly way-overpriced!

So, recently, I saw some "standard size" plain-flat triangles (TiN coated,
even!) in the Enco or HF catalog, and ordered some (same price, each,
individually, or in packs of ten! Go figger! They were out of the 1/64th R
I wanted, so they substituted some with HUGE corner-R's (must be at least
1/32"?). They are "hard" and all that, but do NOT seem to be as "tough" as
U.S.-made inserts. But I am only a hobbiest, with NO "training", so, what do
I know! But the price was not just "cheaper", but VASTLY-cheaper, so maybe
"inch-for-inch" of cut, they are a bargain. I'd have to do a "study" to find
out, and, well, I ain't THAT bored!

One thing: I find I hafta make "custom bits" now and then, and I have saved
my "nicked, and/or worn-out" inserts all along, and silver-solder (braze)
them to home-brew holders made of 3/4 x 3/4 1018, and then a little work with
a diamond-grit wheel, and I got a custom lathe-bit. A little time, and 50¢
worth of bar-stock, and a right-good tool is ready! Never have tried brazing
a TiN coated insert. Wonder if that impedes, or burns-off, or what???
Anyone know?

Jan Rowland


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