Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Re: Inserts in the home shop

stratton@... wrote:

> I can't say categorically tht they don't exist, however I can think of
> two major problems with HSS inserts:
>
> 1) They would wear out quickly, and resharpening would quickly
> use up the chipbreaker groove
>
> 2) They would be too expesnive to make. Carbide inserts are (I think)
> made by pressing powder into a mold and sintering it. HSS steel ones
> would need some kind of 5 axis cnc grinding machine to get the same
> shapes.

I came to the same conclusion. Why would one want them? HSS
tool bits come in 1/2" square bars that can be ground rather
easily, if you are adept at grinding at all (I'm not). That is
the same size as my insert toolholders' shanks.

There are specialty HSS inserts, of course. Kaiser Tool Company
(thinbit) makes them for grooving tools to fit their
toolholders. I also have some triangular HSS inserts for a
boring bar made by Everede. These are listed in the Travers Tool
Cat page 336-337. So I think the general answer is: "Yes, they
exist." But if you want HSS tool bits to replace something like
a TPG or TNMG, the answer changes.

JerryK