Tech Tip: Increase Indexable Milling Insert Life

Hey pss...you want to hear a secret about extending your inserts tool life. Let me tell you. In shoulder milling, it's important to remember that even the smallest adjustment in depth of cut can increase your inserts life. A standard shoulder mill insert has a hole in the center just like this for the screw. This wall between the hole in the cutting edge does not have the same amount of carbide behind it making it a weaker point especially in smaller inserts. If you had a ten millimeter insert and you're repeatedly cutting a depth of five millimeters you're on the weakest part of the insert, but if you move slightly above or below the center line you'll be utilizing a sturdier part of the insert and increasing your tools performance!

Troubleshooting Indexable Milling

Q: How can I increase indexable milling insert life?

There are a number of things you can do to increase indexable milling insert life, including:

Use the correct insert grade and geometry for the application. Different insert grades and geometries are designed for different materials and cutting applications. Using the correct insert grade and geometry will help to ensure that the insert is not overloaded and that it is cutting efficiently.
Use the correct cutting parameters. Cutting parameters, such as feed rate, speed, and depth of cut, can have a significant impact on insert life. Using the correct cutting parameters will help to reduce the amount of stress on the insert and extend its life.
Use a coolant. Using a coolant helps to lubricate the insert and workpiece and remove heat from the cutting zone. This can help to reduce insert wear and extend its life.
Inspect and index inserts regularly. Inspect inserts regularly for signs of wear and tear. If an insert is worn or damaged, index it to expose a new cutting edge. If an insert is excessively worn or damaged, replace it.

Here are some additional tips for increasing indexable milling insert life:

Use sharp inserts. Sharp inserts cut more efficiently and produce less heat, which can help to extend insert life.
Avoid interrupted cuts. Interrupted cuts can cause the insert to chip or break, which will reduce its life.
Use a positive rake angle. A positive rake angle helps to reduce the amount of force required to cut the material, which can help to extend insert life.
Use a light feed rate. A lighter feed rate will reduce the amount of stress on the insert and extend its life.
Use a high speed. A higher speed will help to reduce the amount of heat generated during cutting, which can extend insert life.

By following these tips, you can increase indexable milling insert life and improve your productivity.