Cutting tool inserts and tool blanks are replaceable parts you attach to tools that cut metal, plastics, stone, wood and other materials. They contain the sharp edge of a tool for cutting applications like boring, drilling, grooving, milling, sawing and shearing.
Cutting tool inserts come in different shapes and sizes. The one you need depends on the task you use it for. They can be round, square, rectangular, triangular, rhomboid, pentagonal or octagonal. Using high-quality inserts can increase your productivity by speeding up the manufacturing process and improving accuracy in making your product.
1. Find cutting tool inserts manufacturers who keep abreast of the latest technology and create innovative products.
2. Contact manufacturers who make custom cutting inserts or specialty inserts, if you find it difficult to get what you need ready-made.
3. Consider money-saving options like refurbished inserts or wholesale inserts for cutting tools.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
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.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Before buying cutting tool inserts from a particular company, see what quality certifications it holds. If the manufacturer has ISO certification, you can be sure it has a globally recognized level of quality. ISO updates its certification standards every six months, so look for recently approved companies.
The official source of Cutting Tool Inserts is the Cutting Tool Inserts page at Business.com
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