Carbide Turning Inserts vs CBN Inserts: Key Differences

When it comes to cutting tools, carbide turning inserts and CBN (Cubic Boron Nitride) inserts are two popular choices for metalworking operations. Both are designed to improve the efficiency and precision of turning operations, but they have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different applications. In this article, we will explore the key differences between carbide turning inserts and CBN inserts.

Material Composition

Carbide turning inserts are made from a combination of carbon and tungsten, while CBN inserts are made from a synthetic form of boron nitride, which is the same material as diamond. This fundamental difference in composition leads to variations in hardness, thermal conductivity, and wear resistance.

Hardness and Wear Resistance

CBN inserts are significantly harder than carbide inserts, with a hardness rating of about 9.5 on the Mohs scale compared to carbide's 8.5 to 9.0. This high hardness makes CBN inserts more resistant to wear, especially when cutting hard materials like tool steels, cast irons, and stainless steels. Carbide inserts, while still very hard, are more susceptible to wear in these applications.

Thermal Conductivity

CBN inserts have a higher thermal conductivity than carbide inserts, which means they can dissipate heat more effectively during cutting. This is particularly important when cutting materials that generate a lot of heat, such as high-speed steels and superalloys. The better thermal conductivity of CBN inserts helps to prevent tool wear and maintain tool life.

Cost

CBN inserts are generally more expensive than Korloy Inserts carbide inserts due to their superior material properties and manufacturing process. However, the higher cost of CBN inserts can be offset by their longer tool life and reduced need for frequent tool changes, especially when cutting hard materials.

Application Suitability

Carbide turning inserts are well-suited for a wide range of applications, including turning mild steels, non-ferrous metals, and cast irons. They offer good wear resistance and are cost-effective for general-purpose turning operations.

CBN inserts, on the other hand, are ideal for cutting hard materials and applications where high precision and long tool life are critical. They are commonly used in the aerospace, automotive, and heavy machinery industries, where the cost of tool wear and downtime can be substantial.

Conclusion

In summary, the key differences between carbide turning inserts and CBN inserts lie in their material composition, hardness, thermal conductivity, cost, and application suitability. Coated Insert While carbide inserts are versatile and cost-effective for general-purpose turning, CBN inserts offer superior performance for cutting hard materials and demanding applications. Choosing the right insert for your specific needs can significantly impact the efficiency and quality of your metalworking operations.