Cutting Tool Geometry & Selection Flashcards

What does ISO insert designation 'C' in the shape position indicate?

Answer: 80-degree diamond shape

In the ISO insert identification system, 'C' designates an 80-degree rhombic (diamond) insert shape.

Which coating is most commonly applied to carbide inserts to improve wear resistance at high temperatures?

Answer: Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN)

TiAlN coatings have excellent oxidation resistance at elevated temperatures, making them the preferred choice for high-speed dry cutting.

What is the relief angle (clearance angle) on a cutting tool designed to prevent?

Answer: Rubbing of the tool flank against the machined surface

The relief angle provides clearance between the tool flank and the workpiece, preventing the tool body from rubbing against the just-machined surface.

A drill with a 118-degree point angle is considered standard. A 135-degree point angle is used for:

Answer: Hard materials and self-centering applications

The 135-degree split-point drill is designed for harder materials and provides better self-centering without a center punch.

Which cutting tool material has the highest hardness but lowest toughness?

Answer: Polycrystalline Diamond (PCD)

PCD is the hardest cutting tool material but is very brittle and requires vibration-free conditions to avoid fracture.

In turning, the 'side cutting edge angle' (SCEA) primarily influences:

Answer: Chip thickness and feed force

The SCEA controls the chip thickness relative to the feed per revolution and affects the axial (feed) force component.

What distinguishes a roughing end mill from a standard end mill?

Answer: It has serrated or wavy cutting edges to break chips into smaller segments

Roughing end mills (corncob mills) have serrated edges that divide chips into smaller pieces, reducing cutting forces and allowing heavier material removal rates.