Insert sizes.

Just a simple question (I think) but one that I don’t know the answer to. My current set up uses 8mm tooling. I use both HSS and insert, and I’m a great fan of the super sharp gt inserts often advertised as aluminium cutters. I’m thinking of changing to a slightly larger lathe, and this one uses 10 mm tooling. Now I know that I could still use my 8 mm stuff and shim up the bottom of the tool holders to achieve centre, but if I buy some 10mm tool holders, will my supply of inserts that fit my 8 mm tools fit the 10mm ones? My current inserts I think (I’m not at home at the moment) are 6mm edged. Does 10mm tooling use a larger insert?

ISO turning tool codes are here:

https://www.cutwel.co.uk/blog/learn-the-turning-tool-iso-code-system

https://www.secotools.com/article/120340?language=en

You will see that the ninth field in the code is the cutting edge length. Any tool that takes the same shape insert (the second field of the code) with the same number in the ninth field will use the same size insert.

Depends slightly what you are using at the moment but holders for the typical CCGT 0604-- can be had in 6, 8, 10mm square and only once you get to 12mm will the insert jump upto 09

Thanks JasonB I suspected that what you have suggested may be the case. I get easily confused looking at insert charts, and they serve more often to show up my ignorance!

I found this video very useful especially when I need to order new inserts for my tooling

Edited By Dalboy on 11/05/2023 16:18:43

/thank you Dalboy and all others. The video was useful. I’m reasonably sure now that the supply of inserts I’ve got on the draw will not need to be moved on and should fit the 10mm tooling for my new lathe. Should be able to just move on the 8mm holders.