Myford ML7 tools

I have a Myford ML7 and want to buy some more cutting tools.

To ensure the tip is center to the chuck what size tools should I buy? I am using this tool holder:

Also what type of tool should I buy, HSS, more carbide, indexable?

And another poing what tools would I bneed for machining stainless steel

Thanks

Hello,

!0mm tool shanks suit Myford size lathes, final cutting height will need to be set with shims under the tools. Your picture looks about right.

I use brazed tip carbide and indexable carbide tools on all materials except when threading when I use an HSS tool that is easily resharpened

You will eventually find machine and feed speeds that suit what you are doing. The usual mantra of keeping the feed heavy combined with a slow traverse ensures that the carbide tools are loaded appropriately to carve off metal in a satisfying way. Careful though with intermittent cutting when using carbide, repeated shock loads will crack and crumble the cutting edges.

HSS prefers light cuts. It easily loses the edge by getting hot.

I hope that helps

Brian

Decisions Decisions,

Are all indexable tools carbide

No, both brazed tips and indexable tools are available in carbide and I think both have a. place in the workshop.

Brian

Ah, so is the question 'are all inserts made from carbide', or 'are all carbide tools based on inserts'? The answer in both cases is 'no'.

Most inserts are made from carbide, or mixes thereof, but there are other types. Two that spring to mind are:

PCD - polycrystalline diamond for high speed machining of non-ferrous materials - up to 3000m/min; that's about 112mph - I've never used them as my lathe doesn't run that fast

CBN - cubic boron nitride used for machining hardened steel - I have used these to turn fully hardened silver steel, about 64Rc

In both cases the inserts are eye-wateringly expensive, £25 to £50.

Regards,

Andrew

Carbon steel loses its edge because high speed cutting causes the tool to heat up and lose its temper (if you see what mean). High Speed Steels (the clue is in the name) can usually go to red heat before they lose performance.

Petro1head, if you buy tools that take standard tips (CCMT is a good general shape) then you will be able to try the various grades of carbide that are available.

cheers,

Rod