Turning tools are cutting tools that are used to remove material from a rotating workpiece during the turning process. Turning is a machining operation that involves the removal of material from a cylindrical workpiece to create a finished part with the desired shape and dimensions. Turning tools are typically made of high-speed steel, carbide, or diamond and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
The most common types of turning tools include:
- Carbide-tipped tools: These tools have a steel shank with a carbide tip, which is much harder and more wear-resistant than high-speed steel. Carbide-tipped tools are commonly used for high-speed turning and machining of materials like steel, cast iron, and stainless steel.
- High-speed steel (HSS) tools: These tools are made of a special type of steel that retains its hardness and toughness even at high temperatures. HSS tools are less expensive than carbide tools and are often used for turning softer materials like aluminum and brass.
- Diamond-tipped tools: These tools have a diamond-coated tip and are used for precision turning of hard and abrasive materials like ceramics and composites.
- Boring bars: These tools are used for enlarging or creating internal holes in a workpiece. Boring bars come in various shapes and sizes and are commonly used in the automotive and aerospace industries.
- Threading tools: These tools are used for creating threads on the surface of a workpiece. Threading tools come in different shapes and sizes and are commonly used in the manufacture of screws, bolts, and other threaded parts.
- Parting tools: These tools are used for cutting off a section of the workpiece from the rest of the material. Parting tools are available in various widths and are commonly used in the manufacture of shafts, bolts, and other cylindrical parts.
Choosing the right turning tool for a specific application depends on several factors, including the type of material being turned, the desired surface finish, and the cutting speed. It is essential to choose the right tool for the job to ensure optimal results and reduce the risk of tool wear and breakage.
