Cermet Turning Inserts

Metaloy offers a specialized range of Cermet turning inserts, designed for applications that demand high surface finish, long tool life, and consistent dimensional accuracy. Cermet inserts—composed of ceramic particles (typically titanium carbonitride, TiCN) bonded with a metallic binder (usually nickel or cobalt)—combine the hardness of ceramics with the toughness of metals. These properties make them highly effective in finishing operations, particularly in steel (P), stainless steel(M) and cast iron(K) machining.

Cermet inserts are ideally suited for continuous cuts at high speeds, where their low chemical affinity with iron-based materials reduces cratering and built-up edge formation. Metaloy’s cermet product line offers both uncoated and PVD-coated variants to meet diverse machining requirements.

Uncoated Cermet Inserts

These inserts are ideal for light finishing operations where excellent surface quality is required. Key benefits include:

    • Low friction and minimal heat generation at the cutting zone
    • Stable wear patterns for predictable tool life
    • Minimal built-up edge, ensuring a smoother workpiece finish

PVD-Coated Cermet Inserts

Coated cermet grades incorporate thin PVD layers of Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) to enhance performance in higher-speed and tougher conditions. These provide:

  • Improved oxidation resistance and wear protection
  • Higher edge stability in medium to high-speed finishing operations
  • Better performance in semi-interrupted cuts compared to uncoated cermets