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Shape Classification and Selection of Cubic Boron Nitride Cutting Tools
Release date:
2026-05-09
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Cubic boron nitride (CBN) inserts are also a type of CBN tool and rank among the primary cutting tools for turning difficult-to-machine materials. Depending on the specific machining operations required for different workpieces, CBN inserts are designed in various shapes and categorized accordingly. In this article, we will discuss the classification and selection of CBN insert geometries.
In general, CBN inserts come in various shapes, including round, triangular, square, polygonal, and diamond‑shaped, with the choice primarily guided by factors such as the surface geometry of the workpiece, the cutting method, tool life, and the number of insert indexing operations.
1. Equilateral triangle: This geometry is suitable for external turning tools, face-turning tools, and internal boring tools with a principal rake angle of 60° or 90°. CBN inserts with this geometry have a relatively small cutting edge radius and are best used with lower cutting parameters.
2. Square: The cutting edge of a square insert has a tip angle of 90°, which is larger than the 60° angle of a triangular insert, thereby enhancing its strength and heat dissipation performance. This type of CBN insert offers good versatility and is primarily used in external turning tools, face-turning tools, and boring tools with principal rake angles of 45°, 60°, 75°, and similar values.
3. Polygonal: The cutting edge angle is larger than that of a square‑shaped insert, offering greater strength, durability, and heat‑dissipation area; however, it generates higher radial forces during cutting and is suitable only when the machining system has excellent rigidity.
4. Diamond-shaped cutter: Primarily used for machining contoured surfaces and curved surfaces; its shape and dimensions can be determined in accordance with national standards, taking the workpiece into consideration.
5. Circular: If the machine tool has good rigidity, a circular CBN insert can be selected to meet the high-feed requirements of turning operations.
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