In this guide, we’ll cover:-
âś” Types of lathe parting tools
âś” Best materials & coatings
âś” How to use them effectively
âś” Common problems & solutions
Types of Lathe Parting Tools
1. HSS (High-Speed Steel) Parting Tools
- Best for: Beginners, manual lathes, softer materials
- Pros: Affordable, easy to resharpen
- Cons: Wears faster than carbide
2. Indexable Parting Tools (Carbide)
- Best for: Production work, quick insert changes
- Pros: Saves time, consistent performance
- Cons: Higher initial cost
3. Clamp Style Parting Tools (Chipbreaker 5% Cobalt Blades)
- Best for: Minimizing material waste
- Pros: Narrow kerf, less vibration
- Cons: Less rigid, prone to breakage
How to Use a Parting Tool Effectively
âś… Secure the workpiece tightly to prevent vibration.
âś… Use proper tool height alignment (centerline of the workpiece).
âś… Apply steady, moderate feed rate, too fast can break the tool.
âś… Use cutting fluid to extend tool life (especially for metals).
âś… Avoid excessive overhang, keep the tool as close to the holder as possible.
Common Problems & Solutions
| Issue | Possible Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Tool chatter | Loose setup, incorrect speed | Tighten tool post, adjust RPM |
| Breaking inserts | Too much feed, weak rigidity | Reduce feed, use stiffer setup |
| Poor surface finish | Dull tool, wrong cutting fluid | Sharpen/replace tool, use proper coolant |
| Tool deflection | Excessive overhang | Minimise tool extension |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right lathe parting tool depends on your material, machine type, and budget. Carbide inserts are great for CNC and heavy-duty work, while HSS is ideal for manual lathes. Proper setup and technique prevent most parting issues.
#LatheTools #MachiningTips #CNCMachining #Metalworking #DIYMachinist
