CNMM

CNMM Carbide Inserts – Complete Guide

What are CNMM Inserts?

CNMM carbide inserts are 80° diamond-shaped negative inserts widely used in CNC turning, facing, and heavy-duty machining. Designed for durability and strength, CNMM inserts have a single-sided negative geometry with a thick cutting edge, making them ideal for machining steel, stainless steel, and cast iron under high cutting conditions.

The letters in CNMM define its ISO insert code:

  • C = 80° diamond shape

  • N = 0° clearance (negative rake)

  • M = Tolerance class (medium precision)

  • M = Chipbreaker/clamping system


Applications of CNMM Inserts

CNMM carbide inserts are highly versatile and used in various machining operations:

  • Heavy Roughing: Strong cutting edge allows deep cuts and high feed rates.

  • Turning Operations: Suitable for external turning, facing, and profiling.

  • Cast Iron & Steel Machining: Excellent wear resistance for hard materials.

  • Interrupted Cuts: Strong edge design withstands impact.

  • General Purpose Machining: Widely used in automotive, aerospace, and heavy engineering industries.


Key Features & Benefits

  • High Strength Cutting Edge – Handles heavy feeds and depths of cut.

  • Long Tool Life – Optimized for wear resistance and thermal stability.

  • Stable Machining – Negative rake improves insert rigidity.

  • Versatile Applications – Ideal for steels, stainless steels, and cast irons.

  • Multiple Chipbreaker Options – Ensures better chip evacuation.


Types of CNMM Inserts

CNMM inserts are available in various grades and chipbreaker styles depending on application:

  1. CNMM for Steel (P-grade) – Optimized for continuous and interrupted cuts.

  2. CNMM for Stainless Steel (M-grade) – Provides toughness against work hardening.

  3. CNMM for Cast Iron (K-grade) – Enhanced wear resistance for abrasive materials.

  4. Coated CNMM Inserts – CVD/PVD coatings for high-speed machining.

  5. Uncoated CNMM Inserts – For cost-effective general machining.


Why Buy CNMM Inserts from CNC Tools Depot?

  • World’s largest marketplace for carbide inserts & cutting tools.

  • Wide selection from brands like Sandvik, Kennametal, Korloy, Widia, Taegutec, SECO, Kyocera and more.

  • 100% genuine & high-quality CNC tooling solutions.

  • Global shipping & best industry prices.

Frequently Asked Questions

CNMM is an ISO code where C = 80° diamond shape, N = 0° clearance (negative), M = tolerance class, and M = clamping/chipbreaker style.

CNMG inserts have a hole and chipbreaker geometry, while CNMM inserts typically feature stronger negative edges suitable for roughing applications.

CNMM inserts are ideal for steel, stainless steel, and cast iron machining.

CNMM inserts are mainly for roughing and semi-finishing; for fine finishing, other geometries like CCMT or WNMG are preferred.

They perform best under medium to heavy cutting, high feeds, and interrupted cuts.

Yes, available in CVD-coated, PVD-coated, and uncoated versions depending on material and application.

Yes, M-grade CNMM inserts are specially designed for stainless steel machining.

Negative rake geometry provides stronger edges, longer tool life, and stability in heavy-duty cutting.

Popular brands include Sandvik, Kennametal, Widia, Korloy, Taegutec, SECO, Kyocera, ZCC-CT and more.

CNC Tools Depot – the world’s largest marketplace for carbide inserts and cutting tools – offers a wide range of CNMM inserts at the best prices.