The TNMA 160408 LF3018 insert is engineered for demanding cast iron turning tasks where tool life, surface finish, and cost per component are critical. Fabricated in LF3018 grade carbide with advanced wear-resistant coatings, this double-sided negative insert gives you 6 usable cutting edges. With a 9.525 mm inscribed circle (IC), 4.76 mm thickness, and 0.8 mm corner radius, it excels in external turning / roughing operations on cast iron with stable cutting conditions. This insert helps reduce downtime, maintain consistent surface finish, and support higher material removal rates. Ideal for automotive cast components, engine parts, general iron works, and mould base roughing. Available in bulk lots — let CNC Tools Depot help you optimize your tooling & cost.

Key Features & Specs

  • Geometry: Triangular negative insert (ISO TNMA / ANSI TNMA332), 6 cutting edges, inscribed circle (IC) ≈ 9.525 mm, thickness ~ 4.76 mm, corner (nose) radius ~ 0.8 mm.
    Grade & Coating: Grade LF3018, designed for high wear resistance. Coated (PVD/CVD or similar composite coatings) to resist abrasion, reduce heat build-up, and sharpen edge retention.
    Cutting Applications: Ideal for external turning / roughing operations on cast iron; works also under medium‐duty machining with stable setups. Not primarily for milling or drilling.

Why It’s a Best Seller

  • Less downtime: Its durable LF3018 grade and quality coating mean fewer insert changes and reduced machine stops.

  • Better surface finish: Sharp cutting edge plus correct radius ensure cleaner cuts on cast iron, with less chatter.

  • High wear resistance: Maintains edge integrity under abrasive cast iron, high temperatures—good resistance to flank wear and built-up edge.

Application Industries

Perfect choice for shops in Automotive, Foundry & Heavy Castings, General Engineering, Dies & Mould where cast iron components are common (e.g., engine blocks, brake discs, industrial cast parts).

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Frequently Asked Questions

LF3018 is a carbide grade optimized for cast iron machining. It balances toughness and wear resistance, with coatings that improve heat resistance and reduce flank wear.

The TNMA 160408 has a triangular negative geometry, 60° included angle, inscribed circle ≈ 9.525 mm, thickness 4.76 mm, nose radius (corner radius) ~ 0.8 mm. Each insert provides 6 edges.

External turning / roughing of cast iron, especially in heavy batches. Good when operation allows stable clamping and cutting conditions. Not ideal for finishing or interrupted cuts with unstable setups

Because the coating + grade combo offers longer life under abrasive cast iron; fewer insert changes means lower tooling costs, less re-work, better output. Also supplies good surface finish without needing expensive tooling.

While exact speeds depend on machine & cast iron alloy, rough turning with TNMA160408 often uses feed in the range ~ 0.38–0.60 mm/rev, depth of cut (ap) from ~ 1.0–5.0 mm (depending on stability and power). Use higher speeds if coolant & rigidity are sufficient. Always test conservatively first.