The Korloy VCGT160404 AK H01 is a high-precision, uncoated carbide turning insert designed for semi-finishing and finishing operations where sharpness, surface finish, and cost efficiency are essential. This insert features a rhombic shape (35°) with an “AK” chip breaker, using Korloy’s ultra-fine grain H01 carbide substrate. Although it has no coating, its polished carbide surface and edge geometry provide low resistance cutting, reduced buildup, and improved tool life, particularly in non-ferrous materials like aluminum, copper, and soft alloys. It also performs well in general steel work when lighter feeds and good cooling are used. Ideal for automotive, die & mold, aerospace, and general engineering shops aiming for high finish, lower tooling costs, and less downtime. Available in bulk quantities.

🔧 Key Features & Specs

  • Geometry & Style: VCGT/VCGT160404 — rhombic (35° included angle), chip breaker “AK” style, neutral hand (no left/right) insert. 

  • Grade: H01 — uncoated carbide, ultra-fine grain.
    Coating / Treatment: Uncoated (polished carbide substrate) — sharp cutting edge, reduced tendency to build-up, ideal for materials that don’t demand coated inserts. 

  • Cutting Application: Primarily turning operations (semi-finishing to finishing), particularly on non-ferrous, aluminum, copper, plastics; also useful in general steel & cast iron when conditions allow, especially when surface finish & edge sharpness are priorities.

✅ Why It’s a Best Seller

  • Less downtime: The sharp uncoated edge (H01) gives excellent finishing with minimal chipping; fewer insert changes.

  • Better surface finish: Thanks to precision geometry & sharp edge, you’ll get smoother turning results, especially in lank cuts.

  • High wear resistance in its category: Even though uncoated, the ultra-fine carbide substrate in H01 gives good wear resistance in lighter duty and non-ferrous applications.

  • Cost-efficient choice: No premium coating adds cost; yields excellent performance in the right material/cutting condition.

🏭 Industries & Use Cases

  • Automotive – aluminum parts, soft alloys, gearbox housings

  • Aerospace – prototype machining, non-critical aluminum components

  • Die & Mold – finishing cavities, polishing, trimming non-ferrous mold parts

  • General Engineering / Job Shops – lots of aluminium work; small‐batch steel / cast iron when finish is priority

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Frequently Asked Questions

It excels in non-ferrous metals (aluminum, copper), soft alloys, and finishing passes in steel/cast iron when you want sharp edge & minimal edge build-up.

Not if used in appropriate cutting conditions. The H01 grade uses ultra-fine carbide which gives good wear resistance in lighter duty and softer materials. For hard or abrasive materials you might need a coated or tougher grade.

The “AK” chip breaker geometry helps with controlled chip flow and prevents chip jamming especially in semi finishing / finishing operations in lighter materials.

It’s not optimized for very heavy or rough cuts. For heavy cutting or interrupted cuts, a tougher/-coated grade or different geometry might be more effective to avoid premature wear or chipping.

  1. Use proper speed & feed for the workpiece material, maintain coolant or lubrication, keep the edge sharp (avoid rubbing), and switch inserts before significant wear to avoid workpiece damage. Bulk purchases + correct setup = lowest cost per component.