How a WNMG Insert Works in CNC Turning
Many workshops use this insert because it has many cutting edges. When one edge wears out, it can be rotated and used again, saving time and improving productivity.
What Makes WNMG Shape Special
The shape code of these inserts means something important. In the code WNMG Insert:
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W means the insert has a trigonal shape with an 80° included angle. This shape gives good strength in heavy cutting.
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N stands for neutral or negative rake angle, meaning the cutting edge is stable and resists chipping under force.
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M shows the tolerance or precision class of the insert.
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G is about the chip breaker and geometry.
This geometry makes the tool good for general turning work from roughing to finishing. A trigonal shape also lets the insert have multiple cutting edges — usually six — which means you can use each insert longer before replacing it.
Why Negative Rake Matters
The negative rake angle on the wnmg insert means the tool does not cut like a knife slicing bread. Instead, it pushes into the material with strength and stability. This means the tool edge is less likely to chip or break when cutting harder metals like stainless steel or cast iron. This makes the insert great for heavy cuts or tougher materials.
Materials and Coatings
Many of these inserts are made of tungsten carbide, which is much harder than steel. Some come with PVD or CVD coatings that help reduce friction and protect the insert from heat damage. Ceramic versions exist too, which are more heat resistant and can work well at very high speeds. Cermet grades are also produced, giving a good balance between wear resistance and surface finish quality.
Choosing the right material and coating affects how long the insert lasts and how well it performs for specific jobs. For example, a PVD coated insert will generally last longer when cutting hard steel compared to an uncoated one.
Uses of the WNMG Insert
The wnmg insert is widely used in general turning and facing operations on CNC lathes. It works well for:
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Rough turning – when large amounts of material must be removed quickly.
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Semi-finishing – for preparing the part before a final finish.
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Finishing – when a smooth and precise surface is needed at the end of the job.
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Hard materials – like stainless steel, alloy steels, and cast iron.
Because it has multiple edges that can be indexed, it is efficient in terms of cost per edge compared to some other insert styles. Indexable means you can flip the insert or rotate it to use another edge when one becomes dull.
WNMG Insert Angle Explained
The angle on these inserts affects how they cut. The typical shape has an 80° included angle, which helps control cutting forces and allows good chip formation and evacuation. A stable cutting edge angle is important when cutting hard metals because it reduces vibration and improves surface finish. This makes the part look better and reduces the need for extra finishing work.
Insert Holders: Why They Matter
An insert holder is the tool body that holds the wnmg insert tightly while the machine turns. The holder must match the insert shape and size — different holders fit different insert numbers (like WNMG 080408 or WNMG 080412). The holder also determines how deep the tool can reach and how stable the cutting action will be. A good match between holder and insert means longer insert life and better cutting performance.
Different holders come with clamp systems, screw systems, and sometimes coolant delivery options to supply cutting fluid right at the insert tip. Choosing the correct holder is as important as choosing the right insert.
Typical Costs and Value
The cost of wnmg insert products can vary a lot depending on the grade, coating, and quantity you buy. Standard carbide versions often cost a few hundred rupees per piece when bought in packs, and ceramic coatings or special grades cost more. When buying boxes of 10 or more, the price per insert often becomes lower.
It is important to understand cost per edge and tool life rather than only looking at the sticker price. Because these inserts are double sided with multiple edges, the real cost per edge can be lower than some other insert types. This makes them cost-effective for daily use in a shop.
Ceramic Version: When to Use It
Ceramic versions of these inserts are designed for very high speed cutting and high temperature environments. Ceramics can tolerate higher heat and can be used when steel or other inserts fail early due to heat. However, ceramic inserts are usually more expensive and need rigid setups and correct speeds to work properly.
Best Practices for Long Life
To get the best life from a wnmg insert, you should:
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Use correct cutting speeds and feeds for your material.
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Use coolant when possible to reduce heat.
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Match the insert grade to the metal being cut.
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Ensure the tool holder is rigid and fits well.
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Maintain machine alignment to avoid excess vibration.
These simple steps help the insert last longer and give better surface finish quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What does WNMG stand for?
Answer: It stands for an 80° trigonal shaped, negative rake, medium tolerance insert with a specific chipbreaker style.
Q2. Can WNMG inserts be used for finishing?
Answer: Yes, they are versatile and can be used for roughing, semi-finishing, and finishing jobs.
Q3. Do all holders fit WNMG inserts?
Answer: No, you must use the correct holder that matches the insert size and geometry.
Q4. Are ceramic WNMG inserts worth it?
Answer: They are worth using for high-speed conditions and heat resistance but cost more.
Q5. Why do shops use WNMG instead of other inserts?
Answer: They offer more cutting edges and better cost per edge for general turning work.
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