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to increase the load on the tool and to improve
                                                               metal removal rates. In addition, this cost effective
                                                               innovation ensured the simple and economical
                                                               replacement of the cutting element when worn
                                                               or in case of breakage. It also allowed the
                                                               manufacturing of cutting segment and the
                                                               tool bodies to be separated.

                                                               Depending on the shape of the inserts used, they
                                                               could be quickly indexed ensuring the rapid change
                                                               of a worn cutting corner by several methods, such
                                                               as rotating the insert on its axis or by flipping it
                                                               upside down. Initially the new cutting segments
                                                               were known by several names, such as throwaway
                                                               tips, interchangeable inserts and replaceable
                                                               inserts. However, today the more widespread,
                                                               generic term - indexable inserts - is used.


                                                               The technology used in the manufacturing
                                                               of the indexable inserts is based on powder
                                                               metallurgy, comprising of several manufacturing
                                                               processes. Progress in science and technology
                                                               has significantly impacted on the manufacturing
                                                               process of inserts. In the past, inserts were
                                                               produced by the use of manual machines. Hence,
                                                               the application of various complex powder
                                                               metallurgical processes was very difficult or even
                                                               impossible to perform.
                                                               The introduction of more progressive industrial
                                                               equipment, featuring advanced automation
                                                               and computer control, made the technological
                                                               processes more stable, controllable and reliable,
                                                               including:
                                                             •  preparing carbide powder (mixing)
                                                             •  pressing the powder (compacting)
                                                             •  sintering compact
                                                             •  post-sintering processing
                                                             •  coating

                                                               Consequently, the mechanical properties of
                                                               manufactured inserts became more uniform,
                                                               predictable and repeatable; these factors
                                                               allowed dramatic improvements in terms of
                                                               the accuracy of sintered inserts by reducing
                                                               production tolerances. Today, a typical insert
                                                               production press is a highly engineered device
                                                               that is computer controlled. A moveable punch



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