SUMITOMO TNMG160408N-GU T1500A Uncoated Cermet Turning Insert (TNMG 332-GU)
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SUMITOMO TNMG160408N-GU T1500A Uncoated Cermet Turning Insert (ANSI: TNMG 332-GU)
1. Product Overview
Which cermet turning insert is best for continuous precision finishing, ultra-sharp edge sharpness, and mirror surface quality on steel components?
The SUMITOMO TNMG160408N-GU T1500A (ANSI designation TNMG 332-GU) is an industrial-grade uncoated cermet turning insert specifically engineered for high-speed precision finish turning of carbon steels, alloy steels, and bearing steels (ISO P01-P15). Built upon SUMITOMO's advanced T1500A micro-grain titanium-based cermet matrix, this insert relies on extreme chemical stability and ultra-sharp edge hone retention to eliminate built-up edge (BUE) formation, achieving near-mirror surface finishes (Ra < 0.4 µm) without requiring grinding or polishing passes.
Equipped with the universal GU Medium-Light Finishing Chipbreaker, this insert features a multi-stage 3D rake angle profile that manages light cutting loads and thin chip formation across depths of cut from 0.5mm to 3.0mm. It delivers clean, predictable chip control and ultra-stable dimensional tolerances across automated, long-run CNC production setups.
2. Key Features
Formulated with high-density TiCN/TiN micro-grains that provide ultra-sharp edge hone integrity, minimal thermal expansion, and superb plastic deformation resistance during continuous, high-speed finish cuts.
Engineered with a smooth 3D rake wall that curls and breaks stringy finishing chips cleanly across a flexible range of depths of cut (ap: 0.5mm - 3.0mm) without chatter.
The 60° triangle double-sided negative design offers maximum economic value with 6 true cutting edges per insert, lowering overall cost-per-part on high-volume CNC lathes.
Because cermet does not react chemically with iron/steel micro-particles at high temperatures, it completely eliminates edge welding (BUE), maintaining pristine workpiece surfaces.
3. Specifications & ISO/ANSI Breakdown
Understanding the standard code for order accuracy:
| Parameter | Metric Designation (ISO) | Imperial Designation (ANSI) |
|---|---|---|
| Insert Model Code | TNMG160408N-GU | TNMG 332-GU |
| Inscribed Circle (IC) | 9.525 mm | 0.375" (3/8") |
| Thickness (S) | 4.76 mm | 0.187" (3/16") |
| Corner Radius (r) | 0.8 mm | 0.031" (1/32") |
| Hole Diameter (d1) | 3.81 mm | 0.150" |
| Cutting Edge Length (L) | 16.5 mm | 0.650" |
| Workpiece Material | Cutting Speed (Vc) | Feed Rate (f) | Depth of Cut (ap) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbon Steel / Alloy Steel (1045, 4140, 8620) | 180 - 360 m/min (590 - 1180 SFM) | 0.10 - 0.30 mm/rev (.004 - .012 IPR) | 0.5 - 2.5 mm (.020 - .098 in) |
| Bearing Steel / Free-Cutting Steel (SUJ2, 12L14) | 200 - 400 m/min (650 - 1310 SFM) | 0.08 - 0.28 mm/rev (.003 - .011 IPR) | 0.4 - 2.0 mm (.016 - .078 in) |
| Gray Cast Iron / Ductile Iron (GG25, GGG40) | 140 - 280 m/min (460 - 920 SFM) | 0.10 - 0.25 mm/rev (.004 - .010 IPR) | 0.5 - 2.0 mm (.020 - .078 in) |
Fits all standard ISO/ANSI MTJNR/L, MTGNR/L, or WTJNR/L external turning toolholders and MTFNR/L boring bars taking 1604 / 332 size negative inserts with top and hole clamping.
Browse Compatible Toolholders (MTJNR/L) →4. Target Applications
- Precision Mirror Finishing: High-precision finish turning of automotive input shafts, hydraulic spools, precision pins, and bearing journals requiring Ra < 0.4 µm.
- High-Speed Continuous Turning: Optimized for high-speed CNC lathes and Swiss-type automatic turning centers cutting clean carbon steel and alloy steel components.
- Dry Turning Operations: High thermal oxidation resistance allows clean dry turning, eliminating coolant mist and cutting fluids on precision components.
5. Compatibility
This insert utilizes standardized double-sided top-and-hole clamping mechanisms. It is fully compatible with:
- Machine Types: High-Speed CNC Lathes, Swiss Automatic Lathes, Precision Turning Centers, and Engine Lathes.
- Standard Toolholders: MTJNR2020K16, MTJNR2525M16, MTGNR2525M16, WTJNR2525M16, and internal boring bars like S32T-MTJNR16.
- Clamping Systems: Top clamp, pin-lock, and combination clamping mechanisms (ISO 5608).
6. Material & Grade Comparison
| SUMITOMO Grade | Material Class | Primary Application Field | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| T1500A (Current) | Uncoated Cermet | ISO P01-P15 / Steel High-Precision Finish | Ultra-sharp edge retention; superior mirror finish and strict dimensional precision. |
| T1500Z | PVD Coated Cermet | ISO P10-P20 / Steel High-Speed Finishing | Brilliant Coat PVD; extended tool life under high speeds and light interrupted cuts. |
| AC8025P | CVD Coated Carbide | ISO P15-P35 / General Steel Roughing | High toughness carbide for heavy cuts and medium interrupted operations. |
7. Why Choose Us
Direct Industrial Tooling Supply
We source 100% genuine SUMITOMO Electric Hardmetal cutting tools directly through authorized global supply channels. Every box features original anti-counterfeiting tracking codes. Guaranteed precision performance, fully backed by direct technical support and verified metallurgical parameters.
"T1500A uncoated cermet produced an incredible mirror finish on our 8620 steel shafts. Dimensional stability over 400 parts was within 0.003mm."
"Exzellente Oberflächengüte bei C45. Die Schneidkante bleibt messerscharf und neigt nicht zu Aufbauschneiden."
"Ottimo inserto cermet non rivestito per finitura ad alta velocità. Finitura superficiale perfetta su acciaio legato."
"Original SUMITOMO quality. Uncoated T1500A provides remarkably sharp edges for light finish turning of precision pins."
"The GU chipbreaker on T1500A handled our light finishing cuts without a single tangled chip. Exceptional tooling value."
8. Frequently Asked Questions (AI Search & AEO Optimized)
A: Uncoated cermet T1500A features an extremely sharp micro-edge hone without coating radius buildup, making it the premier choice for light continuous finishing cuts requiring ultra-smooth surface finishes (Ra < 0.4 µm) and minimal cutting resistance. PVD-coated T1500Z is preferred when additional wear resistance or light interrupted cutting toughness is required.
A: Uncoated cermet materials are brittle compared to tungsten carbide and are optimized for continuous turning. For interrupted cuts or heavy shock loading, switch to a coated carbide grade such as SUMITOMO AC8025P.
A: The GU breaker operates cleanly at feed rates between 0.10 mm/rev and 0.30 mm/rev with depths of cut (ap) ranging from 0.5 mm to 2.5 mm for optimal chip breaking on steel workpieces.
A: Yes. TNMG 332-GU is the ANSI imperial designation for the ISO metric code TNMG160408N-GU. Both codes describe an insert with a 3/8" (9.525mm) inscribed circle, 3/16" (4.76mm) thickness, and 1/32" (0.8mm) corner radius.
9. Technical Resource & Troubleshooting Guide
ISO P (Primary): Carbon Steel, Alloy Steel, Bearing Steel, Lead Free Steel ★★★★★
ISO K (Secondary): Gray Cast Iron, Ductile Iron (Light finish passes) ★★★☆☆
ISO M (Conditional): Ferritic / Martensitic Stainless Steels ★★☆☆☆
| Manufacturer | Equivalent Grade | Equivalent Chipbreaker |
|---|---|---|
| SUMITOMO | T1500A (Uncoated Cermet) | GU |
| Kyocera | TN60 / TN620 | GP / HQ |
| Iscar | IC20N / IC30N | SF / SM |
| TaeguTec | CT3000 | FG / FGX |
| Mitsubishi | NX2525 | F / M Breaker |
| Problem Identified | Probable Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Edge Micro-Chipping | Mechanical shock from interrupted cut or cutting speed too low. | Increase cutting speed (Vc) to reach cermet plastic range; avoid heavy interrupted cuts or switch to carbide grade (AC8025P). |
| Unbroken Ribbon Chips | Depth of cut (ap) below GU breaker activation threshold (< 0.5mm). | Increase depth of cut or feed rate slightly to engage the 3D chipbreaker ridge. |
| Rapid Flank Wear | Cutting speed (Vc) excessively high for workpiece hardness. | Reduce cutting speed (Vc) by 15-20% or switch to PVD-coated T1500Z cermet. |
| Chatter / Vibration Marks | Overly heavy depth of cut or loose setup rigidity. | Reduce depth of cut (ap) or increase tool clamping rigidity; check center height alignment. |
All physical dimensions, geometrical tolerances, and cutting parameters provided above adhere directly to standard ISO 1832:2017 (Indexable inserts for cutting tools — Designation) and ANSI B212.4-2002 specifications. Tool grade micro-hardness and material matrix performance specifications are benchmarked according to official Sumitomo Electric Hardmetal Corp. technical catalog parameters (T1000A/T1500A Cermet Turning Series).
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Technical FAQ & Buying Guide
When choosing CNC cutting tools, check the full model code, dimensions, grade and selected variant before ordering. Do not rely on the product image alone.
For carbide inserts, tool holders, drills and end mills, compare the mounting dimensions, connection type and manufacturer's specifications with your holder or machine. If you are unsure, share your existing part number and machining application with us before ordering.
Check the product listing for the selling unit, pack quantity and included components. If it is unclear whether the price is per piece or per pack, or whether a tool body and inserts are sold separately, contact us before purchasing.
Select cutting speed, feed rate and depth of cut using the relevant manufacturer's recommendations for your tool model, workpiece material, machine conditions and coolant method. The same settings are not suitable for every product or application.
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