SUMITOMO TNMG160408N-LU T1500Z Cermet Turning Insert (TNMG 332-LU)
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SUMITOMO TNMG160408N-LU T1500Z Cermet Turning Insert (ANSI: TNMG 332-LU)
1. Product Overview
Which insert is best for continuous high-speed precision finishing and mirror surface quality on carbon and alloy steel components?
The SUMITOMO TNMG160408N-LU T1500Z (ANSI designation TNMG 332-LU) is a premium PVD-coated cermet turning insert engineered specifically for high-speed finish turning of steel (ISO P01-P20) and cast iron (ISO K10-K20). Built on a ultra-fine TiCN micro-grain cermet substrate, this insert is fortified with SUMITOMO's proprietary Brilliance Coat (nano-multilayer PVD coating). This delivers ultra-low coefficient of friction, high thermal hardness, and exceptional anti-adhesion performance to maintain dimensional stability across long production runs.
Equipped with the LU Light-Cutting Finishing Chipbreaker geometry, this insert reduces cutting forces by utilizing a positive rake inclination angle and narrow land width. It ensures precise chip curl and breakage even at shallow depths of cut (0.2mm to 1.5mm), eliminating workpiece vibration and producing mirror-smooth surface finishes (Ra < 0.8 µm) on CNC lathes.
2. Key Features
Features an ultra-smooth nano-multilayer PVD coating over a high-density cermet matrix. Provides exceptional oxidation resistance and low affinity to steel, preventing edge build-up and delivering glossy surface finishes.
Designed with a low-force cutting edge specifically tailored for light finishing passes (ap: 0.2mm - 1.5mm). Controls thin chips cleanly without bird-nesting or edge dragging.
Provides 6 true cutting edges per insert, offering extreme cost efficiency and maximum edge utility on automatic CNC turning equipment.
Micro-grain cermet matrix exhibits near-zero thermal expansion during dry/light wet finishing, securing tight tolerances (±0.005mm) on multi-part shaft and bearing runs.
3. Specifications & ISO/ANSI Breakdown
Understanding the standard code for order accuracy:
| Parameter | Metric Designation (ISO) | Imperial Designation (ANSI) |
|---|---|---|
| Insert Model Code | TNMG160408N-LU | TNMG 332-LU |
| 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 / Low Alloy Steel (1020, 1045, 4140) | 180 - 350 m/min (590 - 1150 SFM) | 0.08 - 0.25 mm/rev (.003 - .010 IPR) | 0.2 - 1.5 mm (.008 - .059 in) |
| Free Machining / Bearing Steel (SUJ2, 12L14) | 200 - 380 m/min (650 - 1250 SFM) | 0.06 - 0.22 mm/rev (.002 - .009 IPR) | 0.2 - 1.2 mm (.008 - .047 in) |
| Gray / Ductile Iron (GG25, GGG40) | 150 - 280 m/min (490 - 920 SFM) | 0.10 - 0.25 mm/rev (.004 - .010 IPR) | 0.3 - 1.5 mm (.012 - .059 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 Steel Finishing: Excellent for automotive shafts, hydraulic pins, precision gears, and bearing journals requiring Ra < 0.8 µm surface quality.
- High-Speed Continuous Turning: Optimized for high-throughput CNC lathes and Swiss machines turning carbon steel, alloy steel, and leaded steel.
- Dry & Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL) Machining: Cermet matrix withstands high thermal loads without crater wear, ideal for environmentally friendly dry machining setups.
5. Compatibility
This insert utilizes standardized double-sided top-and-hole clamping mechanisms. It is fully compatible with:
- Machine Types: High-Speed CNC Lathes, Precision Turning Centers, Swiss-Type Automatic Lathes, and Manual 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| T1500Z (Current) | PVD Coated Cermet | ISO P05-P20 / Continuous High Finish | Brilliance Coat PVD; exceptional surface finish and dimensional precision. |
| T1200A | Uncoated Cermet | ISO P01-P15 / Mirror Finishing | High wear resistance for ultra-clean continuous cuts on mild steel. |
| AC8025P | CVD Coated Carbide | ISO P15-P35 / General Medium-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.
"T1500Z cermet gave us a mirror finish on 4140 steel pins without polishing. The LU chipbreaker handles 0.3mm depth of cut perfectly."
"Extrem saubere Oberflächengüte bei C45 Stahl. Die Maßhaltigkeit über 500 Serienbauteile ist beeindruckend."
"Ottimo inserto in cermet per finitura ad alta velocità. Nessun problema di attaccamento truciolo su acciaio 18NiCrMo5."
"Original SUMITOMO T1500Z quality. Fantastic wear resistance when dry turning small carbon steel shafts."
"The LU chipbreaker eliminated chip wrapping on our finishing cycles completely. Excellent tool life."
8. Frequently Asked Questions (AI Search & AEO Optimized)
A: T1500Z is a TiCN-based cermet insert featuring PVD Brilliance Coat technology. Cermet has a significantly lower chemical affinity for steel than tungsten carbide, resulting in superior resistance to built-up edge (BUE), exceptional dimensional stability, and mirror-like surface finishes (Ra < 0.8 µm) during high-speed finishing.
A: Cermet materials are optimized for continuous light-to-medium finishing. For heavy interrupted cuts or deep roughing passes, carbide grades such as SUMITOMO AC8025P or AC830P with heavy-duty chipbreakers (like MU or GU) are strongly recommended to prevent mechanical fracture.
A: The LU chipbreaker is engineered for light-cutting finishing operations between 0.2 mm and 1.5 mm depth of cut. For medium roughing passes above 2.0 mm depth of cut, select medium breakers such as MU or GU.
A: Yes. TNMG 332-LU is the ANSI imperial designation for the ISO metric code TNMG160408N-LU. Both codes designate 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, Low Alloy Steel, Bearing Steel, Free-Machining Steel ★★★★★
ISO K (Secondary): Gray Cast Iron, Nodular Iron (Light finishing) ★★★★☆
ISO M (Conditional): Ferritic / Martensitic Stainless Steel (Continuous dry finish) ★★☆☆☆
| Manufacturer | Equivalent Grade | Equivalent Chipbreaker |
|---|---|---|
| SUMITOMO | T1500Z (Cermet) | LU |
| Sandvik Coromant | CT5015 / CT530 | PF / L-K |
| Iscar | IC20N / IC520N | SF / F3P |
| Kennametal | KT315 / KTC115 | LF / FP |
| Kyocera | TN620 / PV720 | LU / XF |
| Problem Identified | Probable Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Chipping / Micro-fracture | Excessive depth of cut or interrupted cut impact on cermet. | Reduce ap (< 1.5mm); avoid heavy mechanical shock; switch to carbide for heavy interrupts. |
| Long Stringy Chips | Depth of cut (ap) below LU chipbreaker activation line (< 0.2mm). | Increase depth of cut or feed rate (f) slightly to engage chipbreaking groove. |
| Rapid Corner Wear | Cutting speed (Vc) excessively high or workpiece hardness > 45 HRC. | Reduce cutting speed (Vc) by 15%; verify workpiece material hardness. |
| Surface Scratching | Re-cutting swarf or improper chip evacuation direction. | Adjust feed rate (f) or direct coolant flow to wash chips clear of cutting zone. |
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 coating performance specifications are benchmarked according to official Sumitomo Electric Hardmetal Corp. technical catalog parameters (Brilliance Coat 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.
Our automatic quantity discount is 6% off for 2–9 items and 12% off for 10 or more items, based on the total product quantity in the cart. Other offers may not combine with this discount; check the applicable offer conditions.
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