Cut Off Tool Recommendations

[mcarvey]

I've never been really happy with my parting tool/cut off tool solution and am starting to look into insert type cut off tools. I usually cut aluminum and mild steel on a manual lathe.

For a while I have been using carbide tipped cut off tools (http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INSRIT?PMAKA=383-7292 . They seem to do the job, but I have to resharpen them fairly regularly when the carbide chips, or replace them when it breaks off alltogether. At 11 dollars each, their price is reasonable, but I haven't been blown away by their performance in cutting steel. I am assuming this is due to the zero rake angle.

Has anyone used the cut off tool kit from Enco, and if so how does it perform? http://www.use-enco.com/CGI/INSRIT?PMAKA=422-2914 I don't mind spending the money if it does a great job but don't want to plunk down 140 bucks for something that isn't an improvement. What are you guys using for cut off tools/parting tools?

Thanks in Advance.

-Matt

[BobWarfield]

I've got the Aloris equivalent of what you've shown and like it a lot. I also use some pre-ground HSS tools that are real nice. Mini-reviews are on my page here:

http://www.thewarfields.com/cnccookb...tingCutoff.htm

Best,

BW

[joecnc1234]

I use an iscar same design works great especially if you keep the chips clear.
joe

[dandy]

I agree with Joec iscar is the best c/o system i have used

Dand

[tool_man]

I used to use the insert type cutoff blades (Iscar) but,now I just use the parallel T-shape blades.Slow speeds and plenty of coolant and I am able to cleanly cut off about anything from mild steel to 304 stainless without any problem.Much cheaper too.They don't give those inserts away.

[joecnc1234]

Tool_man are you running production. in a production environment you have to change tools. The cost of the insert justifies itself dramatically compared to resharpening and resetting a hss cutoff blade.

[mcarvey]

I just wanted to say that I tried out the cut off tool, and it is a noticeable improvement. Thanks for everyone's help!

-Matt