Kyocera CNMG120408WQ CA315 TMD00931 Turning Insert - General Turn

Product Overview

The CNMG120408WQ is a premium-grade indexable carbide turning insert manufactured by Kyocera. Designed for general turn, this turning insert combines an ultra-fine carbide substrate with an advanced PVD coating to deliver exceptional wear resistance, thermal stability, and consistent dimensional accuracy. The 80° Rhombic (C-Shape) geometry ensures optimal cutting-edge distribution and efficient heat dissipation during prolonged machining cycles.

Engineered for modern CNC turning centers and multi-tasking machines, the CNMG120408WQ grade CA315 excels in continuous and lightly interrupted cutting of ferrous and non-ferrous materials. Its precisely ground periphery and honed edge preparation minimize built-up edge while promoting smooth chip flow, resulting in superior surface finishes and extended tool life.

ISO Designation Breakdown

Understanding the CNMG120408WQ designation helps you select the correct insert for your toolholder and application. Each position in the code conforms to ISO 1832:2017 standards:

Note: Exact metric conversions depend on manufacturer tolerances. Refer to the engineering drawing for precise values.

Engineering Dimensions & Geometry

The CNMG120408WQ is manufactured to tight geometric tolerances ensuring repeatable insert indexing and minimal runout:

• Insert Shape: 80° Rhombic (C-Shape) with 80° included angle
• Clearance Angle: 0° (neutral insert, double-sided capability)
• Tolerance Class: M (±0.13 mm on I.C., ±0.08 mm on thickness)
• Hole / Chamfer: Central mounting hole with 20° countersink and peripheral chamfer (G-type)
• Inscribed Circle (I.C.): 19.05 mm (approx. 12/8 inch)
• Thickness (S): 0.40 mm (Code 04)
• Nose Radius (rε): 0.80 mm (Code 08)
• Chipbreaker: WQ – Medium machining chipbreaker with balanced edge strength and chip control for general turning.
• Edge Preparation: Light hone (T-land optional on request)
• Surface Finish: Ground periphery, polished rake face

Grade Details – Key Grade Characteristics

Grade CA315 represents a high-performance PVD-coated carbide grade specifically developed for medium-to-high speed turning of steels and stainless steels. Its characteristics include:

• Substrate: Ultra-fine grain tungsten carbide (0.8 μm) with 10% Co binder for exceptional toughness and edge stability
• Coating: Multi-layer PVD TiAlN/TiN coating (≈ 3.5 μm total thickness) providing high hot hardness and oxidation resistance up to 900°C
• Hardness: 92.5 HRA (≈ 1600 HV30)
• Transverse Rupture Strength: ≥ 2,800 N/mm²
• Thermal Conductivity: 50 W/m·K (substrate), reducing thermal shock at entry/exit
• Coating Adhesion: HF1 rating (Rockwell C adhesion test)
• Color Code: Bronze-gold (visual identification on shop floor)

Grade Comparison Matrix

Select the optimal grade by comparing CA315 with adjacent grades in the Kyocera portfolio:

Chipbreaker Profile

WQ – Medium machining chipbreaker with balanced edge strength and chip control for general turning.

The chipbreaker land width and groove depth are precisely calculated for the CNMG120408WQ insert size. This ensures:

• Controlled chip curl radius (typically 3–8 mm depending on feed)
• Reliable chip evacuation away from the cutting zone
• Reduced cutting forces by 15–20% compared to flat-top inserts
• Minimal burr formation on the workpiece shoulder
• Stable machining across a wide feed range (0.08 – 0.50 mm/rev)

Recommended Applications & Workpiece Materials

The CNMG120408WQ grade CA315 is optimized for the following material groups and application scenarios:

• Carbon Steels: C15 to C60 (ISO P.1–P.3) – Excellent for continuous turning and light interrupted cuts
• Alloy Steels: 4140, 4340, 16MnCr5 (ISO P.4–P.5) – Balanced wear and fracture resistance
• Stainless Steels: 304, 316, 420 (ISO M.1–M.3) – Reduced built-up edge and work-hardening
• Cast Irons: FC250, FCD500 (ISO K.1–K.3) – Good for both gray and ductile iron
• Tool Steels: H13, D2 (pre-hardened to 45 HRC) – Limited application at reduced speeds
• General Engineering: Forged components, bar stock, tubes, and shafts

Not recommended for: Titanium alloys, nickel-based superalloys (Inconel), or non-ferrous metals (aluminum, copper) without specialized grade selection.

Application Map by Operation

Use this matrix to match the CNMG120408WQ with common turning operations:

Recommended Cutting Conditions

The following parameters serve as starting points. Fine-tune based on machine rigidity, coolant delivery, and surface-finish requirements:

Disclaimer: Values are indicative. Always perform test cuts and consult the manufacturer's machining guide for critical applications.

Operating Guidelines

To maximize tool life and part quality with the CNMG120408WQ:

• Coolant: Use high-pressure coolant (≥ 70 bar) directed at the rake face for chip breaking. For finishing, minimal quantity lubrication (MQL) can improve surface finish.
• Entry / Exit: Reduce feed by 30% during entry into a shoulder or groove to prevent notch wear.
• Indexing: Rotate or flip the insert after visible flank wear reaches 0.15–0.20 mm (VB). Do not wait for catastrophic failure.
• Tool Overhang: Keep toolholder overhang ≤ 4× holder diameter to minimize vibration and chatter.
• Spindle Speed: Verify machine spindle can maintain constant surface speed (CSS) during facing operations to avoid dwell marks.
• Chip Control: If chips are too long or tangled, increase feed slightly or verify coolant nozzle alignment.
• Storage: Store inserts in original packaging until use. Avoid direct contact between carbide edges to prevent chipping.

Toolholder Compatibility

The CNMG120408WQ (size 12) fits standard C-type (80° rhombic) toolholders with matching insert pocket dimensions. Compatible holder families include:

Mounting Screw: Use M3.5 × 12 mm Torx-15 screw (Kyocera part no. 820-120035) with 4.5 N·m torque. Always use a new screw when indexing inserts.

Packaging & Ordering Information

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