The Duratomic insert line-up for steel-turning applications is now complete with the introduction of the TP3501 grade from Alcester-based Seco Tools (UK) Ltd (www.secotools.com).

Aimed at machine shops turning steel and stainless-steel components, TP3501 is suited to heavy-duty operations involving interrupted cuts. The grade can also be used for machining awkward-shaped or asymmetrically shaped parts where weak or unstable work-holding is being used — and for components with small internal features.

TP3501 inserts feature Seco’s Duratomic Al2O3 coating technology, which — via ‘manipulation at atomic level’ — is said to deliver improved mechanical and thermal performance, plus a better balance between insert toughness and hardness.

The inserts, which are chrome in colour, incorporate Seco’s ‘Used Edge Detection’ feature; this allows users to see if an edge has been used.

There are just under 400 different insert types in the TP3501 grade. These feature a wide range of geometries, including the established M6 double-sided negative chip-breaker. TP3501 joins Seco’s previously launched TP2501, TP1501 and TP0501 grades.