TaeguTec has expanded its acclaimed Rhino-Turn product range with the introduction of the VNGX-ST chip breaker, a double-sided, four-corner insert specifically engineered for heavy-duty turning operations. As a world-leading cutting tool manufacturer, the new addition from TaeguTec responds to growing industry demand for tooling solutions that combine exceptional productivity with extended tool life in demanding machining applications, whilst minimising carbide and subsequently tooling costs.
The VNGX-ST insert joins TaeguTec's recently launched ST chip breaker family, which has already established a reputation for delivering superior performance in heavy material removal operations. By incorporating the ST geometry into the versatile VNGX platform, TaeguTec now offers manufacturers a cutting solution that significantly reduces machining time whilst maintaining exceptional surface quality and dimensional accuracy.
Compatible with Rhino turning holders, the insert design provides immediate cost benefits with its four indexable cutting edges. This effectively doubles the usable corners compared to traditional two-edge heavy-duty turning insert designs. This results directly into reduced tooling costs and fewer tool changes, reducing downtime and maximising machine utilisation.
Although featuring a 35° rhombic geometry often linked with lighter finishing tasks, the VNGX-ST delivers impressive versatility thanks to its advanced chip breaker design. The insert manages depths of cut up to 3mm, spanning from fine finishing to robust roughing operations. This broad operating range reduces the need for multiple tool changes, streamlining production and enhancing process reliability.
A key innovation of the VNGX-ST design is its high 25° rake angle, which produces significantly lower cutting forces during machining. This reduction in mechanical stress decreases vibration, enabling higher cutting parameters and a better surface finish. Component accuracy also benefits from reduced deflection, while tool life is greatly extended as cutting edges operate under decreased thermal and mechanical loads. The combined stability and geometry ensure continuous chip formation, leading to low cutting forces and excellent component quality.
Ideally suited to Swiss-type sliding head turning centres, TaeguTec specifically recommends this new VNGX-ST insert with operations that utilise servo oscillation functions, like
Citizen UK’s LFV software or
Star’s HFT or SCP software. This combination optimises chip breaking whilst maintaining the high surface quality essential for precision turned components in medical, aerospace and automotive applications.
TaeguTec offers the VNGX-ST in six insert variations, available with either sharp edge or micro-honed edge preparations to suit workpiece materials from steel and stainless to more challenging alloys. The range includes PVD-coated grades TT9020 and TT4430, both engineered to resist wear and extend tool life in demanding production environments.