Grooving Tool Failure and Solution Guide

problem bursolution 1. Ensure tool centre height. 2. Use sharp tool (index more often). 3. Use positive rake PVD-coated insert. 4. Use correct grade for workpiece material. 5. Use correct geometry (e.g., positive rake for work-hardening material). 6. Chamfer before grooving. 7. Change tool path.
poor surface fi nish1. Increase speed. 2. Use sharp tool (index more often). 3. Dwell tool in bottom 1–3 revolutions (max). 4. Use proper chip control geometry. 5. Increase coolant fl ow/concentration. 6. Ensure proper setup (overhang, shank size). 7. Use correct geometry (e.g., positive rake for work-hardening material).
groove bottom that is not fl at1. Use sharp tool (index more often). 2. Dwell tool in bottom 1–3 revolutions (max). 3. Reduce tool overhang (increase rigidity). 4. Ensure correct tool alignment. 5. Reduce feed rate at groove bottom. 6. Use a wider insert. 7. Ensure tool centre height.
poor chip control1. Use “K” chip control geometry insert. 2. Use sharp tool (index more often). 3. Increase coolant concentration. 4. Adjust feed rate (usually increase fi rst).
chatter1. Reduce tool and workpiece overhang. 2. Adjust speed and feed (usually increase fi rst). 3. Ensure centre height.
insert chipping1. Use correct grade for workpiece material. 2. Increase speed. 3. Reduce feed. 4. Use a stronger grade. 5. Increase tool and setup rigidity.
side walls not straight1. Check tool alignment for square. 2. Use correct insert hand. 3. Reduce workpiece and tool overhang. 4. Use sharp insert (index more often).

Practical Solutions to

Common Grooving Problems

Wider than the Groove Tool

How to Cut Wider Grooves

1. Plunge out both sides of groove width. 2. Plunge centre area to remove web of material remaining. 3. Plunge both sides of groove at the required angle, using approximately one-half the width of the grooving tool for maximum width of cut.

Finish Turning the Groove

chip surface fi nishing.