Carmex 16IR/EL0.055BXC Grooving Insert Solid Carbide

Product Description

The CARMEX 16IR/EL0.055BXC is a solid carbide grooving insert designed for precision grooving and turning operations on metalworking lathes and CNC turning centers. Built to Series 16 specifications, this insert features a 0.055 inch cutting width and a maximum depth of cut of 0.071 inches, making it suited for shallow, accurate groove profiles. The TiN coating is applied via PVD process, providing surface hardness and wear resistance. A positive rake angle of 15 degrees and an external relief angle of 10 degrees promote clean chip evacuation and reduce cutting forces. This insert is installed by machinists and CNC operators in job shop and production turning environments.

This insert is rated for use on cast iron and steel workpieces, covering ISO material grades K and P. The 16IR/EL insert style supports both left-hand and right-hand cutting orientations, allowing flexible setups on a single toolholder series. Typical applications include external and internal grooving, thread relief, and undercut operations where tight width tolerances are required. The Series 16 designation corresponds to a 3/8 inch inscribed circle and a 0.157 inch hole diameter for secure clamping in compatible toolholders.

Key Features

• Solid carbide construction with PVD-applied TiN coating for wear resistance on steel and cast iron
• 0.055 inch cutting width with a maximum depth of cut of 0.071 inches
• Positive rake angle of 15 degrees for reduced cutting forces and cleaner chip flow
• Left-hand and right-hand cutting capability in a single insert style
• Corner radius of 0.004 inches for precise groove geometry
• Conforms to ISO standards; material grade C6

Compatibility

Designed for use with Series 16 grooving toolholders accepting a 3/8 inch inscribed circle insert with a 0.157 inch mounting hole diameter.

Installation Notes

Installation is performed by a qualified machinist or CNC technician. Power down and lock out the machine spindle before seating or replacing inserts. Use the appropriate torx or hex key to the toolholder manufacturer torque specification - do not overtighten, as carbide inserts are brittle and can fracture under excessive clamping load. Verify insert orientation matches the required hand of cut before resuming operation.