Seco 03096655 VBMT160402-F1 TP3501 Carbide Turning Insert

Product Description

The SECO 03096655 is a solid carbide turning insert in the VBMT-F1 series, designed for precision finishing operations on steel and stainless steel workpieces. It carries the ISO designation VBMT160402-F1 and ANSI code VBMT330.5-F1. The insert features a 35-degree diamond (rhombic) shape with a positive rake and positive side clearance, giving it a sharp cutting edge suited for light, accurate passes. The TP3501 grade uses a CVD-applied Duratomic coating stack of TiCN and Al2O3 plus Cr, delivering moderate wear resistance combined with toughness. Corner radius is 0.20 mm (0.0079 inches). The insert is screw-held and neutral-handed.

This insert is intended for finishing passes in turning applications including straight turning, back turning, facing, and profiling. The F1 chip breaker geometry is optimized for finishing cuts on steel (ISO P) and stainless steel (ISO M) workpieces, making it appropriate for material grades P20, P30, and P40 as well as M-grade stainless. It fits toolholders designed for the VBMT insert style and is suited for CNC turning centers in both production and job-shop environments. A licensed machinist or CNC operator performing close-tolerance turning work is the typical end user.

Key Features

• 35-degree diamond (V) insert shape for low cutting forces during finishing passes
• TP3501 Duratomic CVD coating (TiCN plus Al2O3 plus Cr) for wear resistance and toughness on steel and stainless steel
• F1 chip breaker geometry optimized for finishing operations
• Sharp cutting edge style with positive rake and positive side clearance
• Neutral hand — compatible with left-hand and right-hand toolholder setups
• Two cutting edges per insert; screw-held mounting method
• Multi-use application: turning, back turning, facing, and profiling

Compatibility

Designed for use in VBMT-style toolholders. Primary workpiece material is steel (ISO P); secondary workpiece material is stainless steel (ISO M). Conforms to ANSI and ISO insert standards. ANSI size code 330.5; ISO size code 160402.

Installation Notes

Installation is performed by a qualified machinist or CNC setup technician. Power down and lock out the machine spindle before seating or replacing inserts. Use the correct torque driver for the clamping screw to avoid cracking the carbide substrate — do not overtighten by hand or with an uncalibrated tool. Inspect the toolholder pocket for wear or debris before seating a new insert, and confirm the insert is fully seated before resuming cuts.