CNC tool holder runout tolerance specification. Complete reference tables for engineering decisions.
Complete reference tables and engineering data for stainless properties. All values verified against ISO, ANSI, and manufacturer standards.
Not all tooling manufacturers publish their Stainless Properties the same way. While the underlying physics doesn't change, the recommended ranges, safety margins, and application guidance vary considerably across Tungaloy, YG-1, and Ingersoll. Understanding these differences helps you make better tooling decisions.
Takes a material-group-first approach with Ionbond-coated grades as default. Their application guides provide conservative starting values with wide adjustment bands. CoroPlus digital integration offers real-time Stainless Properties optimization via ToolGuide.
Known for aggressive starting parameters — particularly in steel and cast iron. NOVO digital platform auto-adjusts Stainless Properties based on tool path engagement. Often the go-to reference for high-feed applications.
Pioneers of multi-directional Stainless Properties — their IQ series inserts thrive in turning profiles where engagement angle shifts continuously. Application-specific grades for ISO P/M/K with narrow, optimized Stainless Properties windows.
Key takeaway: Always default to your specific tool supplier's Stainless Properties charts. The differences between Tungaloy, YG-1, and Ingersoll reflect different coating chemistries (Ionbond vs. in-house) and carbide substrate formulations. A Tungaloy parameter won't necessarily translate to a YG-1 equivalent — even at the same ISO grade designation.
Stainless steels span a wide range of machinability -- from free-cutting 303 to difficult-to-machine duplex and precipitation-hardening grades. Selecting the right grade for both performance and manufacturability is essential.
304 has 50% lower thermal conductivity (heat stays at the tool tip), 50% higher work hardening rate (the material gets harder as you cut), high ductility (long stringy chips), and high galling tendency (chips weld to the tool). The combination of work hardening and poor heat transfer makes 304 one of the most challenging materials in terms of tool life per unit of material removed.
Use sharp, AlTiN-coated carbide tools with positive rake angles. Maintain consistent feed (never dwell or rub -- that work-hardens the surface instantly). Use through-tool coolant at correct concentration (8-10%). Keep speeds 30-50% lower than for carbon steel. Climb-mill to minimise work hardening. Avoid re-cutting chips -- ensure good chip evacuation.
303 (austenitic, free-machining) at 78% and 416 (martensitic, free-machining) at 85% are the easiest. Both contain sulphur or selenium additions for chip-breaking. For the best combination of corrosion resistance and machinability, 303 is the standard choice. If hardness is also needed, machine 416 in the annealed condition, then heat treat.
Use this reference to compare stainless steel grades. 303 is the best choice for high-volume machined parts requiring corrosion resistance. 304/316 are the standard general-purpose stainless grades but require careful machining strategy. For the most difficult grades (duplex, PH), use premium carbide tooling and conservative cutting parameters.
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