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what are pcd inserts used for？
PCD, or Polycrystalline Diamond, is a superhard material synthesized under high temperature and pressure. PCD inserts are cutting tools made from this material, making them ideal for large-scale, stable, and precision machining tasks.
When machining non-ferrous metals and alloys (such as aluminum, copper, magnesium, and zinc), their high plasticity and excellent thermal conductivity often lead to "built-up edges"—where metal chips stick to the tool. This not only affects the surface finish but also accelerates tool wear. With its ultra-high hardness and low friction coefficient, PCD becomes the perfect solution to overcome these challenges. That’s why PCD inserts are widely used in automotive manufacturing, electronics, and woodworking.
In automotive engines, components like the cylinder block and cylinder head demand extremely high dimensional accuracy and surface quality. PCD inserts enable high-speed milling and boring operations while maintaining excellent precision. Surface roughness can reach as low as Ra 0.02μm, resulting in mirror-like finishes that meet strict assembly requirements.
In the wood processing industry, PCD-tipped saw blades and milling cutters are essential on production lines for engineered boards (such as MDF and particle board) and solid wood flooring. They offer high-speed cutting, slow wear rates, and leave clean, smooth surfaces with minimal burrs—reducing the need for additional sanding or finishing.
While PCD inserts offer outstanding performance, they do have limitations. Since diamond reacts chemically with iron at high temperatures, PCD tools are not suitable for machining ferrous metals like steel or cast iron, as it leads to rapid tool wear. Additionally, the material's brittleness makes it unsuitable for heavy or interrupted cuts, where chipping is likely. For best results, PCD inserts are used in continuous cutting and finishing applications.
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