CNC and Lathe Toolings

Expert guides, tips and insights on CNC tooling, insert selection, and machining best practices from the SAN Tools team.

Carbide Tool Coatings Explained: TiN vs TiAlN vs TiCN vs AlCrN — Which to Use When
March 17, 2026

Carbide Tool Coatings Explained: TiN vs TiAlN vs TiCN vs AlCrN — Which to Use When

TiAlN for stainless and high-speed work. TiN for basic steel. AlCrN for titanium and superalloys. TiCN for medium-speed stainless. That's the decision tree — this...

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Machining Stainless Steel: Tool Coatings, Feed Rates & Common Mistakes
March 17, 2026

Machining Stainless Steel: Tool Coatings, Feed Rates & Common Mistakes

Stainless steel destroys tools that work fine on mild steel. It work-hardens on contact, generates extreme heat at the cutting edge, and grabs the tool...

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Understanding Nose Radius, Rake Angle & Edge Geometry in Carbide Cutting Tools
March 17, 2026

Understanding Nose Radius, Rake Angle & Edge Geometry in Carbide Cutting Tools

Nose radius controls surface finish. Rake angle controls cutting force. Edge geometry controls tool life. Get any one wrong and you're burning through inserts, scrapping...

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How to Choose the Right Carbide Insert: A Complete Guide for CNC Machinists
March 16, 2026

How to Choose the Right Carbide Insert: A Complete Guide for CNC Machinists

CNMG inserts suit general steel turning; WNMG for roughing; DNMG for finishing. Pair with the right coating (TiN for speed, TiAlN for heat resistance, AlCrN...

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