Turning tools with inserted nanograin carbide discs have become very popular. Maybe someone will discuss the special qualities of nanocarbide discs as opposed to standard carbide machinist's bits and answer some questions that come to mind. Nanocarbide and standard carbide tool bits may be so different that my questions concern apples & oranges, but I'll ask anyway. Feel free to laugh.
Is the edge that can be put on 'nano' enough sharper than can be put on 'std' to justify the cost? Can nanocarbide sustain a thinner bevel than 'std'? Is the 'nano' edge sharper or just lasts longer? Can a homeshop green stone sharpen 'nano' or 'std' carbide? Do the 'nano' tools' cut, shearscrape, scrape or all of the above? Are the 'nanos' brittle like the 'std' carbides? How much of the advantage of 'nanos' is due to the shape of the shaft or the disc instead of the type of carbide?
Silly questions maybe, but I have several slightly worn carbide machine tool inserts, both square and triangular. Most local small shops give them away for a small turning. Could we use them in a turning tool or would we just incur the same or worse risks and disappointments as using brittle old files? Please understand that I'm not advising anyone to use either one.
I'm sure there is a reason why the nanograin carbide turning tools are justifiable, but I have to wonder if it's like the M2 vs particle or cryo steel arguments in that the advantages in edge life etc. are hardly worth the difference in cost except for busy professionals or amateurs with pride of deep pockets. :)
Turn to Safety, Arch Fortiter