What Are TDC2 / TDC3 / TDC4 Inserts?

2025-10-23

1. What Are TDC2 / TDC3 / TDC4 Inserts?

These refer to CNC lathe grooving or parting inserts, commonly used for slotting, parting-off, and grooving operations.
They differ mainly by groove width:

Model	Groove Width (approx.)	Typical Use
TDC2	2.0 mm	Fine grooving or small-part cutoff
TDC3	3.0 mm	General-purpose grooving and parting
TDC4	4.0 mm	Wide groove or heavy-duty parting

2. Main Features

Material: Solid carbide
Coating: PVD or CVD coating for improved wear and heat resistance
Design: Usually double-ended, allowing two cutting edges (cost-effective)
Work Materials: Steel, stainless steel, cast iron
Compatible Holders: Typically used with TTER / TTEL type toolholders

3. Selection Guide

Determine groove width:
- Small or thin parts → TDC2 (2 mm)
- General work → TDC3 (3 mm)
- Wide or thick workpieces → TDC4 (4 mm)
Match the correct toolholder:
Check that your holder supports TDC-style inserts, e.g., TTER, TTEL, or equivalent types.
Work material consideration:
- Steel / stainless steel: choose PVD coated inserts
- Aluminum / copper / soft metals: uncoated or sharp-edge inserts may perform better
Cutting conditions & rigidity:
- Narrow inserts (TDC2) require stable setup to avoid vibration
- TDC4 is stronger and suitable for heavy parting
  4. Summary & Recommendation
  - For general grooving or cutoff → choose TDC3 (3 mm)
  - For small or narrow grooves → choose TDC2 (2 mm)
  - For thicker workpieces / heavy cutting → choose TDC4 (4 mm)

Customized Carbide Tool

Carbide Drill Bit

Carbide End Mill

Carbide Reamer

Thread Tool

Carbide Insert

Collet Chuck

Carbide Saw Blades

Carbide Burr

What Are TDC2 / TDC3 / TDC4 Inserts?

What Are TDC2 / TDC3 / TDC4 Inserts?