Rotationally asymmetric double-sided groove cutting insert, insert holder and cutting tool

Abstract

A double-sided parting-off cutting insert (22). The cutting insert includes two cutting portions (42) at opposite ends thereof oriented at 90° to each other. The cutting insert includes a pair of rake engagement grooves (48) and support engagement grooves (50), each one of the pair converging in a direction away from the respective cutting portion. The insert holder (24) has a resilient upper clamping jaw having an upper engagement ridge and a lower base jaw having a lower engagement ridge. The gap therebetween forms an insert receiving slot having a slotted opening. The upper engagement ridge and the lower engagement ridge converging in a direction away from the slotted opening. When the cutting insert is removably mounted in the insert holder, the cutting insert is placed in the insert receiving slot and resiliently clamped therein to form a fastening position for the cutting tool.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The subject matter of the present application relates to cutting tools, particularly grooving and parting-off cutting tools of the type in which a cutting insert is resiliently held within an insert-receiving slot of an insert holder, particularly where the cutting insert is rotationally asymmetric and double-sided with two opposing cutting portions, more particularly where the cutting insert has two pairs of engagement grooves, and more particularly where the two engagement grooves of each one of the pairs converge towards each other in a direction away from the respective cutting portions. [Background technology]

[0002] Grooving and parting cutting inserts typically have two opposite end faces and opposite upper and lower faces extending between the end faces. The upper and lower faces are designed for clamping engagement with corresponding clamping surfaces on the base jaw and clamping jaws of the insert receiving slot of the insert holder. The upper and lower faces may each include upper and lower engagement grooves or ridges, respectively, that mate with complementary grooves or ridges on the clamping surfaces, thereby reducing lateral displacement of the insert relative to the insert receiving slot.

[0003] The cutting insert may be of a single-sided type, with a single cutting portion disposed at one end of the cutting insert. The cutting portion includes a cutting edge formed at the intersection of the top surface and one of the end surfaces. The engagement grooves or ridges may converge toward each other in a direction away from the cutting portion. In such a configuration, the cutting insert may be secured in the insert receiving slot in a "self-gripping" manner. That is, the base jaws and the clamping jaws resiliently clamp the cutting insert without requiring additional elements, such as screws, to force the base jaws and the clamping jaws to close. Furthermore, the self-gripping configuration may permit insertion of the cutting insert into the insert receiving slot without requiring an insertion key to open the base jaws and the clamping jaws or to orient the cutting insert into the insert receiving slot. Examples of such cutting inserts are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,054,967 and 5,076,739.

[0004] The grooving and parting cutting insert may be of the double-sided type (i.e., have two cutting portions at both ends of the cutting insert) with two cutting edges formed at the intersection of the top surface with both end faces. The above-mentioned "self-gripping" configuration may be realized by having two longitudinally offset upper engagement grooves on the top surface of the cutting insert, each of which, together with the lower engagement groove, converges towards each other in a direction away from the respective cutting portion. An example of such a cutting insert is disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 10,857,603.

[0005] Another example of a double-sided parting and grooving insert is U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20180133806, in which opposing cutting edges are oriented transversely to one another, where a first mounting groove associated with the insert's primary rake face extends in a generally angled direction from one end of the cutting insert toward an associated cutting portion, while a second mounting groove associated with the insert seating surface extends in a generally angled direction between the opposing ends of the insert.

[0006] It is an object of the present subject matter to provide a new and improved double-sided "self-gripping" cutting insert. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present subject matter, there is provided a double-sided cutting insert comprising: first and second opposing flank surfaces, and an insert peripheral surface extending about an insert longitudinal axis between the first and second flank surfaces, the insert peripheral surface including opposing first and first support surfaces and opposing second rake and second support surfaces all connecting the first and second flank surfaces; a first insert central axis oriented perpendicular to the insert longitudinal axis and extending through the first rake face surface and the first support face surface; a second insert central axis oriented perpendicular to both the first insert central axis and the insert longitudinal axis and extending through the second rake face surface and the second support face surface; a first cutting edge and a second cutting edge formed at an intersection line between the first flank surface and the first rake face surface and the second rake face surface; a first rake engagement groove and a first support engagement groove recessed in the first rake face surface and the first support face surface, respectively, and opening at least into the second flank surface; a second rake engagement groove and a second support engagement groove recessed in the second rake face surface and the second support face surface, respectively, and opening at least into the first flank surface; the first rake-engagement groove and the first support-engagement groove extend along a first rake groove longitudinal axis and a first support groove longitudinal axis, respectively, that converge toward one another in a direction from the first flank surface toward the second flank surface to define an acute first groove wedge angle; The second rake engagement groove and the second support engagement groove extend along a second rake groove longitudinal axis and a second support groove longitudinal axis, respectively, that converge toward each other in a direction from the second clearance surface toward the first clearance surface to define an acute second groove wedge angle.

[0008] According to a second aspect of the present subject matter, there is provided an insert holder comprising a clamping portion, the clamping portion comprising: opposing first and second clamp portion sides and a clamp portion front end surface extending between the first and second clamp portion sides; a lower base jaw and an opposing upper clamping jaw resiliently displaceable relative to the lower base jaw; an insert receiving slot longitudinally elongated in a direction defining a slot longitudinal axis and opening into said clamping portion front end face to form a front slot opening, said insert receiving slot being formed from a gap between said lower base jaw and said upper clamping jaw, said insert receiving slot comprising: a slot wall defined by: an insert receiving slot comprising a clamp jaw surface, a base jaw lower surface, and a slot rear surface extending between said clamp jaw surface and said base jaw lower surface, said clamp jaw surface being formed on said upper clamp jaw and said base jaw lower surface being formed on said lower base jaw; upper and lower slot-engaging ridges projecting from the clamp jaw face and the base jaw lower face, respectively; the upper slot-engaging ridge and the lower slot-engaging ridge extend along upper and lower ridge longitudinal axes, respectively, that converge toward one another in a direction from the clamp portion front end face toward the slot rear face to define an acute ridge wedge angle; The insert receiving slot has a slot vertical axis oriented perpendicular to and intersecting the slot longitudinal axis, the slot vertical axis extending through the clamp jaw face and the base jaw lower surface: the slot rear surface includes a slot rear stop surface and a slot rear concave surface oriented in different directions, the slot rear stop surface being closer to the first clamp portion side surface than the slot rear concave surface and the slot rear concave surface being closer to the second clamp portion side surface than the slot rear stop surface; The slot rear concave surface overlaps the slot rear stop surface in a direction along the slot vertical axis and is farther from the front slot opening than the slot rear stop surface in a direction along the slot longitudinal axis.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present subject matter, there is provided a cutting tool comprising: A cutting insert of the type described above; 1. An insert holder comprising a clamping portion, the clamping portion comprising: opposing first and second clamp portion sides and a clamp portion front end surface extending between the first and second clamp portion sides; a lower base jaw and an opposing upper clamping jaw resiliently displaceable relative to the lower base jaw; an insert receiving slot longitudinally elongated in a direction defining a slot longitudinal axis and opening into said clamping portion front end face to form a front slot opening, said insert receiving slot being formed from a gap between said lower base jaw and said upper clamping jaw, said insert receiving slot comprising: a slot wall defined by: an insert receiving slot comprising a clamp jaw surface, a base jaw undersurface, and a slot rear surface extending between said clamp jaw surface and said base jaw undersurface, said clamp jaw surface being formed on said upper clamp jaw and said lower base jaw undersurface being formed on said lower base jaw; upper and lower slot-engaging ridges projecting from said clamp jaw face and said base jaw lower face, respectively; The upper slot-engaging ridge and the lower slot-engaging ridge extend along upper and lower ridge longitudinal axes, respectively, that converge toward one another in a direction from the clamp portion front end face toward the slot rear face to define an acute ridge wedge angle: The cutting tool is adjustable between a removal position and a clamping position, and in the clamping position of the cutting tool: the cutting insert is removably attached to the insert holder; The cutting insert is disposed in the insert receiving slot and is resiliently clamped therein by the upper clamping jaw.

[0010] According to a fourth aspect of the present subject matter, there is provided a double-sided cutting insert, said cutting insert comprising: first and second opposing flank surfaces, and an insert peripheral surface extending about an insert longitudinal axis between the first and second flank surfaces, the insert peripheral surface including opposing first and first support surfaces and opposing second rake and second support surfaces all connecting the first and second flank surfaces; a first insert central axis oriented perpendicular to the insert longitudinal axis and extending through the first rake face surface and the first support face surface; a second insert central axis oriented perpendicular to both the first insert central axis and the insert longitudinal axis and extending through the second rake face surface and the second support face surface; a first cutting edge and a second cutting edge formed at an intersection line between the first flank surface and the first rake face surface and the second rake face surface; a first rake engagement groove and a first support engagement groove recessed in the first rake face surface and the first support face surface, respectively, and opening at least into the second flank surface; a second rake engagement groove and a second support engagement groove recessed in the second rake face surface and the second support face surface, respectively, and opening at least into the first flank surface; the cutting insert does not have 180° rotational symmetry about all three of the insert longitudinal axis, the first insert central axis, and the second insert central axis; the first support-engagement groove is mirror-symmetrical about a first insert bisecting plane that includes the insert longitudinal axis and the first insert central axis for at least half of its length; The second support-engagement groove is mirror-symmetrical about a second insert bisecting plane that includes the insert longitudinal axis and the second insert central axis for at least half of its length.

[0011] It is understood that the above is a summary and that the features described below may be applicable to the subject matter of the present application in any combination, for example, any of the following features may be applicable to a cutting insert, an insert holder or a cutting tool.

[0012] The first bearing surface and the second bearing surface may be identical to one another.The first rake face surface and the second rake face surface may be identical to one another.The first flank surface and the second flank surface may be identical to one another.

[0013] The first flank surface may comprise a first insert stopper surface and a first flank that may be oriented in different directions from each other, the first flank extending from the first cutting edge towards the first insert stopper surface, and the second flank surface may comprise a second insert stopper surface and a second flank that may be oriented in different directions from each other, the second flank surface extending from the second cutting edge towards the second insert stopper surface.

[0014] The first scoop engagement groove and the second scoop engagement groove may overlap in a direction along a longitudinal axis of the insert.

[0015] The first insert stop surface and the second insert stop surface may be planar and oriented perpendicular to the insert longitudinal axis.

[0016] The first flank surface and the second flank surface may be inclined relative to the insert longitudinal axis such that the cutting insert is a positive double sided cutting insert.

[0017] One of the first rake longitudinal axis and the first support groove longitudinal axis may be parallel to the insert longitudinal axis. One of the support groove longitudinal axes may be parallel to the insert longitudinal axis.

[0018] The first support groove longitudinal axis may be parallel to the insert longitudinal axis, and the second support groove longitudinal axis may be parallel to the insert longitudinal axis.

[0019] The first rake groove has a first rake groove depth that may increase in a direction away from the first flank surface, and the second rake groove has a second rake groove depth that may increase in a direction away from the second flank surface.

[0020] The first rake groove has a first groove width that can increase in a direction away from the first flank surface, and the second rake groove has a second groove width that can increase in a direction away from the second flank surface.

[0021] The first and second rake engagement grooves may be spaced apart from the first and second flank surfaces along the insert longitudinal axis, and the first and second support engagement grooves may open into the first and second flank surfaces, respectively.

[0022] The first and second rake engagement grooves may each comprise two opposing rake groove flank surfaces that may be inclined inwardly in opposite width directions of the respective rake engagement grooves such that they converge toward one another.The first and second support engagement grooves may each comprise two opposing support groove flank surfaces that may be inclined inwardly in opposite width directions of the respective support engagement grooves such that they converge toward one another.

[0023] Each rake flute flank surface may have a respective rake flute abutment surface, and each rake flute abutment surface may optionally be a planar surface. When viewed in cross section along a plane perpendicular to the insert longitudinal axis, the rake flute abutment surfaces may define an external rake flute flank angle. Each support groove flank surface may have a respective support groove abutment surface, and each support groove abutment surface may optionally be a planar surface. When viewed in cross section along a plane perpendicular to the insert longitudinal axis, the support groove abutment surfaces may define an external support groove flank angle.

[0024] Two rake groove flank surfaces may transition into each other via a rake groove transition portion, optionally defined by a line or edge. Two opposite support groove flank surfaces may transition into each other via a support groove transition portion, optionally defined by a line or edge. The rake groove transition portion and the support groove transition portion of the first rake engagement groove and the first support engagement groove may each be included in a first insert bisection plane that includes the insert longitudinal axis and the first insert central axis. The rake groove transition portion and the second support engagement groove and the second support engagement groove may each be included in a second insert bisection plane that includes the insert longitudinal axis and the second insert central axis.

[0025] The cutting insert may not have a through hole.

[0026] The upper slot-engaging ridge and the lower slot-engaging ridge may extend to the clamp portion front end face.

[0027] The slot rear stop surface may be planar and oriented perpendicular to the slot longitudinal axis.

[0028] The lower ridge longitudinal axis may be parallel to the slot longitudinal axis.

[0029] The upper slot-engaging ridge and the lower slot-engaging ridge may each comprise two opposing ridge flank surfaces that slope outwardly in a width direction opposite the respective upper slot-engaging ridge and lower slot-engaging ridge such that they converge toward one another. The two ridge flank surfaces may transition into one another via a ridge transition portion, optionally defined by a plane. An intersection of the ridge transition portion and the two ridge flank surfaces may form two ridge flank abutment edges.

[0030] In the clamped position of the cutting tool, the rake groove abutment surface of the first rake engagement groove may abut the upper slot engagement ridge. The support groove abutment surface of the first support engagement groove may abut the lower slot engagement ridge.

[0031] In the fastening position of the cutting tool, the rake groove abutment surface of the first rake engagement groove of the cutting insert may abut against the two ridge flank abutment edges of the upper slot engagement ridge, and the support groove abutment surface of the first support engagement groove may abut against the two ridge flank abutment edges of the lower slot engagement ridge.

[0032] Each of the groove interface surfaces may be flat. Each of the support groove abutment surfaces may be flat.

[0033] The rake groove abutment surface of the first rake engagement groove may be disposed closer to the first cutting edge than the second cutting edge.

[0034] In the clamped position of the cutting tool, the rake groove abutment surface and the support groove abutment surface of the second support engagement groove may not abut any surface of the insert receiving slot.

[0035] In the clamped position of the cutting tool, the slot rear stop surface may abut the first insert stop surface. The slot rear concave surface may be spaced apart from the first insert stop surface.

[0036] For a better understanding of the present application, and to show how the same may be carried out in practice, reference is now made to the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0037] [Figure 1] FIG. [Diagram 2] 2 is a partial perspective view of the cutting tool shown in FIG. 1 showing a clamping portion having an insert-receiving slot and a cutting insert resiliently retained in the insert-receiving slot; FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is an exploded partial perspective view of the cutting tool shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the cutting insert shown in FIG. 2. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is an end view of the cutting insert shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a first side view of the cutting insert shown in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a second side view of the cutting insert shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 8] 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII shown in FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a side view of the clamp portion shown in FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a front view of the clamp portion shown in FIG. [Figure 11] 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI shown in FIG. [Figure 12] 3 is a side view of the clamping portion and cutting insert shown in FIG. 2 when the cutting tool is in a clamped position. FIG. [Figure 13] 13 is a cross-sectional view of the cutting tool taken along line XIII-XIII shown in FIG. 12. [Figure 14] 14 is a cross-sectional view of the cutting tool taken along line XIV-XIV shown in FIG. 10 when the cutting tool is in a fastened position.

[0038] It should be noted that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements illustrated in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity, or multiple physical components may be included in a single functional block or element. Where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0039] In the following description, various aspects of the subject matter of the present application are described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in sufficient detail to provide a thorough understanding of the subject matter of the present application. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the subject matter of the present application may be practiced without the specific configurations and details presented herein.

[0040] Attention is first directed to FIG. 1, which illustrates a cutting tool 20 for chip removal according to an embodiment of the subject matter of the present application. The cutting tool 20 has one (or more) cutting inserts 22, which can typically be made from cemented carbide. The cutting tool 20 also has an insert holder 24, which can typically be made from steel. The insert holder 24 has one (or more) insert receiving slots 26 in which the cutting inserts 22 are resiliently held. In this non-limiting example, the cutting tool 20 is a rotary groove milling tool having a disk-shaped insert holder 24 and a number of cutting inserts 22 removably mounted therearound. However, it should be noted that the subject matter of the present application also applies to other types of cutting tools, including, but not limited to, stationary (i.e., non-rotating) turning tools suitable for longitudinal turning (e.g., grooving or parting off) having a single cutting insert 22 removably mounted at the front end of the insert holder 24. The cutting tool 20 is adjustable between a removed position and a fastened position. In the fastened position of the cutting tool 20 , the cutting insert 22 is removably mounted in an insert holder 24 .

[0041] Reference is now made to Figures 4-8, which illustrate a cutting insert 22 in accordance with the subject matter of the present application. The cutting insert 22 includes a unitary, one-piece construction. The cutting insert 22 has an insert longitudinal axis A along which the cutting insert 22 is elongated. The cutting insert 22 includes opposed first and second flank surfaces 28a, 28b. The first and second flank surfaces 28a, 28b intersect the insert longitudinal axis A. The first and second flank surfaces 28a, 28b may be identical to one another.

[0042] The cutting insert 22 includes an insert circumferential surface 30 extending between the first flank surface 28a and the second flank surface 28b. The insert circumferential surface 30 extends about the insert longitudinal axis A.

[0043] 4, 6 and 7, the insert peripheral surface 30 includes opposed first rake surface surface 34a and first support surface surface 36a. The cutting insert 22 has a first insert central axis C1 oriented perpendicular to and intersecting the insert longitudinal axis A and extending through (i.e., intersecting) the first rake surface surface 34a and the first support surface surface 36a. The first rake surface surface 34a and the first support surface surface 36a connect the first flank surface 28a and the second flank surface 28b.

[0044] The insert peripheral surface 30 further includes an opposing second rake face surface 34b and a second support face surface 36b. The cutting insert 22 has a second insert central axis C2 that is oriented perpendicular to and intersects both the first insert central axis C2 and the insert longitudinal axis A. The second insert central axis C2 extends through (i.e., intersects) the second rake face surface 34b and the second support face surface 36b. The second rake face surface 34b and the second support face surface 36b connect the first flank surface 28a and the second flank surface 28b.

[0045] In particular, the cutting insert 22 does not have 180° rotational symmetry about all three of the insert longitudinal axis A, the first insert central axis C1, and the second insert central axis C2. More specifically, the cutting insert 22 does not have rotational symmetry about each of these axes at any angle that is not a multiple of 360°. As such, the cutting insert may be considered to be rotationally asymmetric.

[0046] According to certain embodiments of the present subject matter, the second rake face surface 34b and the second support face surface 36b may extend between the first rake face surface 34a and the first support face surface 36a. The first rake face surface 34a and the second rake face surface 34b may be identical to one another. The first support face surface 36a and the second support face surface 36b may be identical to one another. The insert longitudinal axis A and the first central axis C1 and the second central axis C2 may all be mutually perpendicular to one another.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 6, the cutting insert 22 has a cutting insert length L measured in a direction along the insert longitudinal axis A (i.e., between the first flank surface 28a and the second flank surface 28b). The cutting insert 22 has four cutting insert widths W defined by the maximum dimensions of the first rake surface 34a and the first support surface surface 36a and the second rake surface surface 34b and the second support surface surface 36b, respectively, when measured perpendicular to the insert longitudinal axis A in FIGS. 6 and 7. The four cutting insert widths W may be substantially the same. Thus, the cutting insert 22 may have a basic shape of a rectangular parallelepiped.

[0048] The cutting insert 22 includes a first cutting portion 42a and a second cutting portion 42b. The first cutting portion 42a and the second cutting portion 42b are disposed axially on opposite sides of the cutting insert 22. The first cutting portion 42a and the second cutting portion 42b include a first cutting edge 44a and a second cutting edge 44b, respectively. The first cutting edge 44a and the second cutting edge 44b are formed at the intersection of the first flank surface 28a and the second flank surface 28b with the first rake surface 34a and the second rake surface 34b, respectively. The first cutting edge 44a and the second cutting edge 44b are designed for metal cutting operations, particularly groove metal cutting operations. It should be noted that the first cutting portion 42a and the second cutting portion 42b (as well as the first cutting edge 44a and the second cutting edge 44b) are oriented at an angle of 90° to each other about the insert longitudinal axis A. Thus, the cutting insert 22 is rotationally asymmetric about the insert longitudinal axis A, the first insert central axis C1, and the first insert central axis C2. The first rake surface 34a and the second rake surface 34b include first rake surfaces 46a and second rake surfaces 46b adjacent the first cutting edge 44a and the second cutting edge 44b, respectively. The purpose and shape of the first rake surface 46a and the second rake surface 46b are known in the art and are not part of this invention.

[0049] 6 and 7, the "invisible" engagement grooves are shown in dashed lines. The cutting insert 22 includes a pair of rake and support engagement grooves 48a, 50a, 48b, 50b. The rake and support engagement grooves 48a, 50a, 48b, 50b are designed to be securely mounted in the insert receiving slot 26 as described later in this description. One of the pair is associated with each respective one of the cutting portions 42a, 42b. Specifically, the cutting insert 22 includes a first rake engagement groove 48a and a first support engagement groove 50a recessed in the first rake face surface 34a and the first support face surface 36a, respectively. The first rake engagement groove 48A and the first support engagement groove 50a are associated with the first cutting edge 44a. Similarly, the cutting insert 22 includes a second rake engagement groove 48b and a second support engagement groove 50b recessed in the second rake surface 34b and the second support surface 36b, respectively. The second rake engagement groove 48b and the second support engagement groove 50b are associated with the second cutting edge 44b. The first rake engagement groove 48b and the second support engagement groove 50a open at least to the second flank surface 28b. The second rake engagement groove 48b and the second support engagement groove 50b open at least to the first flank surface 28a. According to certain embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, the first rake engagement groove 48a and the second rake engagement groove 48b may be spaced apart from the first flank surface 28a and the second flank surface 28b, respectively, along the insert longitudinal axis (A). In particular, the first rake engagement groove 48a and the second rake engagement groove 48b may be spaced apart from the first rake face 46a and the second rake face 46b, respectively. The first support engagement groove 50a and the second support engagement groove 50b may open into the first clearance face 28a and the second clearance face 28b, respectively.

[0050] 7, the first rake engagement groove 48a and the second rake engagement groove 48b may overlap in a direction along the insert longitudinal axis A. Thus, the cutting insert 22 can have a reduced cutting insert length L compared to the cutting insert shown in U.S. Pat. No. 10,857,603 in which the two protruding insert ridges are offset in the longitudinal direction. The rake engagement grooves 48a, 48b may have a rake groove length GL (as measured along the insert longitudinal axis A). The rake groove length GL may be greater than half of the cutting insert length L.

[0051] 5-7, the first rake engagement groove 48a has a first groove depth GD1. According to certain embodiments of the present subject matter, the first groove depth GD1 may increase in a direction away from the first clearance surface 28a.

[0052] The first rake engagement groove 48a has a first groove width GW1. The first groove width GW1 may increase in a direction away from the first clearance surface 28a.

[0053] The second groove 48b has a second groove depth GD2. According to certain embodiments of the present subject matter, the second groove depth GD2 may increase in a direction away from the second clearance surface 28b.

[0054] The second rake engagement groove 48b has a second groove width GW2. The second groove width GW2 may increase in a direction away from the second clearance surface 28b.

[0055] 7, according to one embodiment of the subject matter of the present application, the first rake engagement groove 48a and the second rake engagement groove 48b may each include two opposing rake flank surfaces 52. The two rake flank surfaces 52 are inclined inwardly in opposite width directions of the respective rake engagement grooves 48a, 48b such that they converge toward one another. The two rake flank surfaces 52 may transition into one another via a rake transition portion 54. The rake transition portion 54 is defined by a line or edge (and thus the two rake flank surfaces 52 intersect with one another). In this non-limiting example shown in the drawing, the rake transition portion 54 is defined by a line.

[0056] 6, similarly, the first support engagement groove 50a and the second support engagement groove 50b may each include two opposing support groove flank surfaces 56. The two support groove flank surfaces 56 are inclined inwardly in opposite width directions of the respective support engagement grooves 50a, 50b such that they converge toward one another. The two support groove flank surfaces 56 may transition into one another via a support groove transition portion 58. The support groove transition portion 58 may be defined by a line or an edge (and thus the two support groove flank surfaces 56 intersect each other). In this non-limiting example shown in the drawing, the support groove transition portion 58 is defined by a line.

[0057] According to certain embodiments of the present subject matter, the rake groove transition portion 54 and the support groove transition portion 58 of the first rake engagement groove 48a and the first support engagement groove 50a may be intersected by a first insert bisection plane B1 that includes the insert longitudinal axis A and the first insert centerline axis C1. In configurations in which the rake groove transition portion 54 and the support groove transition portion 58 are defined by a line or edge, the rake groove transition portion 54 and the support groove transition portion 58 of the first rake engagement groove 48a and the support engagement groove 50a may be contained within the first insert bisection plane B1.

[0058] The second rake groove transition portion 54 and the support groove transition portion 58 of the second rake engagement groove 48b and the second support engagement groove 50b may be intersected by a second insert bisection plane B2 that includes the insert longitudinal axis A and the second insert centerline axis C2. In configurations having the rake and support groove transition portions 54, 58 defined by lines or edges, the second rake engagement groove 48b and the second support engagement groove 50b may each be contained within the second insert bisection plane B2. The first bisection plane B1 and the second bisection plane B2 are perpendicular to each other and intersect each other along the insert longitudinal axis A.

[0059] According to certain embodiments of the present subject matter, each rake flute flank surface 52 may include a respective rake flute abutment surface 60 for abutting a corresponding surface in the insert receiving slot 26. Each rake flute abutment surface 60 may be planar. In a cross-sectional view (i.e., FIG. 8 ) taken along a plane perpendicular to the insert longitudinal axis A and intersecting the rake flute abutment surface 60, the rake flute abutment surface 60 may define an external rake flute flank angle α. The rake flute flank angle α may be obtuse. The rake flute abutment surface 60 of the first rake engagement groove 48a may exhibit mirror symmetry about the first insert bisection plane B1. The rake flute abutment surface 60 of the second rake engagement groove 48b may exhibit mirror symmetry about the second insert bisection plane B2. Similarly, each support groove flank surface 56 may include a respective support groove abutment surface 62 for abutting a corresponding surface in the insert receiving slot 26. Each support groove abutment surface 62 may be planar. In a cross-sectional view (i.e., FIG. 8) taken along a plane perpendicular to the insert longitudinal axis A and intersecting the support groove abutment surface 62, the support groove abutment surface 62 may define an external support groove flank angle β. The support groove flank angle β may be obtuse. The support groove abutment surface 60 of the first support engagement groove 50a may exhibit mirror symmetry about the first insert bisecting plane B1. The support groove abutment surface 62 of the second support engagement groove 50b may exhibit mirror symmetry about the second insert bisecting plane B2. It should be understood that the terms "interior angle" and "exterior angle" used throughout this description and the claims refer to the angle between two planar components of a pair of surfaces, measured respectively on the inside and outside of the member on which the two surface components are formed.

[0060] As can be seen from Figures 5 and 6, the first support engagement groove 50a and the second support engagement groove 50b may be mirror symmetrical about the respective first bisecting plane B1 and second bisecting plane B2 at least half of their lengths. This facilitates uniform and stable fixing of the cutting insert 22 on the base jaw 80. In an embodiment, the first support engagement groove 50a and the second support engagement groove 50b may straddle the respective first bisecting plane B1 and second bisecting plane B2 over their entire length. In an embodiment, the first support engagement groove 50a and the second support engagement groove 50b may be mirror symmetrical about the respective first bisecting plane B1 and second bisecting plane B2 over their entire length.

[0061] 6 and 7, the first rake groove 48a and the first support groove 50a extend along the first rake groove longitudinal axis RG1 and the first support groove longitudinal axis SG1, respectively. More specifically, according to certain embodiments of the subject matter of the present application, each of the first rake groove longitudinal axis RG1 and the first support groove longitudinal axis SG1 may be located on a corresponding one of the first rake groove transition portion 54 and the first support groove transition portion 58 belonging to the respective first rake groove 48a and first support groove 50a. Similarly, the second rake groove 48b and the second support groove 50b extend along the second rake groove longitudinal axis RG2 and the second support groove longitudinal axis SG2, respectively. More specifically, according to one embodiment of the subject matter of the present application, each of the second scoop groove longitudinal axis RG2 and the support groove longitudinal axis SG2 may be located on a corresponding one of the scoop groove transition portion 54 and the support groove transition portion 58 belonging to the respective second scoop engagement groove 48b and second support engagement groove 50b.

[0062] According to certain embodiments of the present subject matter, one of the first rake flute longitudinal axis RG1 and the first support groove longitudinal axis SG1 may be parallel to the insert longitudinal axis A. Preferably, the first support groove longitudinal axis SG1 may be parallel to the insert longitudinal axis A. Similarly, one of the second rake flute longitudinal axis RG2 and the second support groove longitudinal axis SG2 may be parallel to the insert longitudinal axis A. Preferably, the second support groove longitudinal axis SG2 may be parallel to the insert longitudinal axis A.

[0063] The first rake flute longitudinal axis RG1 and the first support groove longitudinal axis SG1 converge toward each other in a direction from the first flank surface 28a toward the second flank surface 28b (i.e., away from the first cutting portion 42a) to define an acute first flute wedge angle θ1. Similarly, the second rake flute longitudinal axis RG2 and the second support groove longitudinal axis SG2 converge toward each other in a direction from the second flank surface 28b toward the first flank surface 28a (i.e., away from the second cutting portion 42b) to define an acute second flute wedge angle θ2.

[0064] Returning to FIG. 5, according to certain embodiments of the present subject matter, the first flank surface 28a may include a first insert stop surface 64a. The second flank surface 28b may include a second insert stop surface 64b. The first insert stop surface 64a and the second insert stop surface 64b are designed to position the cutting insert 22 at a predetermined longitudinal position within the insert receiving slot 26 and provide longitudinal resistance to cutting forces. As can be seen in FIGS. 6 and 7, the first insert stop surface 64a and the second insert stop surface 64b may be planar and oriented perpendicular to the insert longitudinal axis A.

[0065] According to an embodiment of the subject matter of the present application, as can be seen in Figures 6 and 7, the first flank surface 28a may include a first flank 66a extending from the first cutting edge 44a toward the first insert stop surface 64a. That is, the first flank surface 66a is disposed between the first cutting edge 44a and the first insert stop surface 64a. The first flank 66a may be oriented in a different direction than the first insert stop surface 64a, and thus the two surfaces 64a, 66a are not coplanar and are angled relative to each other. The first flank 66a may be inclined with respect to the insert longitudinal axis A such that the cutting insert 22 is a positive cutting insert at the first cutting portion 42a. That is, in a first side view of the cutting insert 22 (along the second insert central axis C2, see Figure 6), the first flank 66a may be inclined downward and inward from the first cutting edge 44a. The first flank 66a may extend to (i.e., intersect) the first insert stop surface 64a. With reference to Figure 7, the first flank 66a may be farther from the second flank surface 28b in a direction along the insert longitudinal axis A than the first insert stop surface 64a.

[0066] Similarly, according to an embodiment of the subject matter of the present application, the second flank surface 28b may include a second flank 66b extending from the second cutting edge 44b toward the second insert stop surface 64b. That is, the second flank 66b is disposed between the second cutting edge 44b and the second insert stop surface 64b. The second flank 66b may be oriented in a different direction than the second insert stop surface 64b, and thus the two surfaces 64b, 66b are not coplanar and are angled relative to each other. The second flank 66b may be inclined with respect to the insert longitudinal axis A such that the cutting insert 22 is a positive cutting insert at the second cutting portion 42b. That is, in a second side view of the cutting insert 22 (along the first insert central axis C1, see FIG. 7), the second flank 66b may be inclined downward and inward from the second cutting edge 44b. The second flank surface 66b may extend to (i.e., intersect) the second insert stop surface 64b. The second flank surface 66b may be farther from the first flank surface 28a in a direction along the insert longitudinal axis A than the second insert stop surface 64b.

[0067] Returning to Figure 1, which illustrates an insert holder 24 in accordance with the present application, with reference to Figures 2 and 3, the insert holder 24 includes a clamp portion 68. The clamp portion 68 includes opposed first and second clamp portion sides 70a, 70b and a clamp portion front end face 72 extending between the first and second clamp portion sides 70a, 70b.

[0068] The clamp portion 68 includes an upper clamp jaw 78 and a lower base jaw 80 opposite the upper clamp jaw 78. The upper clamp jaw 78 is resiliently displaceable relative to the lower base jaw 80.

[0069] 9, the clamping portion 68 includes an insert receiving slot 26. The insert receiving slot 26 is designed to receive and resiliently engage the cutting insert 22. The insert receiving slot 26 extends longitudinally in a direction defining a slot longitudinal axis C. The insert receiving slot 26 opens into a clamping portion front end face 72 to form a front slot opening 74. The insert receiving slot 26 also opens into a first clamping portion side surface 70a and a second clamping portion side surface 70b.

[0070] The insert receiving slot 26 is formed from the gap between the upper clamping jaw 78 and the lower base jaw 80. The insert receiving slot 26 is bounded by a peripheral slot wall surface 76. The peripheral slot wall surface 76 extends between the first clamping portion side surface 70a and the second clamping portion side surface 70b. The peripheral slot wall surface 76 includes a clamping jaw surface 82 disposed on the upper clamping jaw 78. The peripheral slot wall surface 76 includes a base jaw lower surface 84 disposed on the lower base jaw 80. The base jaw lower surface 84 faces the clamping jaw surface 82.

[0071] The insert receiving slot 26 has a slot vertical axis V that is oriented perpendicular to and intersects the slot longitudinal axis C. The slot vertical axis V extends through (i.e., intersects) the clamp jaw face 82 and the base jaw lower surface 84. According to certain embodiments of the present subject matter, the insert receiving slot 26 may exhibit mirror symmetry about a slot bisection plane B that includes the slot longitudinal axis C and the slot vertical axis V.

[0072] 10 and 11, the slot peripheral wall surface 76 includes a rear slot surface 86 that extends between the clamp jaw surface 82 and the base jaw lower surface 84. Generally speaking, the rear slot surface 86 faces the front slot opening 74. According to certain embodiments of the present subject matter, the rear slot surface 86 may include a rear slot stop surface 88 and a rear slot concave surface 90 that are oriented in different directions from one another, and thus the two surfaces 88, 90 are not coplanar and are angled with respect to one another.

[0073] The slot rear stop surface 88 may be closer to the first clamping portion side 70a than the slot rear concave surface 90. The slot rear stop surface 88 may intersect the first clamping portion side 70a. The slot rear stop surface 88 may be planar and oriented perpendicular to the slot longitudinal axis C.

[0074] The slot rear concave surface 90 may be closer to the second clamp portion side 70b than the slot rear stop surface 88. The slot rear concave surface 90 may intersect the second clamp portion side 70b.

[0075] The slot rear stop surface 88 and the slot rear concave surface 90 may intersect each other. The slot rear concave surface 90 may overlap the slot rear stop surface 88 in a direction along the slot vertical axis V. The slot rear concave surface 90 may be farther from the front slot opening 74 than the slot rear stop surface 88 in a direction along the slot longitudinal axis C. This allows the slot rear stop surface 88 to abut the second insert stop surface 64b (at the fastening position of the cutting tool 20) even in a positive shape in the second cutting portion 42b. The slot rear concave surface 90 may be flat. Referring to FIG. 11, the slot rear concave surface 90 may be inclined inward (i.e., away from the front slot opening 74) in a direction from the first clamping portion side surface 70a toward the second clamping portion side surface 70b.

[0076] The clamp portion 82 includes an upper slot-engaging ridge 92a and a lower slot-engaging ridge 92b that protrude from the clamp jaw face 82 and the base jaw lower face 84, respectively. The upper slot-engaging ridge 92a and the lower slot-engaging ridge 92b are designed to engage with a respective one of the pair of rake and support engagement grooves 48a, 50a, 48b, 50b. According to certain embodiments of the present subject matter, the upper slot-engaging ridge 92a and the lower slot-engaging ridge 92b may extend to the clamp portion front end face 72.

[0077] According to certain embodiments of the present subject matter, the upper slot-engaging ridge 92a and the lower slot-engaging ridge 92b may each include two opposing ridge flank surfaces 94. The two ridge flank surfaces 94 are inclined outwardly in opposite width directions of the respective upper slot-engaging ridge 92a and lower slot-engaging ridge 92b such that they converge toward one another. The two ridge flank surfaces 94 may transition into one another via a ridge transition portion 96. In this non-limiting example shown in the drawings, the ridge transition portion 96 is defined by a plane (and thus the two ridge flank surfaces 94 are spaced apart from one another). The intersection of the ridge transition portion 96 with the two ridge flank surfaces 94 may form two ridge flank abutment edges 98.

[0078] The upper and lower slot-engaging ridges 92a and 92b extend along upper and lower ridge longitudinal axes RU and RL, respectively. More specifically, according to certain embodiments of the present subject matter, each of the upper and lower ridge longitudinal axes RU and RL may be located on a corresponding ridge transition portion 96 belonging to the respective upper and lower slot-engaging ridges 92a and 92b.

[0079] According to certain embodiments of the present subject matter, the lower ridge longitudinal axis RL may be parallel to the slot longitudinal axis C.

[0080] The upper ridge longitudinal axis RU and the lower ridge longitudinal axis RL converge toward each other in a direction from the clamp portion front end face 72 toward the slot rear face 86 (i.e., away from the front slot opening 74) to define an acute ridge wedge angle δ.

[0081] The seating and support of the cutting insert 22 in the insert receiving slot 26 will be described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIGS. 12-14. In the fastened position of the cutting tool 20, the cutting insert 22 is removably attached to the insert holder 24 in a first indexable position. The cutting insert 22 is disposed in the insert receiving slot 26 and is resiliently clamped therein by the upper clamp jaw 78. The first cutting edge 44a is operable and the second cutting edge 44b is inoperable. According to an embodiment of the subject matter of the present application, in the fastened position of the cutting tool 20, the rake groove abutment surface 60 of the first rake groove engagement groove 48a may abut the upper slot engagement ridge 92a. Specifically, the rake groove abutment surface 60 of the first rake engagement groove 48a may abut the two ridge flank abutment edges 98 of the upper slot engagement ridge 92a. As shown in FIG. 14 , which shows a cross-sectional view of the cutting tool 20 along a plane parallel to the slot bisection plane B and intersecting one of the ridge flank abutment edges 98, the rake groove abutment surface 60 of the first rake engagement groove 48a may be located closer to the first cutting edge 44a than the second cutting edge 44b. Such a configuration improves the fixation of the cutting insert 22 in the insert receiving slot 26. The support groove abutment surface 62 of the first support engagement groove 50a may abut the lower slot engagement ridge 92b. Specifically, the support groove abutment surface 62 of the first support engagement groove 50a may abut the lower slot engagement ridge 92b. The rake groove abutment surface 60 and the support groove abutment surface 62 of the second support engagement groove 50b do not abut any surface of the insert receiving slot 26 (e.g., the slot peripheral wall surface 76). The slot rear stop surface 88 may abut the first insert stop surface 64a. The slot rear concave surface 90 may be spaced apart from the first insert stop surface 64a. The second insert stop surface 64b may not abut any surface of the insert receiving slot 26.

[0082] The cutting insert 22 has a second indexable position, in which the cutting insert 22 is rotated 90 degrees about the insert longitudinal axis A and then further rotated 180 degrees about the first insert central axis C1. In such a configuration, in the fastening position of the cutting tool 20, the second cutting edge 44b is operable and the first cutting edge 44a is inoperative. The rake groove abutment surface 60 of the second rake engagement groove 48b may abut the upper slot engagement ridge 92a. The support groove abutment surface 62 of the second support engagement groove 50b may abut the lower slot engagement ridge 92b. The rake groove abutment surface 60 and the support groove abutment surface 62 of the first support engagement groove 50a may not abut any surface of the insert receiving slot 26. The slot rear stop surface 88 may abut the second insert stop surface 64b. The slot rear concave surface 90 may be spaced apart from the second insert stop surface 64b. The first insert stop surface 64a may not abut any surface of the insert receiving slot 26.

[0083] Although the subject matter of the present application has been described in some detail, it should be understood that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as claimed below.

Claims

1. A double-sided cutting insert (22), said cutting insert (22) comprising: an insert peripheral surface (30) extending around the insert longitudinal axis (A) between said first flank surface (28a) and said second flank surface (28b), said insert peripheral surface (30) comprising opposite first rake surface (34a) and first support surface (36a) and opposite second rake surface (34b) and second support surface (36b), all connecting said first flank surface (28a) and said second flank surface (28b); a first insert central axis (C1) oriented perpendicular to the insert longitudinal axis (A) and extending through the first rake face surface (34a) and the first support face surface (36a); a second insert central axis (C2) oriented perpendicular to both the first insert central axis (C1) and the insert longitudinal axis (A) and extending through the second rake face surface (34b) and the second support face surface (36b); a first cutting edge (44a) and a second cutting edge (44b) formed on an intersection line between the first flank surface (28a) and the second flank surface (28b) and the first rake face surface (34a) and the second rake face surface (34b), respectively; a first rake engagement groove (48a) and a first support engagement groove (50a) recessed in the first rake face surface (34a) and the first support face surface (34b), respectively, and opening at least into the second flank surface (28a); a second rake engagement groove (48b) and a second support engagement groove (50b) recessed in the second rake face surface (34b) and the second support face surface (36b), respectively, and opening into at least the first flank surface (28b); the first rake engagement groove (48 a) and the first support engagement groove (50 a) extend along a first rake flute longitudinal axis (RG1) and a first support groove longitudinal axis (SG2), respectively, which converge toward each other in a direction from the first flank surface (28 a) toward the second flank surface (28 b) to define an acute first flute wedge angle (θ1); The cutting insert (22) includes a second rake engagement groove (48b) and a second support engagement groove (50b), which extend along a second rake engagement groove longitudinal axis (RG2) and a second support groove longitudinal axis (SG2), respectively, and converge toward each other in a direction from the second flank surface (28b) toward the first flank surface (28a) to define an acute second groove wedge angle (θ2).

2. the first bearing surface (36a) and the second bearing surface (36b) are identical to one another; the first rake face surface (34a) and the second rake face surface (34b) are identical to one another; The cutting insert (22) according to claim 1, wherein the first flank surface (28a) and the second flank surface (28b) are identical to each other.

3. the first flank surface (28a) comprises a first insert stop surface (64a) and a first flank surface (66a) oriented in different directions, the first flank surface (66a) extending from the first cutting edge (44a) towards the first insert stop surface (64a); 2. The cutting insert (22) according to claim 1, wherein the second flank surface (28b) comprises a second insert stop surface (64b) and a second flank surface (66b) oriented in different directions from each other, the second flank surface (66b) extending from the second cutting edge (44b) towards the second insert stop surface (64b).

4. The cutting insert (22) according to claim 1, wherein the first rake engagement groove (48a) and the second rake engagement groove (48b) overlap in a direction along the insert longitudinal axis (A).

5. 2. The cutting insert (22) of claim 1, wherein the first flank surface (66a) and the second flank surface (66b) are inclined relative to the insert longitudinal axis (A) such that the cutting insert (22) is a double-sided positive cutting insert.

6. One of the first rake flute longitudinal axis (RG1) and the first support groove longitudinal axis (SG1) is parallel to the insert longitudinal axis (A); The cutting insert (22) according to claim 1, wherein one of the second rake flute longitudinal axis (RG2) and the second support groove longitudinal axis (SG2) is parallel to the insert longitudinal axis (A).

7. The first support groove longitudinal axis (SG1) is parallel to the insert longitudinal axis (A), The cutting insert (22) according to claim 6, wherein the second support groove longitudinal axis (SG2) is parallel to the insert longitudinal axis (A).

8. the first rake engagement groove (48a) has a first rake groove depth (GD1) that increases in a direction away from the first flank surface (28a); The cutting insert (22) according to claim 1, wherein the second rake engagement groove (48b) has a second rake depth (GD2) that increases in a direction away from the second flank surface (28b).

9. the first rake engagement groove (48a) has a first rake groove width (GW1) that increases in a direction away from the first flank surface (28a); The cutting insert (22) according to claim 1, wherein the second rake engagement groove (48b) has a second rake width (GW2) that increases in a direction away from the second flank surface (28b).

10. the first rake engagement groove (48a) and the second rake engagement groove (48b) are spaced apart from the first flank surface (28a) and the second flank surface (28b) along the insert longitudinal axis (A); The cutting insert (22) according to claim 1, wherein the first support engagement groove (50a) and the second support engagement groove (50b) open to the first flank surface (28a) and the second flank surface (28b), respectively.

11. the first rake engagement groove (48a) and the second rake engagement groove (48b) each include two opposite rake engagement groove flank surfaces (52) that slope inwardly in opposite width directions of the respective rake engagement grooves (48a, 48b) so as to converge toward each other; 2. The cutting insert (22) according to claim 1, wherein the first support engagement groove (50a) and the second support engagement groove (50b) each include two opposite support groove flank surfaces (56) that slope inward in opposite width directions of the respective support engagement grooves (50a, 50b) so as to converge toward each other.

12. The cutting insert (22) of claim 1, wherein the cutting insert (22) does not have a through hole.

13. An insert holder (24) comprising a clamping portion (68), said clamping portion (68) comprising: Opposite first and second clamp portion sides (70a, 70b), and a clamp portion front end surface (72) extending between the first and second clamp portion sides (70a, 70b); a lower base jaw (80) and an opposing upper clamping jaw (78) resiliently displaceable relative to said lower base jaw (80); an insert receiving slot (26) longitudinally elongated in a direction defining a slot longitudinal axis (C) and opening into the clamp portion front end face (72) to form a front slot opening (74), the insert receiving slot (26) being formed from a gap between the lower base jaw (80) and the upper clamp jaw (78), and the insert receiving slot (26) comprising: The slot is bounded by a peripheral wall surface (76), and the peripheral wall surface (76) is an insert receiving slot (26) comprising a clamp jaw surface (82), a base jaw lower surface (84), and a slot rear surface (86) extending between the clamp jaw surface (82) and the base jaw lower surface (84), wherein the clamp jaw surface (82) is formed on the upper clamp jaw (78) and the base jaw lower surface (84) is formed on the lower base jaw (80); an upper slot-engaging ridge (92a) and a lower slot-engaging ridge (82b) projecting from the clamp jaw surface (82) and the base jaw lower surface (84), respectively; the upper slot-engaging ridge (92a) and the lower slot-engaging ridge (92b) extend along upper ridge longitudinal axes (RU) and lower ridge longitudinal axes (RL), respectively, that converge toward each other in a direction from the clamp portion front end face (72) toward the slot rear face (86) to define an acute ridge wedge angle (δ); the insert receiving slot (26) has a slot vertical axis (V) oriented perpendicular to and intersecting the slot longitudinal axis (C), the slot vertical axis (V) extending through the clamp jaw face (82) and the base jaw lower face (84); the slot rear surface (86) has a slot rear stop surface (88) and a slot rear concave surface (90) oriented in different directions from each other, the slot rear stop surface (88) being closer to the first clamp portion side surface (70a) than the slot rear concave surface (90), and the slot rear concave surface (90) being closer to the second clamp portion side surface (70b) than the slot rear stop surface (88); the slot rear concave surface (90) overlaps the slot rear stopper surface (88) in the direction along the slot vertical axis (V) and is farther from the front slot opening (74) than the slot rear stopper surface (88) in the direction along the slot longitudinal axis (C).

14. 14. The insert holder (24) of claim 13, wherein the upper slot-engaging ridge (92a) and the lower slot-engaging ridge (92b) extend to the clamp portion front end face (72).

15. 14. The insert holder (24) of claim 13, wherein the lower ridge longitudinal axis (RL) is parallel to the slot longitudinal axis (C).

16. the upper slot-engaging ridge (92 a) and the lower slot-engaging ridge (92 b) each include two opposing ridge flanks (94) that slope outwardly in opposite width directions of the respective upper slot-engaging ridge (92 a) and lower slot-engaging ridge (92 b) so as to converge toward each other; the two ridge flank surfaces (94) transition into one another via a ridge transition portion (96), the ridge transition portion (96) being defined by a plane; 14. The insert holder (24) of claim 13, wherein the intersection of the ridge transition portion (96) and the two ridge flank surfaces (94) forms two ridge flank abutment edges (98).

17. A cutting tool (20), comprising: A cutting insert (22) according to claim 1; An insert holder (24) comprising a clamping portion (68), said clamping portion (68) comprising: Opposite first and second clamp portion sides (70a, 70b), and a clamp portion front end surface (72) extending between the first and second clamp portion sides (70a, 70b); a lower base jaw (80) and an opposing upper clamping jaw (78) resiliently displaceable relative to said lower base jaw (80); an insert receiving slot (26) longitudinally elongated in a direction defining a slot longitudinal axis (C) and opening into the clamp portion front end face (72) to form a front slot opening (74), the insert receiving slot (26) being formed from a gap between the lower base jaw (80) and the upper clamp jaw (78), and the insert receiving slot (26) comprising: The slot is bounded by a peripheral wall surface (76), and the peripheral wall surface (76) is an insert receiving slot (26) comprising a clamp jaw surface (82), a base jaw lower surface (84), and a slot rear surface (86) extending between the clamp jaw surface (82) and the base jaw lower surface (84), wherein the clamp jaw surface (82) is formed on the upper clamp jaw (78) and the base jaw lower surface (84) is formed on the lower base jaw (80); an upper slot-engaging ridge (92a) and a lower slot-engaging ridge (92b) projecting from the clamp jaw surface (82) and the base jaw lower surface (84), respectively; the upper slot-engaging ridge (92a) and the lower slot-engaging ridge (92b) extend along upper ridge longitudinal axes (RU) and lower ridge longitudinal axes (RL), respectively, that converge toward one another in a direction from the clamp portion front end face (72) toward the slot rear face (86) to define an acute ridge wedge angle (δ); The cutting tool (20) is adjustable between a release position and a fastening position, and in the fastening position of the cutting tool (20): The cutting insert (22) is removably attached to the insert holder (24); The cutting tool (20) has a cutting insert (22) disposed within the insert receiving slot (26) and resiliently clamped within the insert receiving slot (26) by the upper clamping jaw (78).

18. the first rake engagement groove (48a) and the second rake engagement groove (48b) of the cutting insert each include two opposite rake flank surfaces (52) that slope inwardly in opposite width directions of the respective rake engagement grooves (48a, 48b) so as to converge toward each other; the first support engagement groove (50a) and the second support engagement groove (50b) each include two opposite support groove flank surfaces (56) that slope inward in opposite width directions of the respective support engagement grooves (50a, 50b) so as to converge toward each other; Each flute flank surface (52) has a respective flute abutment surface (60); Each support groove flank surface (56) has a respective support groove abutment surface (62); In the fastened position of the cutting tool (20), the rake groove abutment surface (60) of the first rake engagement groove (48a) abuts against the upper slot engagement ridge (92a); 18. The cutting tool (20) of claim 17, wherein the support groove abutment surface (62) of the first support engagement groove (50a) abuts the lower slot engagement ridge (92b).

19. the upper slot-engaging ridge (92a) and the lower slot-engaging ridge (92b) of the insert holder each include two opposing ridge flanks (94) that slope outwardly in opposite width directions of the respective upper slot-engaging ridge (92a) and lower slot-engaging ridge (92b) so as to converge toward each other; the two ridge flank surfaces (94) transition into one another via a ridge transition portion (96), the ridge transition portion (96) being defined by a plane; the intersection of the ridge transition portion (96) and the two ridge flank surfaces (94) forms two ridge flank abutment edges (98); In the fastened position of the cutting tool (20), the rake groove abutment surface (60) of the cutting insert of the first rake engagement groove (48a) abuts the two ridge flank abutment edges (98) of the upper slot engagement ridge (92a); 20. The cutting tool (20) of claim 18, wherein the support groove abutment surface (62) of the first support engagement groove (50a) abuts against the two ridge flank abutment edges (98) of the lower slot engagement ridge (92b).

20. 20. The cutting tool (20) of claim 18, wherein the rake groove abutment surface (60) of the first rake engagement groove (48a) is positioned closer to the first cutting edge (44a) than to the second cutting edge (44b).

Images