Tungsten carbide insert tooling has been used in metalworking for many years. Typical insert tooling consists of a shaft or block with a pocket for the tungsten carbide insert (cutter) which is mechanically held in the pocket either by a clamp or with a socket head or (more recently) a Torx screw. Rather than removing the tool for sharpening the insert may be turned or replaced.
That this technology should be applied to woodturning tools is logical. Carbide-insert woodturning tools consist of a handle with a shaft that ends in a pocket, into which an insert can be attached with the aforementioned socket head/Torx screw. Most companies offer three different tools with pockets shaped for round, square and diamond shaped inserts. Typical inserts are flat-topped with a slope in the sides that gives the tool clearance
