What Are End Mill Cutters?
End mill cutters are a form of carbide cutting tools which are primarily used in industrial milling. What differentiates end mill cutters from regular drill bits is that they are capable of cutting in several directions, as opposed to just the axial direction. They also differ in their shape, how they are manufactured and the applications they are used in. Let's take a closer look at what end mill cutters are and what they are capable of.
Types of End Mill Cutters
There are a large variety of end mill cutters on the market today. From a broader category perspective, there are some that are center cutting and some that are not. These types of carbide cutting tools are further categorized by such features as the number of flutes, the material they are made from, their helix angle and what they are coated with.
End mill cutters are also categorized by their geometry and application. In other words, the appropriate tool for the job would depend on the type of material being milled. For instance, if you were milling a softer material like aluminum, a cutter with deeper flutes and a sharp edge would be the best choice. Stronger materials, like stainless steel, on the other hand, would call for flutes that are shallower and feature a squared-off edge. When in a doubt, carbide cutting tools manufacturers should be able to point to the right direction.
How are end mill cutters used?
End mill cutters are primarily used on milling or turning machines to produce precision holes and shapes. The successful application of end milling ultimately hinges on how well the tool is supported by the holder. End mills can be selected and utilized for the following basic applications:
- Face Milling - Small areas of relatively shallow depth
- Keyway Production - Two separate end mills
- Woodruff Keyways - Single cutter, straight plunge
- Specialty Cutting - Milling of "T" shaped slots, tapered surfaces and dovetail production
- Finish Profiling - Inside/outside shape
- Cavity Die Work - Plunging and finish-cutting die steel pockets (requires the production of three dimensional shapes)
Types of End Milling Procedures
In addition to the many types of carbide cutting tools and applications, there are also a number of different procedures that are performed using end mill cutters. The basic list is as follows:
- End Milling
- Conventional Milling
- Climb Milling
- Peripheral Milling
- Plunge Cutting
- Ramp Cutting
How to Choose End Mill Cutters
With such a significant number of carbide cutting tools manufacturers in the market, figuring out which one is the right option can be challenging. We strongly recommend choosing someone that not only offers a wide selection of inventoried products at a great price, but also has been established in the industry and is accredited by the Better Business Bureau.
If you'd like to learn more about our extensive line of carbide cutting tools, please click here or contact us directly at 727-546-4655.
4 Advantages of Carbide Cutting Tools
When it comes to end mill cutters, the options are many. One of the most popular choices today, however, is solid carbide cutting tools. If you're not yet familiar, carbide is a form of industrial material that tools are manufactured from. Because the formula used is stiffer than traditional steel, tools made in carbide come with a number of distinct benefits over standard cutting tools. Let's take a look at four of those advantages below.
1. Carbide cutting tools are much sharper
Because carbide stays sharper longer than just plain steel, carbide cutting tools are more efficient than their conventional counterparts. Sharper cutters, cut at a faster rate without binding, which facilitates better production while also reducing the workload on machines. Regular end mill cutters become dull faster, which results in more tool changes and shoddy workmanship. Carbide tools also require less sharpening than steel tools.
2. Carbide cutting tools operate cleaner
Tools that are carbide produce cuts that are cleaner and straighter. They also result in little to no damage. As most carbide cutting tools manufacturers will tell you, cuts that are straight and clean result in joints and bonds that fit better and hold better tolerances. Additionally, with cleaner cuts there are lower risks of kickback, a major cause of workplace accidents.
3. Carbide cutting tools are stronger
Many materials can damage, chip and dull normal steel cutters. I took the sentence out there was here. Carbide cutting tools, on the other hand, are strong enough to cut through almost any material without sustaining flute or tip damage. In fact, carbide tools can even cut through tuff materials like hard steels, stainless steels and other such items without issue, especially if they are coated with TiN, TiCN, or ALTiN Coatings. That means greater efficiency and better ROI for your business.
4. Carbide cutting tools last longer
While the upfront cost of carbide cutting tools is a bit higher than traditional ones, the longevity that comes along with this enhanced design pays for itself. I took this sentence out. This type of end mill cutters much more affordable in the long run. Provided that you adequately maintain the tool, carbide tools can last far longer than any conventional cutter.
To get the most out of your investment and enjoy quality craftsmanship, optimal efficiency and maximum longevity, carbide end mill cutters are the way to go.
Contact us directly at 727-546-4655 Extension 1 for more information.
