The purpose of an end mill depends on the material being cut. Some are designed for certain metals, such as steel, while others are made for non-ferrous materials. Choosing the correct end mill for the right job requires careful consideration. Here are some factors to consider: The material being cut and the type of tooling required. Metals like steel and non-ferrous materials require different tools. Choosing the correct end mill for your project will help you get the job done correctly and ensure long tool life.
Helps break material into smaller pieces while cutting
End mills are specialized tools that help break down materials while cutting. End mills come in a variety of sizes and shapes. The type of end mill you choose will depend on what you are cutting. Some types of end mills have multiple flutes, which are great for cutting plastic or soft metals.
These tools can also be coated with additional materials, which can help them work even better. End mills also come in a variety of designs, sizes, and flute arrangements, which can help to improve the productivity of your cutting process. You can purchase them individually or in sets. However, it is best to buy them in quantities as you need them.
Smooth surface on both sides
When choosing an end mill for a particular job, you should look for a smooth surface on both sides. End mills have varying shapes and sizes, but there are some common characteristics. In addition to the size and shape, you should also consider the application and feed speeds. You should also consider features such as helical ramping, long-reach adjustments, eliminating wall taper, and surface finishing, Check out the post right here.
Another important feature is the geometry of the cutting tool. You should choose a cutter with a smooth surface on both sides to minimize the chances of chips forming on the workpiece. You can also choose between two types of cutters for the same project: compression end mills and up-cut end mills.
Longer tool life
The key factors affecting tool life are cutting speed and feed rate. When these variables are decreased, tool life increases. Increasing cutting speeds also reduce lubricant effect, which results in increased wear. Consequently, it is crucial to find an optimal feed rate and speed for the material you intend to mill.
Coatings can extend the life of your end mill and reduce wear and tear. Coatings such as Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) are a common choice for this purpose. While these coatings are costly, they can extend tool life.
Carbide end mills
Carbide end mills serve a specific purpose in machining. Compared to other types of end mills, they are less likely to chip and have a longer tool life. They also have better rigidity than HSS and can cut harder materials. This makes them a good choice for finishing applications. The downside of using carbide end mills is that they are more expensive than HSS. On the other hand, they last longer, which means greater productivity.
Carbide end mills are commonly used in cutting nonferrous materials. The main advantage of carbide is its ability to cut nonferrous materials more efficiently than HSS. This characteristic allows them to finish jobs much faster.
Variable helix end mills
Variable helix end mills are designed for a specific purpose. They are ideal for high-performance machining and production applications in difficult to machine materials. These end mills have several benefits. Different manufacturers use different helix angles to suit different materials. For example, higher helix angles are more effective for free machining stainless steel. However, too low a helix angle can lead to chattering and poor finishes.
Summary:
Variable helix end mills are available in different styles. For example, flutes 1 and 3 are right-hand cut, while flutes two and four are left-hand cut. These different flute designs also serve different purposes.