Best Tapered End Mills

of May 2024

Choosing the right tapered end mills is crucial for achieving precise and efficient cuts on your workpiece. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your specific application. In this article, we will provide you with valuable tips when choosing tapered end mills.

Tip 1: Determine the Required Taper

The type of taper that you need will depend on the cutting task, material, and the desired finish. Tapered end mills come in a variety of angles and lengths, commonly ranging from 2 to 20 degrees. They can be used for roughing, finishing, and corner rounding applications. For example, a 15-degree tapered end mill is suitable for steep walls, while a 7-degree tapered end mill is better for shallow walls. Consider the geometry of your workpiece and choose the taper that will make the most efficient cuts and provide the desired finish.

Tip 1.1: Understand the Different Taper Types

There are two primary types of tapered end mills:

• Conical Tapered End Mills: These have a conical shape and a rounded tip that gradually narrows towards the shank. They are ideal for milling angled slots, chamfers, and contours.
• Ball Nose Tapered End Mills: These have a round tip with a tapered shape that gradually narrows towards the shank. They are ideal for milling 3D shapes, curved surfaces, and other intricate features.

Tip 2: Consider the Material to be Cut

Different materials have different cutting characteristics that require different cutting tools. The right tapered end mill for one type of material may not be the same for another. For example, carbide tapered end mills are ideal for cutting hard materials such as stainless steel and carbon fiber, while HSS (high-speed steel) tapered end mills are great for softer materials like aluminum and plastics. Always refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for best use with specific materials to avoid damaging your cutting tool and workpiece.

Tip 2.1: Determine the Machining Parameters

In addition to the material to be cut, you must also determine the machining parameters for the specific application. These parameters include the cutting speed, feed rate, and depth of cut, among others. For example, a slow cutting speed and shallow depth of cut may be necessary for hard materials, while a faster cutting speed may be required for softer materials. Make sure to match the recommended machining parameters with your chosen tapered end mill to achieve the best results.

Tip 3: Select the Right Coating

The coating on the tapered end mills can impact their performance and durability. Coatings can improve tool life, reduce friction, and provide better chip evacuation. Some popular coatings include:

• Titanium Nitride (TiN): This coating is suitable for cutting softer materials, such as aluminum or brass. It is known for reducing friction and extending tool life.
• Titanium Carbon Nitride (TiCN): This coating is ideal for cutting harder materials, such as stainless steel. It is more wear-resistant than TiN, making it a popular choice for high-volume production jobs.
• Aluminum Titanium Nitride (AlTiN): This coating is ideal for both hard and soft materials. It provides excellent wear resistance and reduced friction, allowing for high-speed machining.

Tip 4: Choose the Right Shank Size

The shank size determines how the tapered end mill is held in place and the maximum size of the workpiece it can mill. A larger shank diameter can provide more stability and reduce vibrations, which can lead to a better surface finish. However, larger shank sizes may restrict the size of the workpiece or the machine's speed. Make sure to choose the tapered end mill with the appropriate shank size that can fit your machine and handle the workpiece size.

Tip 4.1: Know the Different Shank Types

There are two primary types of shank designs for tapered end mills:

• Straight Shank: This shank type is cylindrical and evenly sized throughout the length of the tool. It is suitable for use in high-speed milling machines and provides good rigidity and stability.
• Tapered Shank: This shank type is wider at the base and gradually narrows towards the end. It provides more strength and rigidity and is commonly used in machines with a spindle that has a matching taper.

Tip 5: Check the Flute Design

The flute design affects the tool's chip evacuation and the surface finish of the workpiece. There are three primary flute designs for tapered end mills:

• Straight Flute: This design is suitable for softer materials and provides good chip evacuation. However, it can result in a rough surface finish.
• Spiral Flute: This design is suitable for harder materials and provides better chip evacuation and a smoother surface finish.
• Variable Flute: This design combines both straight and spiral flutes to provide a balance of chip evacuation and surface finish. It is ideal for milling different materials types and thicknesses.

Conclusion

When selecting tapered end mills, there are many factors to consider. Understanding the required taper, choosing the right coating, shank size, and flute design can significantly impact the tool's performance and efficiency. By using these valuable tips, you can make an informed decision when selecting the tapered end mills that are best suited for your specific application.