End Mills

[vipermanz]

What are the advantages of a 4 flute endmill against a 2 flute?, i would guess that a 2 flute would be better for aluminum.

[one_rod]

4-flute cutters give a finer finish on steel than 2-flute, but remove metal more slowly (need a lower feed speed).

For soft materials like Ali. 2 flutes are better as they tend not to clog up as easily. If you are cutting a lot of Ali. consider using kerosine as a cutting lube. Works a lot better than ordinary soluble oil. You only need a tiny amount squirted from one of those little bug-sprayer bottles to keep the tool cutting well.






one_rod

[scooterj]

Also, two flute mills are self-centering, like a drill bit, and 4 flute are not. 4 flutes will take a slightly heavier side load, which is sometimes more useful when bird-mouthing round stuff.

[vipermanz]

thanks, i had just noticed how much of a variety they come in

[dvmcmrhp52]

Originally posted by scooterj
Also, two flute mills are self-centering, like a drill bit, and 4 flute are not. 4 flutes will take a slightly heavier side load, which is sometimes more useful when bird-mouthing round stuff.





4 flute end mills are center cutting as well, you just have to buy them that way.

Endmill usage is completely dependent upon materials to be machined.

[HWooldridge]

WD40 also works well as a cutting lube for Aluminum.