Milling bits, also known as milling cutters, are tools used in manual and CNC machines for cutting into materials like metal, plastic, or wood. They spin around and shave off parts of the material to shape it or create holes. They come in different shapes and sizes, with different uses. Some are made for general cutting, while others are for certain jobs like making smooth surfaces or detailed patterns.
The shank is attached to a machine that moves the bit against the material. Unlike drill bits, milling bits are used for more than just creating holes. You can use different kinds of milling bits to do different jobs, like cutting grooves, shaping the edges of a piece, or drilling holes.
The type of bit you choose depends on what you need to make. If you want to cut a slot, you use one type of bit, but if you want to make a 3D shape, you use another kind. These tools are important in making all sorts of things, from simple parts to complex items used in cars and airplanes.
High-speed steel (HSS) is among the most common bit materials because it stays hard even when hot, making it good for cutting at high speeds. It’s a great choice for softer materials and is quite affordable.
Carbide, or Tungsten Carbide, is much harder than HSS and keeps its sharp edge longer. This makes it perfect for cutting tougher materials like stainless steel, especially at high speeds. Sometimes, milling bits have just the cutting part made of carbide, with the rest being steel. Carbide end mills are made of solid carbide and have a longer tool life than other types.
Cobalt Steel Alloys, or HSS-Co, have cobalt mixed in, making them harder and more heat-resistant than regular HSS. This makes them good for tough materials and high-speed use where normal HSS would wear out too quickly.
Diamond-coated bits are used for very hard or abrasive materials. Since diamond is extremely hard, these bits are very durable. Ceramic milling cutters are another option for hard materials, especially at high speeds. They can handle high temperatures well but can be brittle.
Tool Steel is less common but is used for specific situations where its properties are needed. Additionally, many milling bits are coated with materials like Titanium Nitride (TiN) to make them last longer and perform better. The choice of material for a milling bit really depends on what you need to do with it, including the type of material you’re cutting, how fast you need to cut, and how long you want the bit to last.
