End Mills
End mills are the cutting tools (bits) that are inserted into the collet of a spindle or router. It is the part that spins and does all of the cutting in all directions. Some end mills can plunge into the material (like drilling). All end mills have the ability to cut sideways (also called profiling).
A few facts to understand:
Overall length or OAL is the total length of the end mill.
Flutes are the portion of the end mill that does the cutting with sharp spiral or non spiral edges. Flutes can be up-cut (brings the chips up and out of the cut) or down-cut (forces the chips downward). Up-cut flutes will generally create a nice edge finish on the bottom of the material. Down-cut will create a nice top edge finish.
Shank is the portion of the end mill that does not have flutes and is used as the area for collet contact.
Most of the measurements will be shank diameter and flute diameter and flute length. Shank diameter is important in that you will need the correct collet to receive the shank. FLute diameter will create the width of the cut, or hole size.
General Purpose End Mill: Cut Length 1-1/8", 1/4" Diameter
This is an end mill that I use religiously because of it's extra length of cut of 1-1/8". This end mill can cut into thick material with flutes to spare. Features include, solid carbide (micrograin), 2 flutes, right hand rotation (up cut), overall length of 3", 1/4" shank diameter and 1/4" cut diameter, and a 30 degree helix.
Single End Mill - $20.95
PCB Isolation Etching End Mill 60 Degree Tip
This is an etching and engraving bit that can be used with non-ferrous metals, hardwoods, phenolics, stabilized woods and composite materials. This bit features a 1/8" shank 2 flute and 60 degree "V" point tip to cut the really thin grooves needed to isolate traces. This end mill is available uncoated, or ZrN (Zirconium Nitride) coating to extend tool life and increased cut quality.
Single End Mill - $13.95
10 Pack - $129.50 (save $10)
End Mill with ZrN coating - $16.95 (ZrN coating out of stock)
10 Pack - $159.50 (save $10) (ZrN coating out of stock)
3D Carving Tool:
For all types of applications including: dimensional signage, 3D carving, 3D contouring and profiling, cabinetry and furniture, and 3D millwork. Specifications: 1/4" shank, 2" in total length, maximum of .0002" runout, solid submicrograin carbide. Oh yeah, the cut creates a really smooth edge or surface. These are available with or without ZrN coating for longer life.
Single End Mill - $39.95
Single End Mill (ZrN Coating) - $49.95 - Out of stock