4 Flutes Square End Mills and 4 Flutes Corner Radius End Mills: What’s the Difference?

End mills are cutting tools used in milling machines to remove material from a workpiece. They come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific applications. Two popular types of end mills are the 4 flutes square end mill and the 4 flutes corner radius end mill. In this blog, we will discuss the differences between these two types of end mills and their respective applications.

Features of 4 Flutes Square End Mills

4 flutes square end mills have four cutting edges and a square end. They are made of high-speed steel (HSS), cobalt, or carbide, which makes them durable and long-lasting. The four flutes provide a larger surface area for cutting, which results in faster material removal and improved surface finish. The square end allows for a sharp corner and precise cuts.

Features of 4 Flutes Corner Radius End Mills

4 flutes corner radius end mills have four cutting edges and a corner radius at the end. The corner radius allows for a smoother cut and reduces the likelihood of chipping or breaking the workpiece. They are also made of high-speed steel, cobalt, or carbide, which makes them durable and long-lasting.

Differences Between 4 Flutes Square End Mills and 4 Flutes Corner Radius End Mills

The main difference between 4 flutes square end mills and 4 flutes corner radius end mills is the shape of the end. 4 flutes square end mills have a square end, while 4 flutes corner radius end mills have a corner radius at the end. The corner radius allows for a smoother cut and reduces the likelihood of chipping or breaking the workpiece. 4 flutes square end mills are ideal for roughing operations, where material removal is the primary goal. They can remove large amounts of material quickly and efficiently. 4 flutes corner radius end mills are ideal for finishing operations, where a smooth and precise surface finish is required. They can produce sharp corners and precise cuts, resulting in a high-quality finish.

Applications of 4 Flutes Square End Mills and 4 Flutes Corner Radius End Mills4 flutes square end mills are ideal for roughing operations, where material removal is the primary goal. They can remove large amounts of material quickly and efficiently. They are also suitable for slotting and drilling operations. 4 flutes corner radius end mills are ideal for finishing operations, where a smooth and precise surface finish is required. They can produce sharp corners and precise cuts, resulting in a high-quality finish. They are also suitable for contouring and profiling operations.

Conclusion

4 flutes square end mills and 4 flutes corner radius end mills are both versatile cutting tools that can be used for a wide range of applications. The main difference between them is the shape of the end. 4 flutes square end mills have a square end, while 4 flutes corner radius end mills have a corner radius at the end. 4 flutes square end mills are ideal for roughing operations, while 4 flutes corner radius end mills are ideal for finishing operations. When choosing between these two types of end mills, consider the specific application and the desired outcome.