FlatEndMills

Flat end mills are a type of cutting tool commonly used in machining operations, particularly in milling processes. They are characterized by their flat bottom and cylindrical shank, designed to create flat-bottomed features, slots, and pockets in various materials such as metals, plastics, and composites. The cutting edges are typically located on the periphery of the tool, though some variations also feature a small amount of relief on the bottom face to enhance chip clearance.

These end mills are available in different diameters, lengths, and flute configurations, allowing them to be tailored for specific applications. The number of flutes—usually ranging from two to six—affects the tool’s cutting efficiency, chip evacuation, and surface finish. A higher number of flutes generally produces a smoother finish but may reduce cutting speed due to increased friction.

Flat end mills are often made from high-speed steel (HSS), carbide, or cobalt alloys, with carbide being the most common for hard materials due to its superior wear resistance. Coatings such as titanium nitride (TiN) or diamond-like carbon (DLC) are sometimes applied to improve durability and reduce friction.

Common applications include milling flat surfaces, profiling, pocketing, and slotting in CNC machining centers, lathes, or manual mills. They are particularly useful when precise, flat-bottomed features are required, such as in aerospace components, automotive parts, and general metal fabrication. Proper tool selection, speed, and feed rates are critical to achieving optimal performance and tool life.