Frézy

Frézy are cutting tools used to remove material in milling and routing operations. In Czech, the term refers to a broad family of tools that are mounted in milling machines, CNC mills, or handheld routers. They are available in many shapes and sizes to suit different materials, geometries, and finishing requirements.

The most common form is the end mill, which cuts with edges on the tip and along the body. End mills can be center-cutting, enabling plunge cuts, and vary in number of flutes, helix angle, and flute geometry. Other important types include ball-nose or rounded-end mills for 3D contouring, flat-end or square-end mills for flat surface milling, and specialized cutters such as chamfer, grooving, or keyseat cutters. In woodworking, router bits function as frézy and cover many profiles and edge treatments.

Materials and coatings influence cutting performance. Frézy are made from high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide, with carbide providing greater hardness and wear resistance. Coatings such as titanium nitride (TiN), titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN), or titanium carbonitride (TiCN) can extend tool life and enable higher speeds. For certain applications, diamond- or ceramic-coated tools are used. Tool shanks are typically solid or hollow with standard diameters, and the overall length and flute count depend on the job.

Selection and use involve considering workpiece material, required finish, and machine capabilities. Speeds and feeds must match tool geometry, material, and cooling conditions. Proper toolholding, lubrication or cooling, and wear monitoring are essential for safety and productivity. Frézy are a fundamental component in metalworking, woodworking, and plastics machining, enabling pockets, pockets, contours, and precise profiles.