Schaftfräser

Schaftfräser are end mills with a cylindrical shank designed for clamping in a collet or chuck. They are used for milling operations in milling machines, machining centers and CNC routers where toolholding is achieved via the straight shank rather than a specialized toolholder. The cutting portion is a conventional end mill geometry, with the shank extending opposite the cutting edges.

The cutting body is typically made from high‑speed steel (HSS) or solid carbide, with carbide variants offering higher stiffness and wear resistance. Coatings such as TiN, TiAlN or AlTiN are commonly applied to improve tool life and reduce built‑up edge when machining metals. Diameters range from fractions of a millimeter to several tens of millimeters; overall length and flute count vary to suit different applications. Common configurations include 2, 3 or 4 flutes, with helix angles commonly in the 25–40 degree range for metalworking.

Applications include general-purpose milling, pocketing, profiling, slotting, and face milling in metalworking and engineering. The shank-based design means that runout accuracy depends on the compatibility and rigidity of the toolholder and clamping setup. Schaftfräser are widely used when a straightforward toolholding solution is required or when the machine’s spindle or collet can only accept a straight shank.

Selection and operation depend on workpiece material, desired surface finish, and machine capability. Carbide tools typically allow higher speeds and feeds, while HSS tools are more economical for softer materials. Proper clamping, coolant use, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines are essential for tool life and workpiece quality.