11 An Introduction to CNC Milling
11.5 Tool Types
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11.5.1.
End Mills
An end mill is a tool with two or more teeth. The most commonly used end mills have two teeth and a
flat-tip. End mills are used for milling flat surfaces. The end mill is the most commonly used tool for basic
mill operations and creates a cut with 90-degree angle edges.
11.5.2.
Ball Mills
A ball mill is an end mill with a ball tip. The rounded tip leaves a smoother finish on a contoured surface
than other types of milling tools. The angle of the edges of the cut is equal to the radius of the ball tip.
11.5.3.
Drilling Tools
A drill looks like an end mill with a pointed tip. Often, after a part is machined from a solid piece of
stock, there are holes that have to be drilled. By changing the tool to a drill, the drilling can take place
without removing the stock from the vise.
