Pete Snell wrote:
wrote:
This is a dumb question, but what are the relative advantages of
4-Flute vs. 2-Flute end mills, and on what applications should one type
be chosen over the other?
Harry C.
2 flute can plunge cut, 4 flute cannot.
Today, a sizable fraction of 4-flute cutters CAN plunge cut (they have
one long tooth extending to the center). Not really well, I'll grant
(not much chip clearance). Drills are far better for making holes than
milling cutters.
2-flute cutters are also better for slotting to size (especially in thin
materials) in one pass. Side deflection of the cutter still occurs, but
it doesn't widen the cut as it does with 4-flute cutters ... think about
it).
Dan Mitchell
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