Precision Milling Cutters,Cutting Tools for CNC Machining Every Material
In CNC machining, both 2-flute and 4-flute end mills are essential tools. Though similar in appearance, choosing wrong can impact efficiency and costs. We’ll break down their differences in structure, applications, and selection.
Core Differences
| Feature | 2-Flute End Mill | 4-Flute End Mill |
|---|---|---|
| Chip Space | Large | Small |
| Chip Evacuation | Excellent (aluminum/plastics) | Limited (prone to clogging) |
| Cutting Edges | 2 | 4 |
| Feed Rate | Lower | Higher |
| Surface Finish | Good | Excellent |
| Best Materials | Aluminum, wood, soft plastics | Steel, stainless steel, hard plastics |
| Best Operations | Deep slots, roughing | Finishing, thin walls |
1. Structural Differences
Cutting Edges
2-flute:
- Wider cutting edges
- Better for material removal
4-flute:
- Double the edges
- Higher feed capability
Chip Evacuation
- 2-flute: 50% more space
Prevents clogging with gummy materials
- 4-flute: Compact design
For short-chipping metals only
2. Material Selection Guide
| Material | Recommended Tool | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminum/Wood | 2-flute | Prevents chip welding |
| Steel/Cast Iron | 4-flute | Better heat dissipation |
| Titanium/Alloys | Test both | Coating-dependent performance |
3. Performance Comparison
| Parameter | 2-Flute | 4-Flute |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Roughness | Ra 3.2-6.3μm | Ra 1.6-3.2μm |
| Speed Range | 800-3,000 RPM | 1,500-5,000 RPM |
4. 3-Step Selection
Step 1: Check Material
- Soft (HB<200) → 2-flute
- Hard (HB≥200) → 4-flute
Step 2: Operation Type
- Roughing → 2-flute
- Finishing → 4-flute
Step 3: Machine Power
- Low power → 2-flute
- High-speed CNC → 4-flute
Cost Analysis
2-flute:
- Lower initial cost
- Replace when worn
4-flute:
- Higher upfront cost
- Can be reground
Summary
2-flute end mills excel in aluminum/soft materials with superior chip evacuation, while 4-flute versions deliver better finishes on steel/hard materials. Choose based on material hardness, operation type (roughing vs finishing), and machine capability. Always test critical applications
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