EJ/Customized
Carbide, HIGH SPEED STEEL, Tungsten Cobalt Alloy, Customize
Gear milling
AlTiN, Tin, TiAIN, TiCN, Customize
70
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Product Description
Design: T-slot cutters have a distinctive "T" shape, with a cutting head that includes a cylindrical body and a cutting edge. The cutting edge has teeth on its circumference for cutting into the workpiece.
Material: They are typically made from high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide to withstand the forces involved in milling operations and to maintain sharp cutting edges for extended periods.
Types of Cutters:
Staggered-tooth: These cutters have teeth that are staggered along the circumference, allowing for a smoother cut and reduced chatter during milling.
Straight-tooth: These cutters have teeth aligned in a straight row along the circumference. They are suitable for creating T-slots in softer materials or lighter cutting operations.
Cutting Diameter and Width: T-type milling cutters come in various sizes, offering different cutting diameters and widths to accommodate specific slot dimensions required for the application.
Shank Design: The shank of the cutter determines its compatibility with milling machine collets or tool holders. Common shank designs include straight shanks or arbor-mounted options.
Flute Configuration: The number and design of flutes on the cutter can vary. Flutes provide pathways for chip evacuation during cutting and impact the surface finish of the milled slot.
Coating Options: Some T-slot cutters may have specialized coatings like TiN (Titanium Nitride), TiCN (Titanium Carbonitride), or TiAlN (Titanium Aluminum Nitride) applied to improve wear resistance and extend tool life.
Versatility: Apart from creating T-shaped slots, these cutters can also be used for cutting other types of slots, grooves, or keyways in workpieces.
Usage: T-type milling cutters are commonly used in various industries such as manufacturing, machining, and metalworking for creating precise T-slots in components used in fixturing, tooling, or workholding applications.
Compatibility: They are used with milling machines that have the capability to mount and use such specialized cutting tools, providing the necessary rigidity and accuracy for the milling process.
Cutter Diameter: This specification refers to the diameter of the cutting head of the T-slot cutter. It determines the size of the T-slot or groove that the cutter can create.
Cutting Width: The cutting width of the T-slot cutter indicates the width of the slot or groove it can mill into the workpiece. It determines the final dimensions of the T-shaped slot.
Shank Diameter: The shank diameter is the measurement of the non-cutting end of the cutter that fits into the milling machine's collet or tool holder. It ensures compatibility with the machine's tooling system.
Number of Teeth: T-slot cutters come with different numbers of cutting teeth. The number of teeth affects the chip load, cutting performance, and surface finish. Common tooth configurations include staggered or straight teeth.
Flute Configuration: This specification indicates the arrangement and design of the flutes (cutting edges) on the cutter. Flutes facilitate chip evacuation during the milling process and impact the surface finish of the milled slot. They can be straight or spiral-shaped.
Material: T-slot cutters are typically made from high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide. The choice of material influences the cutter's durability, cutting efficiency, and suitability for different materials.
Coating: Some T-slot cutters may have coatings like TiN (Titanium Nitride), TiCN (Titanium Carbonitride), or TiAlN (Titanium Aluminum Nitride) applied to enhance wear resistance, reduce friction, and extend tool life.
Overall Length: The total length of the T-slot cutter, including the cutting head and the shank. It determines the cutter's reach and its ability to access certain areas of the workpiece.
Cutting Direction: Some T-slot cutters are designed for conventional (clockwise) milling, while others are suitable for climb (counter-clockwise) milling. The appropriate cutting direction depends on the material and machining requirements.
Compatibility and Application: Consider the compatibility of the cutter with the specific milling machine, its intended use for creating T-slots or grooves, and its suitability for different materials such as metals, plastics, or wood.
Purpose: T-slot cutters are designed specifically for machining T-shaped slots or grooves, primarily used for fixturing, clamping, or mounting purposes. These slots accommodate T-shaped bolts, studs, or fixtures for secure fastening and alignment.
Construction: They feature a cylindrical body with a cutting head on one end. The cutting head contains cutting edges (teeth) around its circumference to mill the T-shaped slot into the workpiece.
Materials: T-slot cutters are commonly made from high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide materials. Carbide cutters offer increased durability and wear resistance compared to HSS cutters, making them suitable for more demanding machining tasks.
Variations:
Staggered-tooth cutters: These have teeth staggered along the circumference, providing smoother cutting action and reduced chatter during machining.
Straight-tooth cutters: With teeth aligned in a straight row, these cutters are suitable for lighter cutting operations or softer materials.
Shank Designs: The shank of the cutter determines its compatibility with milling machine collets or holders. Common designs include straight shanks or arbor-mounted options.
Flute Configuration: Flutes on the cutter aid in chip evacuation during cutting. The number and design of flutes affect cutting efficiency and surface finish. Flutes can be straight or spiral-shaped.
Coatings: Some T-slot cutters may have coatings like Titanium Nitride (TiN), Titanium Carbonitride (TiCN), or Titanium Aluminum Nitride (TiAlN) to enhance wear resistance, reduce friction, and extend tool life.
Applications: T-type milling cutters are used in various industries such as manufacturing, metalworking, woodworking, and engineering for creating precise T-shaped slots or grooves in workpieces, fixtures, or jigs.
Machining Techniques: Proper techniques, including the selection of cutting speeds, feeds, and depth of cut, are essential for efficient T-slot milling. Additionally, proper workpiece clamping and machine setup are crucial for accuracy.
Safety Considerations: Adherence to safety protocols is important when using T-type milling cutters. Proper eye protection, secure workholding, and correct cutting parameters help prevent accidents and ensure operator safety.
Sharp Cutting Edges: T-type milling cutters have sharp cutting edges that can cause severe cuts or injuries if mishandled. Always handle these cutters with care and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety gloves and eye protection.
Rotating Machinery: Milling machines that accommodate T-type cutters operate at high speeds. Ensure the machine is turned off and completely stopped before attempting to change or adjust the cutter. Follow proper lock-out/tag-out procedures.
Proper Tool Selection: Use the correct cutter size and type suitable for the material and milling operation. Incorrect selection or mismatched tools can lead to tool breakage, workpiece damage, and potential injury.
Secure Workpiece Clamping: Ensure the workpiece is securely clamped to the machine table or fixture to prevent movement or unexpected shifts during cutting. A loose workpiece can cause accidents or damage to the cutter and the workpiece.
Cutting Parameters: Follow manufacturer recommendations for cutting speeds, feeds, and depth of cut. Using improper cutting parameters can lead to tool breakage, poor surface finish, and safety hazards.
Chip Evacuation: Proper chip evacuation is crucial during milling. Ensure that the cutter's flutes are clear and unobstructed to prevent chip buildup, which can affect cutting performance and create potential hazards.
Heat Generation and Cooling: Milling generates heat, and cooling lubricants or cutting fluids may be necessary to dissipate heat and prolong tool life. Take precautions to avoid contact with hot chips or workpieces.
Operator Training: Ensure operators are properly trained in using milling machines and handling T-type milling cutters. Inexperienced operators should seek guidance or training before performing milling operations.
Inspect Tools Regularly: Check T-type milling cutters for signs of wear, damage, or dullness before use. Damaged or worn cutters can cause poor cutting performance, leading to accidents or injury.
Machine Compatibility: Ensure that the milling machine is suitable for accommodating T-type milling cutters. Use the appropriate collets or tool holders and ensure the machine's stability during cutting operations.
What are T-type milling cutters used for?
T-type milling cutters, also known as T-slot cutters, are primarily used for milling T-shaped slots or grooves in workpieces. These slots are commonly used for fixturing, clamping, or mounting purposes in various industries.
What materials are T-type milling cutters made from?
T-slot cutters are typically made from high-speed steel (HSS) or carbide. Carbide cutters offer higher durability and wear resistance compared to HSS, making them suitable for tougher materials or more demanding milling tasks.
What are the common sizes available for T-type milling cutters?
T-type milling cutters come in various sizes, offering different diameters, cutting widths, and shank diameters to accommodate a range of T-slot dimensions required for specific applications.
What are the differences between staggered-tooth and straight-tooth T-slot cutters?
Staggered-tooth cutters have teeth arranged in a staggered pattern around the circumference, providing smoother cutting and reduced chatter during machining. Straight-tooth cutters have teeth aligned in a straight row and are suitable for lighter cutting operations.
How do I select the right T-type milling cutter for my application?
Consider the dimensions of the T-slot required, the material being machined, the milling machine's compatibility, cutting parameters, and the type of cutter (HSS or carbide) suitable for the job.
Are there specific safety considerations when using T-type milling cutters?
Yes, some key safety considerations include using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), securing workpieces properly, following correct cutting parameters, and inspecting tools for wear or damage before use to prevent accidents or injuries.
Can T-type milling cutters be re-sharpened or reconditioned?
Yes, T-slot cutters can often be re-sharpened or reconditioned to restore their cutting edges and prolong their life. However, this process should be carried out by experienced individuals using proper grinding equipment.
In which industries or applications are T-type milling cutters commonly used?
T-type milling cutters find application in various industries such as manufacturing, metalworking, woodworking, and engineering, where precise T-shaped slots or grooves are needed in workpieces for fixturing, clamping, or mounting purposes.
What maintenance is required for T-type milling cutters?
Regular inspection for wear, damage, or dullness, proper storage, and occasional reconditioning or re-sharpening when needed are essential for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of T-type milling cutters.
