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When selecting end mills for CNC milling, the nature and composition of the tool play crucial roles in performance, precision, and machining speed. High-speed steel (HSS) and solid carbide end mills have been the go-to tools for many machinists. If you are torn between the two, this article can help you make an informed decision on which one is the better choice.
High-speed steel tools began to be used in the 1930s. HSS tools revolutionized cutting and milling standards as they are considered tougher, more durable, and versatile. They can cut various metals, making them a valuable investment.
On the other hand, carbide tools are an alternative to diamond cutting tools. They are made from cobalt and tungsten carbide, which are subjected to heat and pressure to compact and enhance the material.
Interestingly, the use of carbide blades predates HSS blades. Although HSS tools once had significant advantages over carbide tools, advancements in design and technology have made carbide tools stronger than those produced centuries ago.
Heat Resistance
Machining activities, such as drilling and boring, generate high temperatures. Overheating is a serious issue that operators cannot ignore, as it may cause severe effects like tool deformation or shortened tool lifespan. Therefore, it requires active temperature regulation through continuous monitoring and cooling mechanisms. Due to their inherently higher heat resistance, solid carbide end mills possess greater heat resistance. As such, they can deliver high performance without losing shape or functionality. Therefore, if you work at high temperatures, carbide tools can meet your needs regardless of your skill level and expertise.
Toughness
Besides heat resistance, solid carbide end mills are generally harder. The toughness of carbide tools provides them with great versatility and enables them to drill or tap through various materials. Hence, experts recommend solid carbide end mills for projects requiring rework. Furthermore, they suggest using carbide drill bits for materials that generate a lot of dust and debris during drilling.
Durability
The combination of heat resistance and toughness makes carbide blades more durable, thus extending their tool life. Their longevity far surpasses HSS. However, if you are looking for disposable tools that can be replaced quickly, RNK's solid carbide end mills will be a better choice.
Final Results
End mills determine the milling, boring, and tapping actions, which, in turn, affect the workpiece's finish and final results. Defects, such as burrs, not only weaken the finished product's aesthetic quality but also pose risks or obstructions to part performance. Since machining plays a crucial role in part compatibility, obtaining clean, smooth, and accurate finishes may be a top priority.
Fortunately, solid carbide end mills can deliver such results. The toughness and heat resistance of carbide tools allow operators to focus on machining actions, ensuring smoother and more polished machining.
Sharpening
When it comes to tool maintenance, tools like end mills must be sharpened and calibrated frequently. Due to the faster wear rate of HSS tools, they may require frequent sharpening. But on the positive side, they are easier to sharpen. On the other hand, carbide sharpeners require less frequent sharpening, but you must use specialized carbide sharpeners to achieve the desired results, which can be quite expensive.
However, if you quantify costs through variables like durability and toughness, which affect tool lifespan, carbide tools may be more suitable for trained professionals. Ultimately, the above comparison can help you determine whether you should choose HSS or solid carbide end mills. While carbide blades score more points, HSS also has its standout moments. That said, you also need to make a choice based on application and project requirements. No matter which tool you choose, you must maintain it well in the long run for better use.
