End Mill Geometry

End mill geometry refers to the design and arrangement of the tool’s cutting edges, flutes, and structural features, which together determine its cutting performance, chip evacuation, and material engagement. Key aspects include the flute count and shape, helix angle, rake and relief angles, and the end face geometry, all of which influence cutting forces, surface finish, and tool life. The specific combination of these elements is tailored to different materials and machining applications, balancing factors like strength, sharpness, and chip flow efficiency.

End Mill Geometry

Dish Angle

Dish Angle
The dish angle in end mill geometry refers to the slight concavity on the end face of the tool, ensuring that the cutting edges are the highest points. This design prevents the center of the tool from rubbing against the workpiece, reducing friction and improving cutting efficiency. The dish angle is especially important for end...

Flute

Flute
The flute of an end mill is the helical or straight groove that runs along the length of the tool, serving two primary functions: providing a cutting edge for material removal and creating a pathway for chip evacuation. Each flute contains a cutting edge along its leading side, while the space within the flute allows...

Gash

Gash
The gash on an end mill refers to the recessed area at the tip of the tool, which is ground into the flute to create a cutting edge that allows for efficient chip evacuation and proper cutting action. It plays a critical role in the center-cutting capability of an end mill, as it helps form...

Heel

Heel
The heel of an end mill refers to the transition area at the back of the relief land, where the relieved surface meets the flute or the core of the tool. It is the lowest point on the relieved surface, opposite the cutting edge.

Helix Angle

Helix Angle
The helix angle in end mill geometry is the angle formed between the cutting edge of the flute and the axis of the tool. It directly affects cutting forces, chip evacuation, and tool stability. A low helix angle (typically 20°–30°) generates higher cutting forces and is better suited for tough materials, as it provides stronger...

Peripheral Cutting Edge

Peripheral Cutting Edge
The peripheral cutting edge of an end mill refers to the portion of the cutting edge located along the outer diameter of the tool, where the flutes meet the cylindrical surface. This edge is responsible for generating the sidewall of a cut when performing contouring, profiling, or slotting operations. It is defined by the tool’s...

Primary Relief Angle

Primary Relief Angle
The primary relief angle in end mill geometry is the angle ground behind the cutting edge to reduce friction between the tool and the workpiece. It ensures that only the cutting edge engages with the material, preventing excessive rubbing that could generate heat and wear. A larger primary relief angle decreases contact and cutting forces,...

Primary Relief Land

Primary Relief Land
The primary relief land on an end mill is the narrow, relieved surface directly behind the cutting edge, providing clearance to prevent rubbing and excessive friction between the tool and the workpiece. This relief is essential for effective cutting, as it allows the cutting edge to engage cleanly with the material while minimizing tool wear...

Rake Angle

Rake Angle
The rake angle in end mill geometry refers to the inclination of the cutting edge relative to the material being cut. It influences cutting forces, chip formation, and overall tool performance. A positive rake angle means the cutting edge is angled forward, shearing material more efficiently with lower cutting forces, making it ideal for softer...

Secondary Relief Angle

Secondary Relief Angle
The secondary relief angle in end mill geometry is an additional clearance behind the primary relief angle, further reducing contact between the tool and the workpiece. Its purpose is to reinforce the cutting edge while still minimizing friction and heat buildup. This angle is typically shallower than the primary relief angle, providing a transition zone...

Secondary Relief Land

Secondary Relief Land
The secondary relief land on an end mill is the additional relieved surface located behind the primary relief land, providing further clearance to minimize friction and extend tool life. It is typically ground at a shallower angle than the primary relief, creating a stepped transition that reduces the amount of tool material in contact with...
Dish Angle

Dish Angle

The dish angle in end mill geometry refers to the slight concavity on the end face of the tool, ensuring...
Flute

Flute

The flute of an end mill is the helical or straight groove that runs along the length of the tool,...
Gash

Gash

The gash on an end mill refers to the recessed area at the tip of the tool, which is ground into the...
Heel

Heel

The heel of an end mill refers to the transition area at the back of the relief land, where the relieved...
Helix Angle

Helix Angle

The helix angle in end mill geometry is the angle formed between the cutting edge of the flute and...
Peripheral Cutting Edge

Peripheral Cutting Edge

The peripheral cutting edge of an end mill refers to the portion of the cutting edge located along...
Primary Relief Angle

Primary Relief Angle

The primary relief angle in end mill geometry is the angle ground behind the cutting edge to reduce...
Primary Relief Land

Primary Relief Land

The primary relief land on an end mill is the narrow, relieved surface directly behind the cutting...
Rake Angle

Rake Angle

The rake angle in end mill geometry refers to the inclination of the cutting edge relative to the material...
Secondary Relief Angle

Secondary Relief Angle

The secondary relief angle in end mill geometry is an additional clearance behind the primary relief...