What is a common type of cutting tool used in CNC milling?

In CNC milling, end mills are a common type of cutting tool utilized due to their versatility and ability to perform a variety of cuts. End mills are designed with cutting edges on both the end and the sides, allowing them to cut in both vertical and horizontal directions. This ability enables the production of intricate shapes and complex features on machined parts, making them essential for many milling applications.

End mills come in various shapes and sizes, catering to different milling tasks, and can be used for face milling, slotting, and contouring operations. Their design allows for efficient chip removal during the milling process, which is crucial to maintaining tool integrity and achieving high precision in machining. This adaptability makes end mills one of the most widely used tools in CNC milling setups.

In contrast, drill bits are primarily designed for creating holes and do not effectively perform the lateral cutting required in milling operations. Saw blades, while effective for cutting larger materials, are not typically utilized within CNC milling processes due to their design and function. Reamers, though they improve hole accuracy and finish, are specialized tools meant for enlarging and finishing holes rather than performing diverse milling operations.