If you are new to CNC machining, the tooling vocabulary can be overwhelming. This guide covers the essentials.
Three Main Categories
- Turning tools — Cut rotating workpiece (lathe). Stationary tool.
- Milling tools — Rotating tool cuts stationary workpiece (mill, machining center).
- Hole-making tools — Drilling, boring, reaming, tapping.
Turning Tool Types
- External turning tool — Outside diameter (OD)
- Internal boring bar — Inside hole (ID)
- Threading tool — External/internal threads
- Grooving tool — Grooves and parts off material
Milling Tool Types
- End mill — Cuts on side and bottom. Most versatile.
- Face mill — Large cutter for flat surfaces
- Drill — Two-flute or four-flute for round holes
- Tap — Cuts threads in pre-drilled holes
- Reamer — Finishes hole to precise diameter
Tool Materials
| Material | Cost | Speed | Tool Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| HSS | Lowest | Slow | Short |
| HSS-Co | Low | Medium | Medium |
| Solid carbide | Medium | Fast | Long (5-10× HSS) |
| Ceramic | High | Very fast | Variable |
| CBN/PCD | Highest | Very fast | Very long |
Indexable vs Solid
- Solid — Made of one material. Sharpen repeatedly.
- Indexable — Carbide insert in steel holder. Replace insert when worn. Cheaper for production.
Where to Start
- Identify your most-machined material
- Pick the right ISO grade (P/M/K/N/S/H)
- Buy proven brands: Sandvik, Iscar, Walter, Kennametal
- Start with manufacturer parameters, then optimize
- Learn ISO insert designations (see our decoder)
Browse our insert catalog or end mill catalog.
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