The Basics of Buying and Using Endmills - TensileMill CNC

The endmill is highly crucial consumable in the tensile sample preparation process. By shaping and cutting materials like wood, metal, rubber, and plastic, the endmill makes sure that every specimen that goes through the testing process will be in the proper shape and condition according to their respective specifications.

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As such, choosing the right kind of end mill is equally crucial as an investment to make. The question, however, is this: how do you go about choosing the best Endmill for your material testing processes? Keep in mind that there is an Endmill for every job and material out there. It's up to you to look for the one that fits your need the most.

To do that, there are some considerations that you have to keep in mind first.

What's an Endmill?

When you look at an endmill, the first thing that might come to your mind is that it is just another fancy type of drill bit. However, the truth is that the Endmill functions differently from your conventional drill. Instead of drilling a hole downwards, the Endmill can "cut" sideways on any given material, which creates the testing specimen itself.

As was stated, endmills like the CNC precision endmill were designed to cut through different materials with minimum resistance. As such, you will find different endmills out there with varying sizes, sample material proficiency, cutting edge, and flute count. They may also slightly differ in the angle of their cut, as well as the shape of the cutting tip.

Of course, tools like CNC endmills were made with versatility in mind. Depending on the model that you will find, you can easily switch the blades and cutting tips to process materials with different degrees of hardness. Just keep in mind that the price of an endmill is directly proportional to its versatility. If it can cut more than one type of material, you can be certain that it will be a bit more expensive compared to its brethren.

However, they function with the same general premise. Regardless of the material that needs to be tested, the process will always begin with the operator taking a sample of the material and then feeding it to the cutting machine. Some preliminary cuts will have to be made, depending on the material for the sample to fit the machine.

Once done, all that is left to do is guide the machine in cutting the material. This phase is highly crucial as the machine does not exactly know what size and dimensions the operator is looking for in their testing sample. They will have to carefully guide the material through the blade until the most appropriate size and dimensions are met for the testing process.

Picking the Proper Endmill for You

Now that you know how each end mill functions, the next phase of the problem involves picking the model that will fit your workspace's needs. Again, remember that the ere is an Endmill model out there in the market for every workspace size, material type, and budget.

With that being said, there are 4 major factors you have to remember when choosing an endmill model.

Factor 1: Size

The cutting tips of an endmill have a diameter size that goes as big as half an inch to something as small as a needle. At the forefront, you might get the idea that you won't need endmills with small cutting tips but these cutters have their uses.

For instance, you might be working with a material quite delicate that you need a tool with a small, fine edge that can cut without causing the entire sample to crumble. On the other hand, you might be working with materials like wood and steel that would require all the brute force that your machine could muster. Thus, tips with larger diameter sizes will be necessary.

The actual size of the Endmill will also matter in this regard. Larger Endmills are more durable and can be used for multiple successive operations without malfunction. On the other hand, the smaller endmills are best used for more delicate sample material. Of course, the trade-off for that portability and ease of use will be their rather fragile structure. If you run them too fast, you might risk breaking them.

Factor 2: Length

Of course, endmills were designed with varying sizes to deal with different material thickness and density levels. As of now, you can get endmills in three length classes, namely:

• Stub
• Regular
• Long

As was previously stated, the length of the endmill determines how deep a cut it can produce in a material. As such, the general rule for choosing endmill lengths is to always match it with the overall thickness of your sample materials. You want something that can cut through your samples and not just leave a deep gash.

Longer endmills might have better chances of cutting through materials but they have a higher degree of bending or breaking. The longer material length means that there is more surface for stress to travel through every time that you use the endmill. Thus, if you are not careful, you might end up with a bent or broken endmill, especially if the sample material is quite tough.

Also, short endmills have their unique advantage. Aside from being the right material for thin sample materials, stub-length endmills offer more precision when it comes to cutting through corners. This is ideal if part of your testing processes involves studying materials with 3 dimensions.

Note: If you have to choose between cut length and accuracy, it is best to choose the latter. A shorter endmill will allow you to make 3-dimensional cuts or handle materials that will be subjected to a lot of pressure at the sides. Of course, shorter endmills have a lesser degree of breakage.

Factor 3: Shape

End mills have shapes that are based on the angle of the helix and rake indented to them. Each shape has a different level of efficiency, depending on the type of material that they have to cut through.

For example, an endmill with a drill point or with a center cut is best for situations where you have to bore through the material first before you can start cutting sideways. This is usually what happens when testing materials with hard surfaces like wood and metal.

On the other hand, non-centered end mills are best for situations where the material has to be cut from the side to get a sample specimen. And if the end mill has a ball end, this would mean that they are best suited for situations where you have to cut through angled surfaces or those with a slot or hole.

Factor 4: Flute Count

Every end mill will have a flute count ranging from 2 to 5. Why is this important, you ask? The flutes are the number of cutting edges in your end mills that will affect the quality of the cut.

For instance, if you use an end mill with 5 flutes, this will result in a cut that is smoother and smaller. This is ideal when working with fragile material. On the other hand, end mills with fewer flutes will result in rougher and jagged cuts but will produce fewer chips. This means that each operation of the end mill will produce not a lot of waste material.

Factor 5: Durability

The final consideration you should remember when looking for tensile specimen preparation consumables in the market is their ability to withstand a lot of stress without breaking. The durability of an endmill is dependent on what material was used to create them which are the following:

• High-Speed Steel - The standard for end mills right now, High-Speed Steel is designed to withstand friction, which is a common factor in operations like drilling and material testing. HSS works well in most situations but it does wear out after multiple uses.
• Carbide - This material is highly heat-resistant, which makes it ideal for high-speed tests on materials like cast iron, high-grade plastic, non-ferrous materials, and other tough objects. Due to its tough nature, carbide allows for end mills that are rigid and can be operated at 2 to 3 times the normal speed of HSS end mills.
• HSS Cobalt - This is arguably the toughest possible material for end mills. Cobalt can withstand a lot of heat and friction without degrading after prolonged multiple uses. The only caveat is their price as HSS cobalt end mills tend to be more expensive than the other two types.

What Brand to Choose

There are several manufacturers out there that claim to be the best provider of round tensile preparation equipment. But, of course, you would want to invest in a company that provides the quality as they promised.

So, how do you go about choosing the right manufacturer? Here are a few factors to keep in mind.

1. Compliance with Industry Standards - This is obvious but you should never pick a company that cannot show proof that it has followed standards in the industry. The manufacturer of your choice should have stringent quality control measures in place so they would regularly produce end mills of the best possible quality.

2. Referrals - Always seek manufacturers of tensile preparation equipment that have a sizeable list of referrals. What you have to understand is that feedback from people who have tried the products or have dealt with the company will be more informative than any marketing campaign. Of course, the feedback must be positive as you'd rather not deal with a manufacturer that got more complaints than actual referrals.

3. Support - If possible, chose a company with an extensive support network spanning the globe. This is important if you run a company with overseas branches. You'd rather have a manufacturer with a branch near where you operate so that the act of procuring products will be more convenient on your part.

4. Spare Parts - When it comes to machinery, having spare parts is always necessary. As such, look for a company that can furnish you with a spare part in every purchase or when you call for one. This way, you can cut down on unnecessary machine downtime.

5. Warranty - Lastly, pick a manufacturer that can give the best possible warranty for every end mill that you purchase. A 12-month warranty is the industry standard nowadays and this assures a sizeable period of free support like replacements and preventive maintenance for your end mills. And if the company offers something longer than that, that would be the better option. The point here is that you have to inquire about warranty periods when looking for an end mill provider.

The Best Possible Choice

One look at the factors above and you might think that looking for the best end mill manufacturer is going to be a daunting task. The truth, fortunately, is quite the opposite. A company like TensileMill CNC has the qualities that you are looking for in a dependable provider of end-mill-related solutions.

TensileMill CNC, Inc.

Each of their products passes through rigorous tests to ensure that they are capable of performing at optimal levels for as long as possible. Furthermore, warranties and post-purchase services are offered to ensure that every investment you make with the company will be worth every penny. If you are looking for top-quality manufacturer of tensile preparation equipment, all you have to do is to contact them as soon as possible.

Growing a business can be a challenging endeavor, especially for entrepreneurs entering a crowded market with large, well-established competitors already in place.

As the manufacturing industry experiences shifts in how it operates, how can CNC machining businesses secure contracts and grow within the industry despite today's challenging obstacles?

It's a good question, and we're here to help answer it — take a look at our tips and suggestions for small CNC machine shops to continue growing their businesses in an ever-crowding market.

1. Develop Partnerships

For many machine shop owners, the early days can be an uncertain time in which numerous concerns, such as volume expectations, client lists, or even floor plans, have yet to be resolved.

In these circumstances, existing friendships and business connections can be valuable assets.

Whether having friends steer clients in your direction, enter into partnerships, or simply provide advice on business practices, relying on your current connections can give you a useful leg-up.

Many also build their network through industry events and webinars.

2. Target Your Segment of the Marketplace

It is generally a good practice to focus on the specific types of purchasers that will buy your products at the best volume rate.

For example, if your shop specializes in producing gear shafts with a diameter under five inches, try to establish relationships with companies that purchase this product at a rate favorable to your production cycle and turnover. 

Targeting your market niche will help you make the best use of your specialty, like only in replacement parts. Some CNC companies see this as a very successful model for what may seem like a limited market. As you grow your company, you can diversify into other markets.

Link to YaoTai technology

Another marketing method is leveraging emerging technologies such as the internet, videos and social networking which can help improve your shop's visibility online and reach more buyers.

Don't forget to share videos touring your shop floor — you can have a video created by Thomas for free with an advertising program to help prospects get a look at your operation. (Take a look at the example below!)

3. Diversify According to Demand

While it’s sometimes a bad idea to take on a job outside the capabilities of your shop when you're just starting, new projects that seem within reach and will provide a cost-efficient result can be a helpful way to diversify your operations.

If, for example, a lathing shop has the training and funds to undertake a profitable milling or plastic fabrication contract, then the resulting diversity can help provide sustainable growth even during periods when one sector of the market is on a downswing. 

4. Don’t Rush to Expand

Purchasing machines that are not yet cost-efficient or enlarging facilities without the staff needed to maintain them can slow down business growth and hinder long-term expansion.

In many cases, it may be better to concentrate on making steady gains rather than giant leaps forward, as even a small shop with fewer than a dozen machines or employees can still meet or exceed the national productivity average.

It's important to also communicate your growth plans — even the small ones — to your entire team.

5. Remain Open to New Technology

Although new technical innovations can be costly in terms of additional training and initial set-up, recently-developed equipment may have a positive long-term effect by simplifying production methods or providing the means to accomplish tasks that were once considered impractical.

New technology can sometimes help a business remain competitive, especially if the innovation gains widespread notice.

???? Thomas Tip: CNC machining companies can see how their online presence compares with competitors by requesting a free digital health check.

Shop owners might want to consider purchasing more manufacturing equipment to fulfill existing and future orders. This can be a difficult decision to make, as future growth isn't guaranteed and buying equipment has many upfront costs. On the positive side, however, new machinery equipment will increase production capacity and improve cycle times, which will, in turn, create more opportunities for your business.

Business owners must weigh the risks versus the rewards — and again, communicate your efforts to your team accordingly.

If investing in new machinery isn't an option, see if you can modify and update your current equipment. This approach requires a much lower investment than purchasing new items, but it can still improve your production capacity and cycle speeds. 

6. React To Your Competition

Being aware of your main competitors is a valuable practice under most circumstances, particularly in times of economic volatility.

Market fluctuations can cause a slowdown in commercial manufacturing, while leaving military production relatively unchanged (and vice-versa).

In this case, competitors from one side of the spectrum may bring their operating standards to the other, forcing companies to accelerate their production rates or lower prices to maintain market share.

7. Invest in Digital Marketing Efforts

Another growth method is leveraging digital marketing efforts such as emails, videos and social networking which can help improve your shop's visibility online and reach more buyers.

Keeping your customer base happy is key to building your business, but being online is the golden ticket if you want to attract more customers.

Begin by building on what you currently have and talk to existing customers about what could be better. This feedback will help you learn about their challenges and how you can create resources to address their concerns.

What type of content do they consume? What are their jobs to be done? Publish this information on a high-quality website to attract new customers. Organize the content into an "Examples of Work" or "Markets Served" section on your website, like the CNC machining website example seen below.

8. Be Flexible in Multi-Stage Processes

Companies that combine both internal fabrication and machining operations can often save time or money by acquiring equipment that incorporates secondary work into its primary function.

For example, using a cutting laser can often reduce the need for post-fabrication finishing, such as smoothing or evening edges.

9. Integrate Your Operations

While vertical or horizontal integration is beyond the reach of many small CNC businesses, it may still help bring as much of the manufacturing process in-house as you can.

Streamlining measures, such as organizing a production schedule around a machine shop’s in-house capabilities or prioritizing jobs based on your own production center rather than an external supplier’s availability, can help smooth workflow and ultimately improve output.

10. Initiate Scalable Growth

In many cases,successful business growth is not dependent on the size of the products being manufactured, but on the depth of the fabricating process.

It can be beneficial to evaluate the services or products you provide to your customers, and see if you can expand the reach of those services. I you produce steel tubing for your purchasers, see if you can also provide them with the fasteners used to join these components together. Securing more expansive contracts from existing relationships can be a secure and scalable method of growth.

Whatever your growth plan is, skipping a business plan is a common mistake industrial businesses make. Create a plan that documents what milestones you should be hitting and the steps to reach them. This will also help you as you apply for small business loans, grants, or other crowdfunding campaigns.

➡️ See our free business plan template to get started.

11. Step-by-Step Value Addition

CNC machining is essentially a multi-staged process in which there is the potential for value-added work at each stage.

Consequently, a shop’s potential for expanding its business largely depends on how many of those value-added steps it can perform. A small business seeking to expand can evaluate its manufacturing strengths and take advantage of any opportunity to insert itself into a value-added production stage.

This approach, coupled with gradual service integration and streamlining, can be a valuable way to expand your small CNC business.

12. Warehousing 

Equipment isn't the only part of the physical shop floor that needs to be changed if you're expanding your business.

Storage facilities and warehouses should also be considered once you grow to accommodate additional production.

This year, warehousing demand has been ramping up so be sure to plan accordingly. If adding on to your current shop floor isn't an option, off-site warehousing might be the way to go. 

Final Thoughts: Increase Sales In Your CNC Machine Shop

Now is the time for shop owners to do all they can to manage and maximize their growth. The good news is that no matter how small your industrial business, digital efforts have been proven to grow businesses.

Not ready to make the call yet? Check out the additional resources below to help get more CNC machining contracts:

1. It's not rare to see a job shop fail — check out real advice from real job shop owners on the biggest mistakes to avoid. 

2. Thinking of expanding your business into profitable markets? Check out our blog How To Market Online To Buyers In The Defense Industry

2. Small business manufacturers who advertise their business on Thomasnet.com receive more online RFQs. It's free to sign up — create your free Thomasnet.com profile here. 

3. Planning your marketing budget? Read this eBook to learn 10 ways manufacturers effectively spend their marketing budget and where you should allocate yours to increase sales.

4. Learn how small manufacturer USTEK used online advertising to grow their business (37 new RFQs in less than 18 months) in their case study here.

Are you interested in learning more about AB cnc parts? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!