Tech Tip: 45° vs 90° Face Milling
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a 45-degree Face Mill vs. a 90-degree Face Mill
To achieve greater productivity and problem-free milling, use a lead angle cutter whenever possible. Chip thickness is affected by the lead angle. The greater the lead angle, the greater the chip-thinning effect.
Lead Angle Thickness | Feed Per Tooth | Actual Chip |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | A | A |
| 45 | A | .707 x A |
| 0 | .010" | .010" |
| 45 | .010" | .070" x .010" = 0071" |
Advantages
- Well-balanced axial and radial cutting forces.
- Less breakout on workpiece corner.
- Entry shock is minimized.
- Less radial forces directed into the spindle bearings.
- Higher feed rates possible.
- Reduces chatter.
Disadvantages
- Reduced maximum depth of cut due to lead angle.
- Larger body diameter can cause fixture clearance problems.
- No 90-degree corner milling.
- Can cause chipping or burring on exit side of cutter rotation.