Slot Cutters

Slot cutters are a cutting tool used to perform bore milling operations, here at Cromwell we supplier a range of face and slot mill cutters from supplier Dormer.

What are slot cutters?

Slot cutters also known as side mill cutters or face mill cutters are a disc shaped mill cutter that has cutting teeth on the circumference of both the side and the disc. It is traditionally used to mill groves and slots into materials.

Why slot cutters?

Due to the vast number of teeth on the mill cutter disc, the milling cutters are able to achieve faster feed rates. The face and side mill cutters get their name as they are designed to simultaneously cut the face and side walls at the same time.

When are slot cutters used?

Side mill cutters are mainly used in straddle milling operations and to cut slots and grooves. Face mill cutters tend to be used in down milling - as it is a rigid. The number or teeth and will directly affect the overall finish.

Slot cutter types

• Side mill cutter  -   This cutter type has cutting teeth on the periphery but also on the face and end.

• Face mill cutter  -   This cutter type has a cutter body with a large diameter that can hold many mechanically inserted tools.

Considerations when choosing a slot cutter

• Blade diameter  -   The size of the face and side cutter diameter is available in various sizes to best suit your milling needs.

• Material  -   Side and face cutters are available in a range of materials this should be considered to meet your desired application.

Slot cutter jargon buster

We want to make it easier for you to shop our range of slot cutters, so we've outlined some key terminology below.

• TPI  -   This stands for 'Teeth per inch' and is a recognised standard in side and face slot cutters. The TPI relates to the number of teeth around the diameter cutter, which usually is a stated in a to and from range for example: 16 - 30TPI.

FAQs

Do all side and face cutter have the same shaped teeth?

No side and face cutters can have either have a regular shaped straight teeth or staggered teeth. The staggered shaped teeth tend to be used to prevent vibration or chatter.