T-slot cutting is a specialized method for cutting slots in the ‘T’ shape. With an adequately stiff arbor and overhang, a horizontal milling machine can create highly accurate slots. It is a stable cutting method that can bear cutting forces and vibrations. In this method, a side milling tool performs the cutting, where the cutting is performed primarily by the periphery of the tool. Side milling is another technique for creating slots. Moreover, special endmill designs can also suppress chatter vibrations and improve surface finish. They can withstand high cutting forces and cut deep. The difference is that the purpose of slotting is to create a groove, closed on both ends, while face milling is meant to flatten the surface of the workpiece.Īs endmills come in a variety of sizes and materials, slot machining with endmills is the most preferable method for machinists. The process is like face milling, where the cutting is performed by both the side and face of the tool. It is a versatile slot cutting tool that can produce closed slots, non-linear slot profiles, and even slots with variable depths. End MillingĮnd milling is performed with a standard endmill cutter or a shell mill. Each type has specific groove cutters and requirements. There are numerous slot milling techniques for different geometries, machine tools, and applications.
