Cut to the chase: Must-have features of cutting tools

Cutting tools are designed to remove workpiece material — typically metal — using one or more cutting edges. They are either single-point tools, such as turning and boring tools, or multi-point tools, like end mills and drill bits. 

Tool geometry and cutter material are arguably the most important features of cutting tools and should be considered based on the tool’s specific task and the material being cut. The tool’s cutting edge must be harder than the workpiece material, it should be able to reasonably withstand high temperatures, and it should have an acceptable level of wear resistance. These three factors should be considered to achieve maximum productivity, extended tool life and monetary savings. High-speed steel is a standard cutter material because of its relative low cost in addition to toughness and hardness factors.

Other important characteristics of cutting tools are the number and design of the tool’s flutes, and whether the tool is designed for linear or rotary motion. Linear tools include broaches, while countersinks and counterbores are examples of rotary cutting tools.

Motion Industries is a distributor of quality products and services to 150,000 government and industrial customers in North America. The company operates in the MRO (maintenance repair and operating) replacement parts market, as well as the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) market. Cutting tools are among its product offerings. 

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