In the field of mechanical processing, the choice of thread milling cutter directly affects processing efficiency, thread accuracy and tool life. Full-thread milling cutter, single-threadmilling cutter and three-thread milling cutters correspond to different processing requirements due to their structural differences. This article analyzes the core characteristics and applicable scenarios of the three types of cutters from a practical perspective to help you accurately select and improve production efficiency.
1. Core elements of thread milling cutter selection
Before comparing full-thread, single-thread and three-thread, the following key parameters need to be clarified: Processing materials: Stainless steel, aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, etc. have significant hardness differences Thread type: Metric thread, American thread, pipe thread and other specifications Processing depth: Shallow hole (≤3 times the diameter) or deep hole (＞5 times the diameter) Production batch: Single-piece trial production or batch processing
2. Performance comparison of full-thread/single-thread/three-thread milling cutters
| Type | Structural characteristics | Advantage scenarios | Limitations |
| Full-thread | The blade covers the entire thread profile | Through hole processing, efficient forming of short threads | Weak rigidity, easy to vibrate |
| Single-thread | Single-tooth cutting, progressive processing | Deep hole thread, high-hardness material precision processing | Low efficiency, long time consumption |
| Three-thread | Three-tooth alternating cutting | General scenario that takes into account efficiency and stability | Not suitable for ultra-fine thread |
3. Typical use scenarios of the three types of milling cutters
3.1. Full-thread milling cutter: a powerful tool for batch processing of short threads
Applicable working conditions: Thread depth ≤ 3 times the tool diameter (e.g., M6×1 thread processing depth ≤ 18mm) Through-hole thread processing of soft materials such as aluminum alloy and copper Fast production (full-thread forming is completed in a single pass) Case description: An automobile parts factory processes M8×1.25 aluminum alloy housing threads. The use of full-thread milling cutters reduces the single-piece working time from 45 seconds to 22 seconds, and the tool life reaches 2000 holes.
3.2. Single-thread milling cutter: a special solution for deep holes & hard materials
Core value: Deep hole processing (e.g., oil drill pipe M30×3.5 thread, depth 150mm) Difficult-to-cut materials such as stainless steel (304/316) and titanium alloy High precision requirements (tolerance below IT6 level) Operation skills: Use spiral interpolation + layered cutting strategy, feed amount per layer ≤ 0.1mm, coolant pressure ≥ 70Bar
3.3. Three-tooth milling cutter: a balanced choice for general scenarios
Best match: Medium-depth threads (3-5 times the diameter) of blind holes/through holes Batch processing of common materials such as carbon steel and cast iron Balance between efficiency and surface roughness (Ra≤3.2μm) Parameter recommendations: Spindle speed = 20000/D (D is the tool diameter, unit mm), feed rate is calculated as 0.05mm/tooth.
4. Selection decision flow chart
4.1Judge the processing depth → Select single thread for deep holes, and full thread for short holes
4.2Analyze the material hardness → Single thread is preferred for hardness＞HRC35
4.3Evaluate production demand → Select full thread/three threads for large batches, and select single thread for trial production
4.4Verify the rigidity of the machine tool → Avoid full thread milling cutters for low rigidity equipment
The selection of thread milling cutters is essentially a balance between efficiency, precision, and cost. Full thread milling cutters are known for their speed, single thread milling cutters focus on precision processing, and three thread milling cutters are a reliable choice for general scenarios. Mastering the selection logic and parameter comparison table in this article can reduce the trial and error cost by more than 50%.
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