Variable Geometry End Mills Add to Moldmaker’s Cutting Options

OSG USA Inc. has expanded its Hy-Pro Carb VGM line — a series of variable geometry end mills for dynamic milling — with the addition of the new VGM-NIK and VGM3-AL high-performance end mills.

VGM5-NIK and VGM7-NIK variable geometry nicked end mill options reduce vibration during machining and are said to maintain excellent cutting-edge sharpness and tool rigidity via their flute geometry. An EXO coating ensures long tool life, providing wear and heat resistance, while the end mills are capable of creating small, manageable chips while machining.

OSG’s VGM3-AL variable geometry end mill is more geared toward aluminum. In addition to the variable index and flute geometry benefits mentioned for the VGM-NIK line, VGM3-AL also enables center cutting — three cutting edges to the center make it ideal for plunging and ramping applications.

Generally, end mills are well suited for creating shapes and holes in a workpiece via milling, profiling, contouring, slotting, counterboring, drilling and more. This makes them valuable to moldmakers, where developing detailed and often complex molds with precision is paramount.