The Advantages of Thread Milling: Why You Should Consider It

Thread milling is a dependable and efficient way for metalworkers to cut threads into holes on a workpiece. It differs from thread tapping—which accomplishes the same task—because of its greater flexibility and finish quality. But what makes thread mills a better choice for metalworkers? Discover the advantages of thread milling and why you should consider it for your machine shop operations.
You Gain a Versatile Tool for Numerous Projects
Thread milling offers greater flexibility than tapping. Thread taps are efficient, but each tap can only create a singular thread size and type. Thread mill bits, on the other hand, can meet the needs of a wider set of applications. You can use the same thread mill bit for internal and external threads or left-hand and right-hand threads. As long as the thread matches the bit’s pitch, you can use a thread mill for it. Moreover, thread milling allows for custom thread designs without the need for designing and manufacturing custom taps.
You’ll See Improved Thread Quality
Quality is perhaps the most important advantage of thread milling, which is why you should consider it for your operations. Thread mills are better than thread taps at moving chips and debris away from the piece as you work. Without debris getting in the way, you can create a cleaner, smoother, and more precise cut. Better chip evacuation creates better tolerance and angle. Most importantly, it achieves a finer surface finish for the thread.
You Can Handle Stronger Metals
The same superior cutting qualities that give thread milling operations a better surface finish also make it easier to work with difficult materials. Thread mills are more successful against workpieces that feature stronger metals like hardened steel or titanium. These materials are difficult to work with when you use thread taps or other metal cutting tools, but thread mills navigate them with ease and efficiency. This allows you to work with a wider variety of pieces in your machine shop without sacrificing the quality or reliability of your work.