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TechTalk

What Is the Best Thread Milling Software For My Business?

Thread mills are necessary for countless intricate projects. These machines cut both external and internal threads and are helpful when threading soft alloys and exotic materials. Thread milling software is required for thread milling operations and functions in a CNC machine. Many of these programs are available for little or no cost, and many refer to them as "advisors" or "program generators."

The best thread milling machine is useless without the correct software to guide it. However, it's not as simple as picking the most expensive program. Selecting the proper tools and software help to reduce waste and improve productivity for your business or project. Before choosing your software, you must consider the following:

Thread Milling vs. Tapping

Both thread milling and tapping cut holes in CNC machined components. Because each method has its advantages and disadvantages, engineers need to understand the differences when comparing the two. While tapping is the traditional method of creating a threaded hole, either technique will produce a precisely machined hole to match a particular screw or bolt.

The Tapping method uses a thread cutting tool known as tap that rotates just like a regular drill bit to cut the internal thread of a drilled hole. This process can be done by hand or through the use of power tools. Its advantages include speed and efficiency while working with the same size hole, but manufacturers must use different taps for different size holes, and the process is known as prone to breakage.

Thread milling cuts both internal and external threads. Rather than spinning the tool, like tapping, it uses a CNC machine to rotate the tool in a corkscrew, or spiral, pattern. The advantages of thread milling include:

• Accuracy and precision.
• The ability to create interior and exterior trends.
• Flexibility regarding sizes and pitch.
• The ability to produce high-quality components.

However, this process does require more time while machining.

Helical Flute Thread Mill

While thread milling often produces a higher-quality product than tapping, there are a few unique threads that you should be familiar with as you determine which software to use. For example, spiral flute thread mills resemble the shape of a corkscrew. These threads are often used in high-speed applications and are ideal for projects that require a smooth finish. Helical flute thread mills are suitable for both tough materials and those that are thin-walled.

Straight Flute Thread Mill

Straight flute thread mills are suitable for any standard threading application. On each face of the mill, there is a one tooth per thread design. This design makes straight flute thread mills ideal for fast-cutting operations. Straight flute thread mills are also better suited to use with more robust materials.

Single Profile Thread Mill

Single profile thread mills look different than the mills described above. These mills include a straight, rod-shaped body with a face that resembles a star. Manufacturers use them for both internal and external milling. Single profile thread mills are best used for lower speed applications, as they provide more control in cutting and the finish. They can create threads with varying diameters, lengths, and pitch ranges.

Thread Mill CNC Software

Choosing the right thread milling software for your business is essential to creating a highly productive operation and reducing waste. Optimal CNC thread milling programs, like Guhring and SmiProg, only require a few steps to ensure they produce the correct instructions for your project. These steps often necessitate knowledge on topics such as:

• Thread data
• The material that you are threading
• Required thread mill
• Milling strategy
• Control system data

Thread milling programs that use this information are often the most helpful and accurate. Based on your inputs, they provide data regarding suitable thread milling tools, the time required to complete operations, and other useful information such as videos, line drawings, and part numbers. Ultimately, the software you choose should save you time and optimize your operation's productivity.

If you have any questions about carbide cutting tools or taps,  be sure to reach out to us @ sctools.co/Home or call us at (877)737-0987. We help you machine better!