Gws 101045 Square End Mill 1/4 in 3 Flute Solid Carbide Zrn

Product Description

The GWS 101045 is a 3-flute, solid carbide square end mill designed for high-performance milling in aluminum and non-ferrous materials. It features a ZrN (zirconium nitride) coating and a 37-degree helix angle, both optimized to reduce built-up edge and improve chip evacuation in soft, gummy alloys. The 0.25-inch cutting diameter and 0.375-inch length of cut make it well suited for shallow-to-moderate-depth slotting and profiling operations. At 2.5 inches overall length with a 0.25-inch shank, it mounts directly in standard collet and end mill holders. Machinists and CNC operators in job shops and production environments are the primary users of this tool.

This end mill is built for aluminum milling applications where chip clearance and surface finish are priorities. The upcut, right-hand flute geometry and right-hand cutting direction are standard for conventional CNC machining center setups. The submicron carbide grade provides the hardness and wear resistance needed for extended tool life in aluminum, brass, and similar non-ferrous workpieces. It is a single-end tool from the GWS Series 1025 Alumigator line, engineered specifically around aluminum cutting demands.

Key Features

• ZrN coating reduces friction and prevents aluminum adhesion on cutting edges
• 37-degree helix angle promotes aggressive chip evacuation in soft metals
• 3-flute geometry balances chip clearance with surface finish quality
• Submicron solid carbide grade delivers consistent edge sharpness and wear resistance
• Center-cutting design allows plunge entry as well as peripheral milling
• Right-hand cut and right-hand flute direction for standard CNC spindle compatibility

Compatibility

Designed for use in standard 0.25-inch collet chucks, shrink-fit holders, and end mill holders on CNC machining centers and manual milling machines. Part of the GWS Series 1025 Alumigator product line, optimized for aluminum and non-ferrous milling applications.

Installation Notes

Installation is performed by qualified machinists or CNC setup technicians. Ensure the machine spindle is fully stopped and the control is in an E-stop or tool-change state before loading or unloading the tool. Seat the shank fully and evenly in the holder and torque the collet nut to the holder manufacturer's specification. Verify runout with a dial indicator before beginning a production cut, as excessive runout accelerates wear on small-diameter carbide tools.