M.a. Ford 138B50002 Ball End Mill 0.5 in 3 Flute Carbide

Product Description

The M.A. FORD 138B50002 is a solid carbide ball end mill designed for precision milling operations on non-ferrous metals. It features a 0.5 inch diameter with a 0.2500 inch nose radius, a 1.25 inch length of cut, and a 36-degree right-hand spiral helix. The 3-flute geometry promotes efficient chip evacuation and smooth surface finishes. With a 6 inch overall length and a 0.5 inch shank diameter held to h6 tolerance, this tool fits standard collet chucks and end mill holders used in CNC machining centers and manual mills. It is a single-end, uncoated tool from M.A. FORD Series 138B.

This end mill is suited for milling aluminum, copper, brass, and other non-ferrous materials in job shop, production, and tool-and-die environments. The 36-degree helix angle reduces cutting forces and promotes clean entry on contoured and 3D profiling passes. The regular-length designation makes it a practical choice for general-purpose slotting, profiling, and finishing operations where extended reach is not required. Machinists and CNC programmers running non-ferrous materials will find the uncoated carbide substrate appropriate for high-speed applications where coatings could introduce edge buildup concerns.

Key Features

• 0.5 inch mill diameter with +0.000 to -0.005 inch tolerance for close-tolerance work
• 3-flute right-hand spiral design optimized for non-ferrous metal stock removal and finishing
• 36-degree helix angle reduces cutting forces and improves surface finish on contoured passes
• 0.2500 inch nose radius for smooth ball-end profiling and 3D contouring
• Solid carbide construction provides rigidity and wear resistance at elevated cutting speeds
• 6 inch overall length with 0.5 inch h6-tolerance shank for secure toolholder engagement

Compatibility

Designed for use with standard 0.5 inch collet chucks, end mill holders, and shrink-fit toolholders on CNC machining centers and manual knee mills. Intended for primary use in non-ferrous metal applications per Series 138B specifications.

Installation Notes

Installation should be performed by a qualified machinist or CNC setup technician. Ensure the machine spindle is fully stopped and the control is in an e-stop or locked-out state before loading or removing the tool. Verify runout with a dial indicator after clamping, as excessive runout accelerates flute wear and reduces dimensional accuracy. Follow the toolholder manufacturer torque guidelines when tightening collet nuts or set screws.