Osg VGM3-0018 Square End Mill 3/8 in 3 Flute Solid Carbide

Product Description

The OSG VGM3-0018 is a 3-flute solid carbide square end mill designed for high-performance milling in aluminum and non-ferrous materials. Part of the VGM3-AL series, it features a variable index flute geometry with helix angles of 40, 41, 42, and 43 degrees to reduce harmonic vibration and improve surface finish during aggressive cuts. The mill diameter is 0.3750 inches with a tolerance of +0 / -0.0004 inches, and the shank diameter is 3/8 inch held to an h6 tolerance for precise tool-holder fit. A bright, uncoated finish makes it well-suited to aluminum where coatings can cause material adhesion. Centercutting capability allows plunge entry. Licensed machinists and CNC programmers typically specify this tool for finish and semi-finish passes in production environments.

The VGM3-0018 is intended for milling aluminum, soft metals, and similar non-ferrous materials where chip evacuation and surface finish are priorities. The variable index and variable helix design suppress chatter at higher spindle speeds and feed rates, making it appropriate for high-speed machining centers and VMCs running aluminum aerospace or general-purpose components. The regular-length profile and straight cylindrical shank allow use in standard ER collet chucks, hydraulic chucks, and shrink-fit holders without extended-reach adapters.

Key Features

• Variable index flute geometry with 40, 41, 42, and 43 degree helix angles reduces harmonic vibration and chatter
• 3-flute solid carbide construction balances chip clearance and core strength for aluminum milling
• Centercutting design permits direct plunge entry without pre-drilled pilot holes
• Bright finish optimized for non-ferrous materials to prevent built-up edge
• Shank diameter held to h6 tolerance for consistent runout in precision tool holders
• Right-hand cut, right-hand flute orientation for standard spindle operation

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style solid carbide end mill for use in standard 3/8 inch tool holders on CNC machining centers and manual mills capable of accepting straight cylindrical shanks.

Installation Notes

Installation should be performed by a qualified machinist or tooling technician. Ensure the spindle is fully stopped and the machine is in a locked-out, energy-isolated state before changing tooling. Seat the shank to the minimum recommended engagement depth for the holder type in use, and verify runout with a dial indicator before beginning cuts. Do not exceed the tool manufacturer-recommended speeds and feeds for the material being machined.