Scientific Cutting Tools TM170-20A Thread Mill 1/4-20

Product Description

The SCIENTIFIC CUTTING TOOLS TM170-20A is a straight flute thread mill designed for cutting internal 1/4-20 UNC threads in a single helical pass. Built from submicron-grade solid carbide and finished with an AlTiN+ coating, this tool delivers extended wear resistance and thermal stability in demanding machining environments. With a 0.17-inch cutting diameter, a 0.57-inch length of cut, and 3 straight flutes at 20 teeth per inch, it is sized for precise thread milling in small-diameter bores. Machinists, tool-and-die makers, and CNC operators in metalworking shops are the primary users of this tooling.

This thread mill is suited for machining internal 1/4-20 UNC threads in ferrous and non-ferrous materials where thread milling is preferred over tapping. It is intended for use in CNC machining centers capable of executing helical interpolation. With a 1/4-inch shank diameter and a 2.5-inch overall length, it fits standard 1/4-inch collet chucks and end mill holders. The straight flute geometry and submicron carbide substrate make it a practical choice for shops producing threaded features in hardened steels, stainless alloys, and other difficult-to-machine materials.

Key Features

• Submicron-grade solid carbide substrate for rigidity and wear resistance
• AlTiN+ coating provides thermal and oxidation resistance at elevated cutting temperatures
• Straight flute design with 3 flutes at 20 TPI for clean internal thread form
• 0.17-inch cutting diameter with 0.57-inch length of cut handles standard 1/4-20 bore depths
• 1/4-inch shank diameter fits common collet and end mill holder systems
• No coolant-through requirement simplifies setup on standard machining centers

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style thread milling solution for CNC machining centers capable of helical interpolation with a minimum nominal bore diameter of 1/4 inch and accommodating a 1/4-inch straight shank tool holder.

Installation Notes

Thread mills must be run in a CNC machining center programmed for helical interpolation; standard drill cycles are not applicable. Confirm spindle speed, feed rate, and helical pitch are set per the tool manufacturer's recommendations for the workpiece material before cutting. Secure the shank fully in a collet chuck or end mill holder and verify runout before initiating the program. Follow shop safety protocols for carbide tooling, including proper RPM limits and chip evacuation practices.