Scientific Cutting Tools TM170-28A Thread Mill 1/4-28

Product Description

The SCIENTIFIC CUTTING TOOLS TM170-28A is a straight flute thread mill designed for cutting internal UNF threads at 1/4-28 (28 teeth per inch). Built from submicron-grade solid carbide and finished with an AlTiN+ coating, it delivers consistent thread geometry and extended tool life in ferrous and hard materials. The cutter features three flutes, a 0.17 inch cutting diameter, and a 0.552 inch length of cut. Overall length is 2.5 inches with a 1/4 inch straight shank. This tool is installed by machinists and tool-and-die professionals working on CNC machining centers.

The TM170-28A is suited for internal thread milling operations in precision machined components where single-point threading or tapping is not practical. Typical applications include aerospace, automotive, and industrial manufacturing where UNF 1/4-28 internal threads are required in ferrous alloys, stainless steel, hardened materials, or difficult-to-machine metals. The straight flute geometry and AlTiN+ coating help maintain dimensional accuracy across production runs. A minimum bore diameter of 1/4 inch is required for this tool to engage properly.

Key Features

• Cuts 1/4-28 UNF internal threads at 28 TPI with straight flute geometry
• Submicron-grade solid carbide construction for rigidity and wear resistance
• AlTiN+ coating provides thermal protection in high-speed dry or semi-dry cutting
• Three-flute design balances chip evacuation with cutting stability
• 0.17 inch cutting diameter with 0.552 inch length of cut for shallow-to-moderate thread depths
• No coolant-through requirement simplifies setup on standard CNC tooling

Compatibility

Designed for CNC machining centers capable of helical interpolation; requires a minimum nominal bore diameter of 1/4 inch for proper thread engagement on UNF 1/4-28 internal thread applications.

Installation Notes

Thread milling requires a CNC control capable of helical interpolation - verify program compatibility before setup. Secure the 1/4 inch shank in a collet or end mill holder with appropriate runout tolerance to protect thread quality. Follow the tool manufacturer's recommended speeds and feeds for the workpiece material and coating type. Inspect flute condition before each use; solid carbide tooling is brittle and should not be used in machines with excessive spindle runout.