What is the function of an end mill in CNC machining?

The function of an end mill in CNC machining primarily involves cutting material using rotary motion. End mills are designed with multiple cutting edges arranged in such a way that they can effectively remove material from a workpiece. The rotary motion allows the tool to engage with the material at various angles and depths, facilitating various milling operations. This capability is essential for shaping, slotting, and contouring parts in diverse machining tasks.

End mills are versatile tools that can be used for both roughing and finishing operations, making them a fundamental component in CNC machining environments. Their design, often featuring flutes and a cutting edge, allows them to efficiently chip away material, which is crucial for creating complex geometries and maintaining precise tolerances in machined components.

Other options do not accurately reflect the primary function of an end mill. For instance, while supporting the material during cutting is important, it is typically handled by the machine's workholding fixtures rather than the end mill itself. Additionally, measuring dimensions and finishing components with high precision may involve other tools or processes better suited for those specific tasks.