SSOBOM Endmill Master Class

Selection & Optimization Guide for Tungsten Carbide Endmills for CNC Router & Trimmer Users

01. Spiral vs. Straight Bit Analysis

Modern Standard

Spiral Bit

Features a twisted "spiral" flute similar to a drill bit. It is the core essential for professional woodworking.

Operation: Continuous contact with the material for smooth cutting action.
Advantages: Clean finish, low vibration, easy plunge cutting, superior chip evacuation.
Applications: Mortising, Dadoes, profiling, and versatile general use.
Economic Alternative

Straight Bit

The classical form with vertical flutes. Ideal for rough work due to its affordability.

Operation: "Hitting" action that strikes the material repeatedly while cutting.
Advantages: Low cost, easy re-sharpening, wide range of sizes, suitable for manual tools.
Disadvantages: Rough surface (low finish), weak at corners, high noise and load.

Technical Difference: Relief Angle

The biggest difference between standard metalworking endmills and SSOBOM Woodworking Spiral Bits is the Relief Angle. To achieve clean cuts in soft materials like wood, our bits are designed with a much larger relief angle to prevent burning and ensure chips don't stick to the tool.

Furthermore, 1-flute (Single) or 2-flute (Double) bits are primarily used in woodworking to provide ample space for sawdust evacuation. 3 to 4-flute bits often lead to clogging and increased friction, which frequently burns the material.

02. Upcut · Downcut · Compression

Upcut Bit

  • Chips evacuated upward (Low load)
  • Bottom surface is exceptionally clean
  • May fray top surface; watch for material lifting
  • Best for: Mortising, deep hole cutting

Downcut Bit

  • Chips pushed downward (Holds material)
  • Top surface is clean with no fraying
  • Requires chip removal mid-process; frays bottom
  • Best for: Dadoes, shallow grooves, surface work

Compression Bit

Up & Down Cut

"Clean finish on both Top and Bottom!"

A hybrid bit combining the advantages of both Upcut and Downcut. It pushes chips toward the center, ensuring no fraying on either the top or bottom edges of the material. It's the most advanced endmill that drastically reduces post-processing time.

✅ Essential for Laminates ✅ Optimized for MDF & Plywood ✅ Minimizes sanding/finishing ✅ Top Expert Recommendation

03. Practical Guide & Pro Tips

Terminology & Tasks

Mortising

Creating vertical holes/slots to join wood. Upcut bits are best for chip evacuation.

Dadoes / Plunge

Wide and shallow grooves. Downcut bits ensure a clean top finish.

Selection Guide (T = Thickness)

  • Below 10T: +-3~4mm Shank recommended
  • Above 10T: +-5~6mm Shank recommended
  • Cost-effective: Straight Bit
  • Quality focused: Compression Bit