Measuring cutters
Due to the manufacturing processes the actual dimension of a cutter can be slightly different from the nominal size.
If you want to use the actual tool size in toolpath generation in a CAD/CAM system, you need to measure the diameter of the cutter.
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New cutters normally measure under the specified nominal dimension. Used cutters will measure under the nominal dimension because of wear. |
The method shown here works best with 2 or 4 flute cylindrical cutters. Others can be more difficult to measure
You will need to use a micrometer or a set of calipers
Take a measurement across 2 points on opposing flutes. Make sure you align the cutter between measurement faces of the anvil and the spindle of the micrometer.
