The Next Era of Performance and Versatile End Mills has arrived: Data Flute's SSI-5plus & SSI-7

As machine shops seek precision, tool life, and versatility in a wide variety of materials,
the SSI-5plus and SSI-7 have emerged as the performance leader in a lot of categories!

written and edited by ​Bernard Martin

Dataflute introduces SS-5plus and SS-7 End Mills

Data Flute, the renowned end mill manufacturer who pioneered the adoption of the 3 and 5 flute end mills for stainless steel and exotic alloys nearly 30 years ago, has recently introduced two new groundbreaking end mills— the SSI-5plus and SSI-7. These cutting-edge tools are designed to set the standard for versatility and performance in (P)steel, (H)hardened steels, (M)stainless steels, (S)super alloys and even (K)cast iron. 

The SSI-5plus End Mill

For many years the SSI-5 has been the mainstay of Datflute's  variably indexed, ferrous alloy rougher/finisher. It's truly the all-terrain vehicle of their ferrous alloy series.

Now, Datflute has updated the already impressive SSI-5 with a new, advanced substrate, formerly only offered in their SSI-7 series, an even higher-performance coating and field tested micro-geometry. The result is a tool that provides outstanding cutting performance and substantially greater tool life.
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The SSI-5plus will appeal to machinists who demand high performance endmills, but seek to minimize tool changes, or tool inventory, over a wider range of milling operations. This offering mirrors the SSI-5 with regard to diameters, lengths of cut, overall lengths and radii offered. Dataflute is transitioning their 5 flute, variably indexed, ferrous alloy rougher/finisher from the SSI-5 to the SSI-5plus.

SSI-5 plus vs Leading Competitors. All Tool life results are from accelerated wear test.

With five flutes featuring an unequal index and a variable helix, this end mill is designed to optimize chip evacuation and reduce cutting forces, ensuring efficiency in a variety of machining scenarios. The SS-5plus is a non-center cutting tool available in both RH-C and RH-H configurations, with a continuous cutting edge for seamless performance.

The tool adheres to strict tolerances, featuring a shank diameter held to h5 specifications, while the cutting diameter boasts precision within -0.001"/-0.002". The corner radius is equally refined, offering +0.001"/-0.001". Whether used for roughing or finishing, the SS-5plus from Data Flute delivers exceptional results, promising machinists a combination of accuracy, versatility, and reliability in their machining endeavors.

SSI-7 End Mill

Data Flute unveils the SS-7 end mill, a cutting-edge solution designed for high-efficiency machining in ferrous alloys. This finisher showcases a new carbide substrate, ensuring superior durability and outstanding tool life, even in demanding applications.

Engineered with specific geometry tailored for titanium alloys and stainless steels, the SS-7 features seven flutes with an unequal index and a constant helix, promoting efficient chip evacuation and reduced cutting forces.

This non-center cutting tool, available in both RH-C and RH-H configurations, boasts a continuous cutting edge for seamless machining.

The SS-7 end mill sets a standard with its tight tolerances, including a shank diameter held to h5 specifications and a cutting diameter precision within -0.001"/-0.002". The corner radius further enhances precision, offering +0.001"/-0.001". Machinists can expect not only high efficiency but also superior surface finishes, making the SS-7 a standout choice for those seeking precision, longevity, and exceptional performance in ferrous alloy applications.

Tech spec overview

• Material Composition - SS-5plus ​ and SS-7 end mills are crafted from high-quality micro-grain carbide, ensuring exceptional durability and resistance to wear.
• Geometry and Flute Design - The  SS-5plus features a unique 5-flute design, providing increased stability and reduced vibrations during cutting operations. The SS-7, with its 7-flute configuration, is engineered for high-speed machining, delivering efficient chip evacuation and improved surface finish.
• Coating Technology - Both end mills come equipped with advanced coating technologies such as TiALN (Titanium Aluminum Nitride) or TiCN (Titanium CarboNitride), enhancing tool life and facilitating high-speed machining applications.
• Cutting Parameters - The SS-5plus and SS-7 are optimized for a wide range of materials, including steels, stainless steels, and exotic alloys, showcasing versatility in machining operations.

These end mills exhibit exceptional performance in applications such as slotting, roughing, and finishing, making them suitable for various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and mold and die.

A Leap FOrward

Data Flute's SSI-5plus and SSI-7 end mills signify a significant leap forward in cutting tool technology. With their meticulous design, superior materials, and advanced coating technologies, these end mills are poised to meet the diverse needs of modern machining processes. As machinists seek precision, tool life, and versatility in materials, the SSI-5plus and SSI-7 emerge as compelling choices, ready to cut their place in the new era of cutting tools.