Which material is commonly used for milling cutting tools?

High-speed steel (HSS) and carbide are commonly used materials for milling cutting tools due to their outstanding hardness and wear resistance. HSS remains a popular choice because it maintains sharpness at elevated temperatures, making it effective for cutting various metals. It is versatile and can be used for a wide array of milling operations.

Carbide, on the other hand, is even harder than HSS and is especially suitable for high-speed machining. It can withstand higher temperatures and pressures, making it ideal for cutting tougher materials or for applications requiring high precision and longevity.

Other materials like aluminum and plastic do not possess the necessary hardness or durability needed for tools that must cut through various metals and hard materials. Bronze, while useful in some applications, lacks the rigidity and wear resistance required for effective milling operations. This makes HSS and carbide the optimal choices for manufacturing cutting tools used in milling processes.