Abstract: A cutting insert for milling operations, such as, face milling, slot milling, plunge milling, and ramping operations. The cutting insert exhibits a combination of favorable cutting edge strength, and unique cutting edge geometry, thus, allowing milling operations at relatively high feed rates. The cutting insert includes at least four cutting edges, wherein at least one of the cutting edges is a convex cutting edge. Certain embodiments of square cutting inserts will have four convex cutting edges which may be connected by nose corners. The convex cutting edge may comprise at least one of a circular arc, a portion of an ellipse, a portion of a parabola, a multi-segment spline curve, a straight line, or combinations of these. Wherein the convex cutting edge comprises a circular arc, the circular arc may have a radius greater than or equal to two times a radius of the largest circle that may be inscribed on the top surface.

Abstract: A thread milling tool includes a proximal shank portion and a distal cutting portion. The cutting portion includes at least one thread milling tooth and at least one flute oriented helically, or spirally, about a rotational axis of the tool. The helix angle of the thread milling tool of at least 20°. The cutting portion may be configured to form internal or external threads in a workpiece as the cutting portion moves relative to the workpiece.

Abstract: A cutting tool or drill insert with chip control geometry comprising a body including a portion securable in a holder and a forward portion. The forward portion defining at least one cutting edge extending from the central axis of the body to an edge of the body. A chip groove is defined by the surface of the body adjacent to the cutting edge. The chip groove incorporates chip control geometry as spaced apart elongate projections.