If you are looking to increase the versatility and flexibility of your three-axis machine tools, adding angle heads into the mix could be a viable solution.

Angle heads give you the ability to perform machining tasks on horizontal and angled planes without moving the workpiece. Leaving the workpiece in place can prevent errors and significantly reduce production times.

Identifying the right angle head for any machining job can be challenging. Use these tips to help ensure you are using the right angle heads in the future.

1. Identify the Right Angle Head Style

Modern angle heads come in two primary styles: milling and drilling. A milling angle head is designed to be stiffer than its drilling counterpart. This stiffness is needed to provide the angle head with the strength and durability required to perform most milling tasks.

Drilling angle heads feature a more compact design. This allows them to fit into small cavities when necessary. It's possible to do some light-duty milling tasks with a drilling angle head, but this could significantly reduce the overall lifespan of the angle head itself.

2. Select an Angle Head Size

Angle heads are manufactured in a wide range of sizes. A good rule of thumb to follow is to use the largest head size that will fit into the cavity or bore you are trying to access.

Larger angle heads tend to have larger bearings, which makes them more durable over time.

You will need to factor in both the minimum bore size and maximum tool clearance ratings of each angle head before determining which size will work best with your three-axis machining tools.

3. Identify the Best Shank

Once you have decided on the style and size of your angle head, you will need to determine which type of shank should be featured on the angle head you will use for your machining tasks.

Your shank options will be limited by the type of tool holder that will fit your three-axis machining tools.

If you have an endmill holder attached to the existing tool holder on your machine, you may be able to invest in an angle head with a straight shank that fits snugly into this endmill holder.

The design of your angle head's shank must be compatible with your machining tools, or you will be unable to utilize the angle head properly.

Selecting the right angle head is critical when you are trying to improve the performance of your three-axis machining tools.