Mechanical Engineer Mock Interview
Master 37 Mechanical Engineer interview questions covering thermodynamics, CAD proficiency, and design problem-solving.
Question 32 of 37
What is the difference between an end-mill and a drill-bit?
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Jason is a freelance mechanical engineer specializing in 3D Printing and CNC Machining.
This is a common question to gauge a candidate's familiarity with machine shop equipment. Specifically, the milling machine, which is one of the most ubiquitous examples of machining equipment. An end-mill is a general term for a milling tool, and it differs from a drill-bit in its ability to cut in the radial direction and not just axially. The term 'end-mill' comes from the way the tool often ends in a flat, unlike drill bits which taper to points that allow them to bore into material more easily. Some end-mills are center cutting, which allows them to plunge into material like a drill-bit in addition to radial cutting.
Jason is a freelance mechanical engineer specializing in 3D Printing and CNC Machining.
"The main difference is that end-mills are able to cut in the radial direction, whereas drill-bits are only able to plunge in the axial direction. I know that some end-mills can also plunge into material like a drill-bit, which would be called center cutting. However, I think drill-bits are a better fit for starting a hole, as they have a tapered tip that allows them to penetrate material. I also know that the vibration of endmills is important to consider, as they can break if too much stress is applied during a machining operation."
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