A cutting tool, also known as a cutter, is a wedge-shaped device that compresses the workpiece material during machining in order to shear away extra material and achieve the desired shape, size, and precision.
The fundamental difference between a single and a multi-point cutting tool is that a single-point cutting tool has only one main cutting edge, whereas a multi-point cutting tool has multiple cutting edges.
So, in order to properly understand, this article explains the basic differences between single-point and multi point cutting tool.
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Cutting Tool:
Cutting tools are categorised into three groups based on whether they have one or more major cutting edges:
A single-point cutting tool has only one primary cutting edge, a double-point cutting tool has two cutting edges, and a multi-point cutting tool has more than two main cutting edges, as the name implies.
The number of cutting edges in a cutter affects a variety of factors, including chip load, material removal rate, cutting force, and cost.
The next sections go through the differences between single-point and multi-point cutting tools.
Difference between single point and multipoint cutting tool-
Some key differences between these Tools are listed in the table below:
Single Point Cutting Tool | Multi-Point Cutting Tool |
In the cutter body of a single-point cutting tool, there is only one primary cutting edge. | The cutter body of multi-point cutting instruments contains many cutting edges. |
Only one main cutting edge remains in contact with the workpiece while milling with a single-point cutting tool. | In a process of machining with a multi-point cutting tool, more than one cutting edge engages in material removal activity. |
The average chip load per tooth is significant. | The effective chip load per tooth decreases due to the presence of several cutting edges. |
The rate of heat generation and subsequent rise in tool temperature because one cutting edge is in continuous contact with the workpiece. | When the cutter is not in contact with the workpiece, the heat evaporates due to consecutive contact and release. As a result, the rate of increase in tool temperature is slow. |
If a cutting edge breaks unexpectedly, the entire process must be suspended until the broken tool is replaced with a new one. | If one cutting edge breaks, the cutting process can be resumed with ease by utilising other cutting edges. |
Single point cutting tool design and production are easier. | Multi-point cutting tools are complex to design and manufacture. |
When machining using single-point cutting tools, a low feed rate and depth of cut are usually used. As a result, productivity and material removal rate decreases | When using a multi-point cutting tool for machining, a higher feed rate can be used. MRR and productivity both rise as a result of this. |
This one has a good surface quality in terms of precision. | The surface finish is boosted significantly with a multi-point cutting tool. |
Cutting with a single point is a low-cost method. | Multi-point cutting is a tool with a high price tag. |
The rate of tool wear is really high. | The rate of tool wear is quite low. |
Examples of single-point cutters:
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Examples of multi-point cutters:
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Final Thoughts-
These were some of the contrasts I made in this section, Difference between single point and multipoint cutting tool.
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You might be interested in learning more about the following related Articles:
Single Point Cutting Tool: Definition, Nomenclature, Advantages and Applications
Double Point Cutting Tool: Definition, Example, Advantages and More
Multi Point cutting Tool: Definition, Examples, Advantages and More
Advantages and Disadvantages of Multi-point Cutting Tool

Abhishek Tiwary is a blogger by passion and a Quality Engineer by profession. He completed his B.Tech degree in the year 2017. Now working in a reputed firm. He loves to share his knowledge with others.