High speed steel (HSS) HSS is suitable for a variety of materials, including most metals. It is cheaper, less fragile, and can tolerate unstable conditions. HSS is the material of choice for most tools used in standard operations, but overall tool life is short and there are limitations in speed and performance. It is deal for older, slower or less rigid machines, and for one-off or extremely short-run processing.
Solid carbide Carbide has higher stiffness, better heat resistance, and faster cutting speeds than high-speed steel. Not only does this increase productivity, it also allows for cutting a wider range of harder materials. Carbide end mills are commonly used for finishing purposes and are preferred in CNC machines that require higher speeds, reduced tool changes and increased productivity.