What are the smaller teeth on a broach that initiate cuts in the workpiece called?

The smaller teeth on a broach that initiate cuts in the workpiece are known as roughing teeth. These teeth are specifically designed to remove material rapidly and efficiently, setting the stage for the subsequent, finer cutting that will be done by larger teeth. The roughing teeth create the initial profile by removing excess material, shaping the workpiece while minimizing the required cutting force.

In broaching operations, the sequence of teeth is critical. After the roughing teeth have created a basic shape, the finishing teeth take over to achieve the desired surface finish and precise dimensions. This two-step process ensures that the broaching tool operates effectively and maintains cutting efficiency while extending tool life.

Understanding the function of roughing teeth is essential for those working with broaching tools, as it highlights the purpose of each part of the tool and how they contribute to the overall machining process.