| 1 | Product Range | Check whether the supplier makes the tool types your process needs, such as solid-carbide end mills, drills, reamers, or indexable cutting tools. | Current catalogue, product drawings, available sizes, and clearly identified part numbers. | Record which required tool types and sizes are available; distinguish standard products from made-to-order items. |
| 2 | Tool Substrate and Grade | Compare the stated substrate and grade for each application. Carbide grades and other tool materials are not interchangeable across every workpiece and cutting condition. | Grade designation, technical data sheet, and guidance on intended workpiece materials and operations. | Check that recommendations match your material, machine, tool geometry, and cutting conditions. |
| 3 | Geometry and Dimensions | Compare cutting diameter, flute count, helix or point geometry, shank, overall length, and usable cutting length. | Dimensioned drawings, tolerances, and product specifications for the exact part number. | Confirm that dimensions and geometry suit the holder, tool path, workpiece features, and required reach. |
| 4 | Coating and Surface Treatment | Compare coating type and the applications for which it is recommended. A coating’s suitability depends on the tool, workpiece, and cutting conditions. | Coating description, applicable product range, and technical recommendations for use. | Assess coating options against the specific material and operation; do not compare coating names alone. |
| 5 | Cutting Data and Performance | Compare recommended cutting speed, feed, depth of cut, coolant conditions, and stated application limits for equivalent operations. | Application charts or technical guidance specifying the workpiece material and operating conditions. | Validate claims using a controlled trial with the same machine, workpiece, setup, and success criteria. |
| 6 | Dimensional Accuracy and Runout | Compare the tolerances and runout limits relevant to your application. Results depend on the tool, measurement method, gauge length, and setup. | Inspection results that state the measured feature, method, and acceptance limit. | Set acceptance limits before ordering and ensure suppliers use comparable measurement conditions. |
| 7 | Quality Management and Inspection | Review how incoming materials, production processes, and finished tools are inspected and controlled. | Quality-system certificate, its scope and validity, inspection plan, and sample inspection records. | Verify certificates with the issuing body where appropriate; confirm that the certified scope covers the relevant operation. |
| 8 | Batch Traceability | Check whether finished tools can be linked to production and inspection records by lot or batch. | Sample labels, lot identification, and an example of the records available for a shipped batch. | Confirm that the traceability information supports your quality, investigation, and documentation requirements. |
| 9 | Customization and Engineering Support | Compare capabilities for non-standard dimensions, special geometries, drawing review, and application troubleshooting. | Customization process, drawing-review procedure, sample approval steps, and change-control arrangements. | Clarify design ownership, approval responsibilities, prototype timing, and how revisions are documented. |
| 10 | Supply, Service, and Commercial Terms | Compare quoted lead times, minimum order quantities, packaging, after-sales response, and claim or replacement procedures. | Written quotation, delivery schedule, packaging details, warranty or claim terms, and service contact process. | Compare like-for-like quotations and confirm delivery, payment, shipping, and documentation requirements for your destination. |