What is the primary function of a face mill cutter in machining?

The primary function of a face mill cutter in machining is to create flat surfaces. This type of cutter features multiple cutting edges and is designed to remove material from the surface of a workpiece, resulting in a smooth, flat finish. Face mills are commonly used in milling operations where the aim is to achieve precise surface dimensions and finish quality.

The unique geometry of face mill cutters allows them to work on the face of the part, making them particularly effective for tasks such as surfacing, flattening, and machining large surfaces. By utilizing multiple cutting inserts, they can remove material efficiently and uniformly over wide areas.

In contrast, options like drilling holes or cutting curves pertain to different types of tools and operations. For example, drilling is achieved with drill bits, while curves typically require specialized cutters such as ball mills. The mention of extracting chips misrepresents the function of milling tools, as while chip removal is a component of the cutting process, it is not the primary purpose of a face mill cutter. The focus remains on its ability to create flat, machined surfaces on a workpiece.