There are two different types of knurling process: cut knurling and form knurling. Each of these processes has its own particular areas of application with associated advantages and disadvantages.
Cut Knurling
• Maximum precision and surface quality
• Can be used for knurling thin materials without deformation
• Saves time on account of higher cutting speed and feed rate
• Compatible with virtually any material, including cast iron and plastic
• Knurling to workpiece flange possible to a limited extent only
• Cutting process protects the expensive lathe
• No or minimal changes to the external workpiece diameter
• Minimal pressure on workpiece and lathe
• Negligible surface compression
Form Knurling (Non Cutting)
• Cold forming of the material
• Can be used for knurling up to workpiece flange
• All standard knurl patterns (to DIN 82) offered
• Knurling is possible at any position on the workpiece
• Recommended for visible knurls to a limited extend only
• Cold forming increases the external diameter of the workpiece.
• It compresses the surface of the workpiece.
• Form knurling is not recommended for thin materials.
• Form knurling on workpieces with a small diameter is possible to a limited extent only.
• Lathe is subjected to a greater load due to the higher pressure.
• Slower cutting speed and feed rate