Milling machine Guide, Meaning , Facts, Information and Description
A
Milling machine is a power-driven machine used for the complex shaping of
metal (or possibly other materials) parts. Its basic form is that of a rotating cutter or bit which rotates in the vertical axis (like a
drill), and can move in three dimensions relative to the workpiece (in contrast to the drill which can only move in one dimension while cutting). The motion across the surface of the workpiece is usually accomplished by having a moveable table on which the workpiece is mounted, so arranged to move in two dimensions. Milling machines may be operated manually or under numerical control (see
CNC).
Milling machines can perform a vast number of complex operations, such as slot cutting, planing, drilling, rebating, routing, etc.
Cutting fluid is often pumped to the cutting site to cool and lubricate the cut, and to sluice away the resulting swarf.
Types of milling machines
There are two main types of mill. The vertical mill is like the drill press, but with an X-Y table that permits moving the job. End mills and slot drills (cutters that resemble a drill bit to a degree) can cut slots and pockets, while other specialised cutters can cut dovetails and t-slots. Large face mills can cut flat surfaces. A combination machine called a mill-drill is quite popular with amateurs as it takes the place of the drill press and a vertical mill.
A horizontal mill has the same sort of X-Y table, but the cutters go on a horizontal arbor across the table. Cutters for this have a cross section like a circular saw but are generally wider and smaller in diameter. A number may be ganged together on the arbor to face a flat surface. Special cutters can also cut grooves or indeed any section desired, but tend to be expensive.
A more complex (but possibly more common) form of the milling machine is the Universal milling machine, in which the rotating cutter can be oriented to any arbitrary angle, including at right angles to the workpiece.
See Also
This is an Article on Milling machine. Page Contains Information, Facts Details or Explanation Guide About Milling machine
