How does a milling machine work in our metalworking process?

Unlike standard drills that are limited to a single axis of motion, precision milling machines move along multiple axes (X, Y, and Z). This enables milling machines to efficiently and accurately form 2D and 3D shapes in a variety of metals, such as 300 and 400 series stainless steel machining, aluminum profile machining, brass machining, titanium material machining, L605 and other specialty sheet metal machining, etc.

When milling a part, hold it on a mobile table (or bed), using tools such as a vice, V-block (for holding cylindrical seamless tubes), or step jigs. A rotary cutting tool housed in the handpiece is lowered onto the part while the chips are removed by cooling lubricant.

The cutting head of a milling machine usually has serrated teeth. Straight teeth are more effective when cutting dense materials, while helical teeth are more effective when working with softer materials. It is important to note that because the milling process puts significant stress on the machined part, weak or thin shapes are more difficult to mill, as are shapes with irregular edges.

CNC milling machines are usually grouped together by the number of axes they run. Most machines operate on three to five axes. Typically, the X and Y axes of the milling cutter move the part back and forth in the horizontal axis, while the cutting tool moves vertically in the Z axis.

(c)