Mill

Milling machine in operation (Ellis Dunklebarger)

The milling machine brings a rotating cutter into contact with a stationary and clamped workpiece that is help on a precision table. Milling can produce very flat and high precision parts with contours, holes, grooves, and other complex features. CNC milling machines have made it possible to turn a solid block of material into a complex shape in a matter of minutes to hours.

Milling machines are generally found in the vertical and horizontal types, referring to the axis of rotation of the tool. The vertical mill is most commonly found in shops, but well equipped shops have both types. Horizontal mills can be setup with ganged cutters to reduce the number of operations that must be performed on a piece during production.

A CNC milling machine with tool changer (Ellis Dunklebarger)

Use

The mill, in principle, is very basic to use, but learning how to accurately operate the machine and its accessories takes some time and practice. The videos below are a good starter series to help you learn the basic operations.

Safety Precautions

The biggest safety hazard is being cut or entangled by the rotating tool. Hair, clothing, and anything else hanging from the body present hazards. Also, never try to clean chips away with your hand. Proper eye protection should also be worn.