When should the milling machine be used?

In this article we clarify what a CNC milling machine is, what are the possible applications of this tool and how to use it. 

What is the milling machine and how does it work

The milling machine is a machine tool that is controlled by a numerically controlled computer, which manages the movements of the axes during the processing of a material. It is possible to work with a wide range of materials, although at an industrial level steel and metal alloys are among the most widely used. 

CNC milling machines are therefore automated machines that receive indications through a control panel and perform processing on the basis of the information within the processing file. This type of machine allows you to model the blank with precision, limiting post-production processing. In fact, CNC milling machines are able to create high quality finished products in a short time.

In general, CNC milling machines are able to carry out different types of machining, thus reducing processing times, allowing even large quantities to be processed quickly and guaranteeing excellent results.

There are mainly two types of CNC milling machines: the vertical milling machine and the horizontal milling machine. Both types are able to recreate more or less complex shapes depending on the machine's capabilities and the number of axes available. In general, the minimum number of axes is three, allowing the machine to machine the workpiece on dimensions X, Y, Z (horizontal, vertical and depth). However, there are also machines with 5 axes, able to recreate details with extreme precision. 

How to use the milling machine

Although initially the milling machine was used to work wood, to date it is also possible to shape steel and various metal alloys. Therefore, milling is a rather versatile process that allows you to obtain high quality machining.

The milling machine can be used for several purposes:

• furniture finishing and assembly;
• reproduction of details such as shaping, mouldings, carvings;
• creation of grooves (especially in swallows, used to fit pieces of wood or metal);

However, it is necessary to evaluate the type of machining and the material in advance, so as to choose the right milling cutter with which to work. In fact, for processing to take place optimally, the tools must be chosen according to the type of cut and the material to be moulded. 

Therefore, before starting the machine, it is good to remember to address all the various stages of preparation for processing: the control of the file to be sent to the machine, the verification of the correct operation of the control panel, the inspection of the machine to avoid any impediments and the choice of suitable tools. 

How to use the milling machine

The first thing to do when working on the milling machine is to place the workpiece on the work surface: make sure that the workpiece is directed from the right side of the tool. 

This applies to all processes, except when you have to create grooves, which may instead need a cross table.

Then set the machining speed of the tool. This may vary depending on the processing and the material. Usually, the milling speed is quite high and must be kept constant to avoid machining defects. Check that the rotation speed is consistent with what you need to do. 

Finally, it is important not to confuse the CNC milling machine with a robot. In fact, even if CNC machines are managed by a computer, it is limited to controlling the machine in its movements. On the contrary, the robot is able to handle unforeseen events or obstacles during processing and change the settings autonomously. For this reason, CNC machines require attention and monitoring by a competent operator. 

Conclusions

The CNC milling machine is a complex machine that requires specialized skills. Be careful to manoeuvre the machine without the necessary precautions and if you do not have the right experience, there are machining centres that offer CNC milling services online. At ErreBiLab we are always ready to meet your needs quickly and at reasonable costs.