Metal milling: features and capabilities
One of the most common metal processing methods is milling. In the process of its application, the excess layer of material is removed by the so-called cutter – a special rotating tool that looks like a drill sharpened at a certain angle or a circular saw of a non-standard shape. Technologically complex milling processing of parts is highly functional, therefore it is currently in demand in aircraft and automotive design, construction and other industrial areas.
Features of metal milling
For different types of metal surfaces that differ in the type of fastening, design, tooth shape and other characteristics, cutters (cutting blades) of different types are used:
- end – designed for processing large parts;
- end – used in cases where you need to drill a “well” or a window in the part, make a groove on it;
- shaped – suitable for milling metal profiles;
- peripheral – after their application, metal chips remain in the form of a comma sign.
Depending on the direction of rotation of the cutting element, milling is distinguished:
Reverse – implies the movement of the cutting edge towards the workpiece (on the teeth of the cutter). This type of processing wins in speed.
Incline – based on the movement of the cutter from top to bottom (under the teeth of the cutter). This type of metalworking allows you to achieve a clean cut.
Both of these milling methods can be combined. In particular, in order to reduce defective elements, large parts are initially recommended to be processed in the opposite way, and only then – along the way.
Depending on the method of fixing the metal workpiece on the bed, milling can be:
- vertical;
- horizontal;
- angular.
Technology of milling metalworking
The technological process of metal milling consists of sequential actions of the miller, which:
- analyzes the details and type of work in order to select the appropriate type of cutter;
- fixes the cutting blades on the spindle of the milling machine;
- fixes a metal blank on the bed;
- turns on the spindle at low speed;
- brings the part fixed on the frame to the cutter to a minimum contact;
- retracts the bed, stops the spindle;
- selects the desired cutting parameters (spindle speed, depth);
- turns on the machine and brings the workpiece under the cutter, after which the milling process starts.
Milling can also be done on CNC laser machines. Then it happens in two ways:
- the laser burns out the desired shape in the designated place, and then grinds the border;
- The laser passes over one place and thus removes a layer of metal of the required thickness.
The advantages of metal milling:
- Suitable for various types of metal (cast iron, hardened steel, copper, aluminium, bronze, brass, titanium).
- Can be performed on any surface (serrated, shaped, ledges, even planes, etc.).
- Allows you to quickly and accurately produce parts.
- Enables the production of parts in large quantities.
At the Dnepropetrovsk Foundry and Machine-Building Plant enterprise, milling of metal blanks is performed by specially trained workers. As a result, customers receive finished parts of geometric shapes of various complexity. The presence of high-tech milling machines allows us to fulfill orders with the highest quality and on time.
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