The Amazing Vertical Milling Machine
Posted by Angelia,
There are basically two types of milling machines – vertical and horizontal. A vertical milling machine uses a spindle axis that is oriented vertically. A horizontal milling machine has it arbors mounted horizontally. With a milling machine that is vertical, the spindle axis can usually be extended. This makes it possible to drill and do plunge-type cutting with the machine. Vertical versions come as either bedmill or turret mill. Bedmills are generally larger but turret mills have proven to be more versatile and efficient. When using a turret mill, the spindle doesn’t move and remains stationary when cutting is being performed. The table itself moves both perpendicularly and parallel to the spindle axis. In contrast, a bedmill moves only perpendicularly. Its spindle moves in a parallel direction to its own axis. There is actually another vertical version that is used today called a mill-drill. It is relatively inexpensive and small so that it is available to hobbyists and laypersons alike. The quality, of course, does not measure up to its larger and more efficient cousins, the bedmill and turret mill versions.
