Milling
Milling is used to machine components requiring intricate geometries. Depending
on the machining requirements, different milling configurations; such as
slab milling, face milling, and end milling, can be utilized. In the end
milling mode, the cutter rotates with a fixed speed N while the workpiece
is moved. Furthermore, end milling can be classified as either up milling
or down milling. In up milling, the workpiece moves in a direction opposite
to the rotation of the cutter.
On the other hand, in down milling, the workpiece moves in the same direction
as the rotation of the cutter. Overall, column - and - knee type machines
are extensively used for most milling operations. For end milling, a vertical
- spindle column - and - knee type machine is used. The primary components
of this machine are the worktable, saddle, knee, and head. The workpiece
to be machined is attached to the worktable, which moves horizontally (left
and right). In turn, the worktable is supported by the saddle, which moves
also moves horizontally (in and out). The vertical movement of the table
(up and down) is controlled by the knee. This component allows the user
to change the depth of cut. Finally, the head houses the spindle and different
cutters.
SEM Microraph of Milling Surface