Features of a Turret Milling Machine

A milling machine is a highly versatile machine tool which is used for machining solid materials. It can execute a large number of operations that includes cutting, planing, drilling, shaping, contouring, diesinking, etc. Milling machines are basically classified in two forms, such as horizontal and vertical, which actually refers to the orientation of the main spindle. In a horizontal machine, the cutting blade extends horizontally. While in a vertical machine, the cutting edge is held vertically above the work piece.

The turret milling machine is one of the sub categories of the vertical milling machine. It primarily operates by moving the table around the cutting blade in all the directions. This milling machine has the ability to cut various types of objects. The turret milling machine consists of a stationary spindle and a table which is moved in the perpendicular as well as parallel direction to the spindle axis, in order to cut the work piece. This type of machine provides various methods of cutting with the help of a quill. The quill enables the milling cutter to be raised and lowered in the vertical direction for cutting the required material.

Turret Milling Machines 

A wide range of turret milling machines are now available in the market. They have a variety of features, functions, dimensions, and specifications. Hence turret milling machines are regarded as the most versatile milling machines. However, the large machines are complicated to operate. This is due to the fact that as the machine size increases, the upward and downward movement requires considerable effort, and it is also difficult to reach the quill feed handle. They are therefore preferred for die sinking operations that involve machining a mold into a block of metal.

Moreover, the turret milling machine can be repositioned anytime for improving the functionality of the machine. This highly resourceful milling machine comprises of several options for aligning the spindle in a number of positions. It has a unique design and a sturdy structure. Besides this it includes various user friendly features and has greater functionality. This highly effective machine is also well known for its low maintenance and high performance. And since it is a multi-purpose machine it has the capability of manufacturing a variety of products. It is particularly suitable for producing a wide range of automobile parts. In fact this vertical milling machine is relatively less expensive than the horizontal milling machines; and hence they are more commonly used throughout the world.

One of the latest features of these turret milling machines is the use of computer numerical control technology, which is popularly known as CNC. Using this modern technology, the user can input simple as well as complex instructions for operating the different parts of the machine. The CNC technology also helps to increase the productivity of the user, and also enables them to continuously produce a large quantity of accurate and similar products. Some of the recent models also include a hand held remote control with buttons for machine feeds and spindle movements.