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FAQs About Milling Machines
What is a milling machine?
A milling machine is used for shaping and machining metal and other solid materials. It uses rotary cutters to remove material from a workpiece and advances in various directions on one or several axes. They can handle a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and wood, and are valued for their precision, efficiency, and ability to create complex shapes and detailed parts .
What is a milling machine used for?
Milling machines — used in the automotive, mold-making, aerospace, and manufacturing industries — serve several purposes. They shape, cut, and finish materials by removing material from a workpiece using rotary cutters. They are versatile machines that can perform various tasks such as face milling, end milling, drilling, boring, slotting, and threading.
What are the types of milling machines?
Used milling machines come in many different forms. From hydromechanical clamping slides and table load maximums to milling head parts, the type of machine you need depends on your project.
Bed Mills
Bed mills are a type of milling machine in which the table and workpiece move horizontally along the X and Y axes, while the spindle moves vertically along the Z axis. This provides stability and allows for the precision machining of large, heavy workpieces. Bed mills are commonly used in industries requiring robust and precise milling operations, such as manufacturing ships, aircraft parts, and automotive components.
Horizontal Milling Machine
A horizontal milling machine positions the spindle horizontally, parallel to the work table. It can move in three directions: longitudinally, laterally, and vertically. These machines allow for the use of various cutting tools to machine large, heavy workpieces and perform operations like cutting slots, gears, and grooves. They’re ideal for tasks that require the removal of large amounts of material and are commonly used in heavy-duty industrial applications.
We sell horizontal milling machines from leading, popular brands like Bridgeport and Cincinnati.
Vertical Milling Machine?
A vertical milling machine orients the spindle vertically, perpendicular to the work table. This design allows for versatile operations such as drilling, boring, and cutting complex shapes. Vertical milling machines are ideal for tasks that require high precision and are commonly used in manufacturing, prototyping, and metalworking.
These types of used milling machines can be handled manually or through computer numerical control (CNC). Control options vary, and vertical milling machines also come with a variable-speed spindle and other components.
Rolling Mills?
Rolling mills use sets of rotating rolls to shape metal and make it thinner. Rolling mills cannot only design metal into an amazing shape, but they also come with different roll capabilities, configurations, and power consumption levels.
- Two-high mills: Have two rolls that rotate in opposite directions, with the metal getting thinner as it passes between them.
- Three-high mills: The top and bottom rolls rotate in the same direction, with the middle roll moving in the opposite direction.
- Four high-mills:: Use two smaller primary rolls, with two larger rolls for backup and support.
CNC Milling Machine?
A CNC milling machine is controlled by computer numerical control (CNC) technology, which automates the machining process. It allows for precise and complex operations such as cutting, drilling, and contouring. This machine follows programmed instructions (G-code) and features an automatic table feed, both of which streamline the operations process.
We are proud to sell CNC mills from a variety of popular brands that include the following: Bridgeport, Cincinnati, Haas Automation, Mazak, DMG Mori, Okuma, Soodan, Hurco, Makino, and Fadal.
What should you look for when buying a milling machine?
When shopping used milling machines for sale, there are some important aspects to look for. Any milling machine you purchase should be well-lubricated and equipped with components that include a sturdy power feed, good spindle speed range, a reliable head swivel, etc.
For example, some milling machines have scraped and chromed ways. Chroming adds strength to the ways for less wear and scraping evenly distributes the oil across the ways for a smooth flow. To make a machine flow smoothly, you need a good lubrication system. Options include an automatic lubrication system or a one shot lube system.
When shopping for a milling machine, it’s worthwhile to consider the key components of what makes a milling machine work and what parts get worn:
- Table Working Surface
- Swivel Of Head
- Longitudinal Feed Of Table
- Vertical Feed Of Head
- Vertical Feed Of Table
- Spindle Taper Hole
- Table Or Knee Feed Range
- Spindle Speed Range
- Distance Spindle To Outboard Support
- Maximum Distance Spindle To Center Of Table
- Distance Spindle To Face Of Column
Ultimately, the decision to buy a new or used horizontal or vertical milling machine depends on your budget, specific requirements, and preferences. Whatever decision you make, talk to our experts at Sterling Machiney Exchange and Fabrication to help guide you in your decision. If you’re looking for a used milling machine for sale, we’re proud to offer a variety of machines by top brands.
What are the most popular brands of milling machines?
Ultimately, the decision to buy a new or used horizontal or vertical milling machine depends on your budget, specific requirements, and preferences. Whatever decision you make, talk to our experts at Sterling Machiney Exchange and Fabrication to help guide you in your decision. If you’re looking for a used milling machine for sale, we’re proud to offer a variety of machines by top brands.
With a wide selection of top milling machine brands in stock, we’re excited to help you find the perfect fit for your needs. Industry-leading brands include:
- Bridgeport: One of the oldest and most recognized names known for their precision, durability, and ease of use.
- Lagun: Produces both vertical and horizontal milling machines and are known for their high-quality machines and innovative features.
- JET:: Produces machines for both home and industrial use and are known for their reliability, accuracy, and affordability.
- Sharp:: Produces high-quality milling machines for a range of applications and are known for their precision, ease of use, and durability.
- Kent:: Produces machines designed for both commercial and industrial use and are known for their accuracy, reliability, and versatility
- Baileigh:: Designed for both home and industrial situations, with options like Digital Readouts, Power Feeds, and Power Drawbars available.
Other notable brands of vertical milling machines include Southwestern, Acra, and Lagun, among others. With so many to choose from, ask our experts to show you the differences and assist you in making a decision.
Find the Right Used Milling Machine
Are you looking for used milling machines with the best components and tools for your projects? We’ve got you covered! With over 70 years of experience in the industry, we are a trusted and proven company that stands behind the machinery we sell. Explore our selection to find the perfect machine to enhance your operations and boost your productivity.
We also buy and sell new and used mills and are available to assist you with listing and selling your machinery and/or getting it front and center at auctions. In addition to milling machines, we also offer used bandsaws, metal lathes, ironworkers, press brakes, and more. Check out our range of machinery to find what you need for your next project.
For more information, contact us online or call us at (626) 444-0311.
We buy & sell all types of mills such as:
- Vertical Milling Machine- Bridgeport, Sharp, Tree, Webb, Wells, Supermax, Lagun, Machinist
- Horizontal Mills- Kerney & Trecker, Cincinnati, Johnson,
- Production Simplex- : Kent Owens, Cincinnati
- Plain Horizontal- : All Brands
- Hydrotel-Vertical-: All Sizes