Milling
tools were once restricted to high tech
machine shops or sawmills. Like many tools, however,
these complex machines have come down in price
to the point that many do it yourselfers are
purchasing them for their shops. Depending on
the type of machine purchased, this gives the
home shop user the chance to work in many different
types of materials, ranging from aluminium and
plastics to wood and steel. A basic understanding
of what milling tools do is a good place to start
if you are interested in doing your own milling.
The milling process
Using
a milling machine allows you to create
your own components. This means that you can
make artistic add-ons to your woodworking projects
(such as hinges or hasps) or even basic automobile
parts such as new frame components. Milling machines
allow the user to work in fine detail or on larger
pieces. Many milling machines even feature CNC
(Computerized Numerical Control) which allows
you to program a design or pattern into the machine
and then watch it reproduce exactly what you
have programmed.
A Jet milling machine
If you anticipate that you will be milling a
number of pieces for your projects, it may be
worthwhile to invest in a Jet milling machine
such as the Jet Baby B'Port Vertical Milling
Machine. This shop-sized milling machine has
many of the features found in an industrial-grade
milling machine, at a price under $5,000. Some
of these features include a one shot lubrication
system to keep bits from overheating and a tilting
head that allows you to work three dimensionally
without having to constantly move your materials.
A Bridgeport milling machine
A Bridgeport milling machine like the new VMC
610XP offers even more features for the advanced
user. These features include full CNC control,
automatic tool changing, and a closed work chamber
that keeps the shop environment free of microscopic
metal or plastic particles. Bridgeport
machines are aimed more at industrial users who need precision
for aerospace or motor sport applications. Though
a Bridgeport milling machine may be a bit more
expensive than other brands, Bridgeport does
have a reputation for producing some of the world's
best milling tools.
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