Once there was a chisel, then a grinder. Today we have a milling machine – an irreplaceable tool in the hands of professionals. Efficient, versatile and precise. A milling machine is a machine tool designed for machining flat and shaped surfaces. Do you want to equip your workshop with a modern milling machine that will improve work efficiency? Are you wondering whether to buy a top spindle milling machine or maybe an edge milling machine? Check what to look for when choosing a milling machine, learn about its use and types, and learn how to properly care for the tool.
Check out the milling machines at the Onninen wholesaler
Applications and advantages of overhead milling machines
Due to their lightness, versatility and ease of use, the most popular routers are currently the ones that are used most often. This tool is used by both professionals and amateurs. The router is perfect for finishing work in wood that requires high precision. It is also suitable for processing other materials: aluminium, plastics, plasterboard, acrylic or plywood.
It allows you to create grooves, process edges into fancy shapes and make complicated patterns, details and inscriptions on the entire surface of the perimeter, e.g. mirrors. For this reason, the overhead milling machine is used primarily by carpenters, furniture manufacturers, renovation and finishing companies and DIY enthusiasts. A characteristic feature of the overhead milling machine is a rotating, vertical spindle located above the table top. The cutters are mounted in it. The material to be milled is cut from above. The cutter removes its excess.
What types of milling machines are there?
The basic division of milling machines into overhead, low and equal spindle machines concerns the position of the spindle holding the cutter. The position of the spindle in an overhead milling machine is described in the paragraph above. In turn, the spindles of a low spindle milling machine are located under the table. Low spindle milling machines, which are complicated to use, are intended for professionals. They are primarily used for profile milling. In an equal spindle milling machine, on the other hand, the spindle is located flush with the table top.
Milling machines can also be divided according to their design. Based on this criterion , single-spindle and multi-spindle models are distinguished. The greater the number of spindles, the better the efficiency of the device, but also the more difficult the operation. Division according to the design, or more precisely the arrangement of the spindle, also requires mentioning vertical, horizontal and universal milling machines . The position of the spindle affects the method of processing, and consequently - the purpose of the given machine.
The milling machine is selected for specific applications to increase the efficiency of the processes. If you mainly want to mill edges, the optimal solution for you will be an edge milling machine . Do you want to make grooves and notches in the material? By using a nut milling machine, you will definitely be able to improve the speed and precision of work.
A technologically advanced solution is a CNC milling machine (Computerized Numerical Control). It is used for automated metal and wood processing and for creating complex tools, molds, and machine parts. Due to their very high price and the need for programming, CNC milling machines are used primarily in industry.
Additionally, the following are available on the market:
- portable milling machines - classified as power tools,
- one-handed milling machines - small, light, operated with one hand,
- groove milling machines - allowing for cutting longitudinal notches in wood,
- construction milling machines – specialized, extremely efficient machines designed for the quick removal of concrete, thick layers of glue or epoxy resin,
- table milling machines – stationary, used in workshops, equipped with very powerful engines.
If you do not know what type of milling machine will be best for the work you are planning, contact our sales consultant who will be happy to help you choose the right model.
What is the difference between an edge router and a router?
These machines differ primarily in their purpose . Edge milling machines are recommended for different tasks and materials, and overhead milling machines for others. As the name suggests, an edge milling machine is used for precise processing of edges and frames: leveling, profiling, giving decorative forms, making grooves, etc. The device is compact, lightweight, and handy.
It can often be operated with one hand. On the other hand, a router is a much more versatile machine. It is suitable for many jobs: from precise edge processing to creating unusual patterns. If you are wondering which router will work best for most renovation, finishing and restoration jobs, the answer is - a router.
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How to choose the right milling machine power?
Milling machines differ in power, which is given in watts [W]. In the category of overhead milling machines, you can find machines with a nominal power of 400 W to 2500 W. This parameter has significant practical significance. It determines the maximum rotational speeds, affecting the work efficiency and the purpose of the device. The more powerful the milling machine, the faster and more effectively it will handle the processing of hard materials.
For amateur carpenters, smaller milling machines with a power of up to 1500 W should be enough. On the other hand, professionals looking for a tool for heavy-duty applications (e.g. construction joinery, staircase construction) or for mounting on a table usually choose milling machines with a power of around 2000 W. Models with a power of 1250 to 1400 W seem to be the most universal. They will prove useful in various types of carpentry and joinery work, both professional and hobby.
What to look for when buying a milling machine?
When buying a milling machine, pay attention to:
- device type,
- engine power,
- milling depth,
- adjustment ranges,
- weight,
- diameter of the grip and working part,
- accessories included (copying ring, parallel guide, replaceable cutter tips, etc.),
- additional facilities (e.g. depth stop, dust extraction system, LED lighting of the work area, spindle lock),
- warranty period,
- reputation of the manufacturer.
How often should you lubricate your milling machine?
For maximum service life and consistently high precision, every milling machine requires maintenance. Maintenance is neither complicated nor expensive, so it is not worth skipping it. The basis is a thorough cleaning of the machine - preferably after each use, to get rid of residues from the processed material. Maintenance also includes lubrication to ensure smooth operation of the device.
All moving parts of the milling machine require regular lubrication, especially spindles and guides. It is best to check the level and places of lubrication cyclically : once a week, a month, half a year and a year. The manufacturer's guidelines are decisive here. You will find them in the attached documentation. Some milling machine models are equipped with an automatic lubrication system. The frequency and intensity of lubrication should then be programmed according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
In case of doubts, contact the manufacturer or service - necessarily an authorized one, while the device is still under warranty. The service life, efficiency and safety of the machine's operation are significantly influenced by cyclical technical condition checks. Some mechanical elements are subject to natural wear and tear, so they may require replacement. The condition of the milling machine should be carefully examined after it has fallen or another dangerous event.
Milling machines in the Onninen wholesaler
In the Onninen electrical and hydraulic wholesaler you will find compact, powerful and efficient electric milling machines and many other power tools. All devices are distinguished by solid workmanship and careful finishing, ensuring reliable operation for many years. They also offer an excellent value for money. We are an authorized representative of Greenworks - a supplier of high-quality garden power tools, a brand with a global reach and a leader in battery tool sales in the USA.
Having trouble choosing? Not sure which construction milling machine can handle the hardest materials? Or maybe you are hesitating between a high-speed steel milling cutter and a carbide version? Contact us! Onninen consultants will try to answer all questions about milling machines and milling cutters and will suggest the optimal products from the wholesaler's assortment.