Milling

Milling is the most versatile machining operation, able to perform all the functions below and more. If you don’t know which ones you need don’t worry! We’ll figure that all out for you. Mills use a spinning cutter in a spindle to cut away material from the part which is held in a vise below. The table and spindle can be moved very accurately to hold tight tolerances on the part, and the cutters can cut a wide range of materials. Additionally, a rotary table can be added to further expand the capabilities of the mill with a rotational axis.

Materials: Metals (Steel, Brass, Stainless, Titanium), Plastics
Uses: Orthogonal shapes mostly, but flexible
Part Complexity: Simple shapes, highest accuracy
Cost: $60 per hour
Maximum Part Size: 11.8 x 5.1 x 10.6 in (300 x 130 x 270 mm)

Is your part more cylindrical than rectangular? Try Milling
Does your part need complex profiles in 2D? Try Waterjet Cutting

Milling Processes

Decking

Decking gives a very flat surface to a part, generally with superior surface finish.

Pocketing

Pocketing rectangular shapes (or combinations of rectangular shapes) is a common and straightforward procedure.

Shouldering/Slotting

Cutting shoulders or slots is quite common and may take any number of orthogonal shapes.

Profiling - Rectangular

Profiling defines the perimeter of the part, and can be easily done for any number of orthogonal edges.

Bolt Hole/Threads Patterns

Holes can be drilled at any X-Y coordinates to produce patterns to match any mating part. Additionally, holes can be blind or through tapped for screw threads.