Boring mills are common components of the machining industry. They can be mounted either vertically or horizontally and work to create parts for engineering, mining, aerospace, and more. There are subtle differences between the two types of boring mills and the following should provide a better understanding of how each is used.

Vertical vs. Horizontal Boring Mills

Vertical Boring Mills

These devices face in a downward direction over a horizontal table, which turns on a vertical axis. This causes the workpiece to move continuously and keeps the boring mill moving in a linear direction, allowing it to bore, face, and cut internal and external threads. Tools that don’t rotate are inserted horizontally or vertically with the help of a cross rail mounted turret slide. The side head is another component of this machining device that can be placed in either direction.

Applications for vertical boring mills span a wide range of industries. Some of the most popular include water turbine runners, locomotive tires, machine tool tables, and turbine casings. Anything that requires a threaded design for securing pieces in place should benefit from the solutions that these devices can provide.

Horizontal Boring Mills

While these devices are held in place by a horizontal table, it’s the boring tool that rotates instead of the workpiece. The spindle faces in a parallel position to the ground and turns on a horizontal axis. This continuous motion increases the versatility of the machine and allows workers to feed it larger sheets of material. As long as the metal is stable, then the device should have no trouble boring, shaping, and contouring the part.

This allows horizontal boring mills to fulfill the needs of larger-scale projects, whether it be cut-outs on both sides of the material or an exceptionally heavy piece of metal. Construction, shipbuilding, and oil production are just a few of the industries that benefit the most from this type of machining.

Rely on R. A. Heller Co. of Cincinnati, OH, for all of your grinding and milling needs. This locally owned and operated machine shop has been in the business for over 70 years and features a 20,000-square-foot facility that houses some of the most cutting-edge precision equipment. They work with professionals in a variety of industries and offer custom machining that will ensure every part is made to each customer’s specifications. Learn more about their qualifications by visiting their website or call (513) 771-6100 to place an order.