Millingturning

Millingturning is a manufacturing process that combines the operations of milling and turning. It is performed on a specialized machine tool known as a milling-turning center or a multi-tasking machine. This type of machine is capable of performing both rotational cutting (turning) and linear cutting (milling) on a single workpiece without the need for re-fixturing. This integration allows for more complex geometries and tighter tolerances to be achieved in a single setup, leading to increased efficiency and reduced manufacturing costs.

The milling-turning process typically involves a rotating workpiece held in a chuck or between centers, similar to a lathe. However, the machine also features a milling spindle that can be positioned and moved along multiple axes to perform milling operations. This allows for the creation of features such as slots, pockets, keyways, and complex contours on the exterior or interior surfaces of the part. By integrating these distinct operations, the milling-turning process significantly reduces the time and resources required for manufacturing, as it eliminates the need to transfer parts between separate milling and turning machines. This also minimizes potential errors introduced during workpiece handling and re-fixturing. The versatility of milling-turning centers makes them suitable for producing a wide range of parts, from simple components to highly intricate assemblies, across various industries including aerospace, automotive, and medical devices.