What distinguishes a horizontal machining centre from a vertical machining centre, which is highly automated, multifunctional machine tools? Here is an explanation of a CNC vertical machining centre (VMC) and how VMC machines are used.
How to Define a CNC Vertical Machining Center – Definition of a Vertical Machining Center
A machining centre that performs various operations, such as milling, boring, drilling, tapping, and thread cutting, is referred to as a “vertical machining centre” (VMC). A type of computer numerical control VMC known as a CNC vertical machining centre features vertically oriented spindles and approach workpieces mounted on worktables from above. It also incorporates an automatic tool changer and tool magazine system. The material to be treated will be supported on a table in a CNC vertical milling centre while the cylindrical cutters are mounted vertically on a spindle axis.
Applications & Uses for VMC Machines
Due to its benefits and traits, a CNC vertical machining centre can manufacture machinery for industries requiring high levels of precision and mass production, including aerospace, automotive, instrumentation, light and textile, electronic and electrical, mould making, military products, handicrafts, etc. VMC is best suited for processing workpieces requiring many steps, high accuracy, and complex shapes.
· Parts in boxes
Box-type CNC machining parts, such as engine blocks, gearboxes, spindle boxes, diesel engine blocks, gear pump shells, etc., refer to the workpiece with more than one hole system and numerous cavities inside. These parts are typically used in machine tools, cars, and aeroplanes. 60% to 95% of the process of utilising standard machine tools can be performed in a single clamping operation when using a vertical machining centre. Many issues with machining box-type parts can be resolved thanks to the CNC VMC’s high precision, efficiency, rigidity, and automatic tool-changing mechanism. This is true as long as the process flow is well-designed and the right fixtures and tools are employed.
· Intricately curved parts
Cams, integrated engine impellers, propellers, mould cavities, and other complicated curved surfaces are frequently used in the aviation and transportation sectors. However, it is difficult to achieve the required machining accuracy and detect these types of parts using traditional machine tools or precision casting because they have complex curves, irregular surfaces, or closed inner cavities. The automatic machining of complex parts is made simple by a multi-axis machining centre equipped with automated programming technology and specialised tools, which can significantly increase production efficiency and guarantee surface shape accuracy.
· Components with unique or irregular shapes
Most irregularly shaped machined parts, such as brackets and bases, require multi-point mixed processing of point, line, and face. The more intricate the shape, the higher the accuracy needed when machining special-shaped components; this is why VMC excels.
· Plate, sleeve, and board components
Keyway and radial holes are frequently present in this form of the workpiece. Vertical machining centres are frequently used for parts with radial holes. In contrast, horizontal machining centres are frequently used for parts with end faces with hole systems or curved plates and shafts, such as shaft sleeves and plates with numerous holes, such as motor covers.
· Trying out new parts in manufacturing.
The machining centre is highly flexible and adaptable. You only need to create and input new programs, occasionally modifying specific programme segments or using special instructions when changing the machining object. For instance, using the zoom function to machine parts of the same shape but different sizes is convenient for single-piece, small-batch, multi-variety production, and new product trials. It also significantly shortens the preparation for production and trial manufacturing cycles.
Vertical and Horizontal Machining Centers: Their Differences
1) A CNC Vertical Machining Center has a vertical spindle, unlike a horizontal machining centre with a horizontal spindle.
2) The vertical machining centre’s worktable is rectangular and does not have an indexing rotation function. At the same time, a rotating table with automated indexing is typically found in the horizontal centre.
3) The horizontal machining centre makes it simpler to remove chips, which minimises tool wear.
4) The vertical machining centre is less expensive than the 5 Axis Machining Center and Horizontal centres and has a smaller footprint and a simpler structure.