A horizontal machining centre is a machine specifically designed to perform a range of operations automatically. It is driven by computer numerical control (CNC), which means it carries out an automated process for greater precision, accuracy and productivity.
Horizontal machining centres come in a wide variety of sizes, configurations and levels of automation. What they all have in common is that they work automatically. This speeds up production without the operator having to handle the parts during machining.
Operations performed by a horizontal machining centre
A horizontal machining centre performs a variety of automatic machining operations on complex parts. Its productivity is high enough for series production. In fact, it can carry out any metal-cutting operation on all kinds of metal parts.
These operations are typically carried out on large parts. A horizontal machining centre can position the workpiece at different angles depending on the operation. The machine is equipped with a range of cutting tools, such as drills, milling cutters and other cutters, which rotate or apply pressure to remove chips, make holes, face flat surfaces and so on.
Drilling
Drilling is a machining process that produces a hole in the workpiece material using a rotating drill. The hole can have whatever dimensions have been set beforehand in the computer numerical control (CNC).
Grooving
Grooving is a horizontal machining operation in which a number of cylindrical grooves are cut into the part. The width and depth of the grooves are set beforehand on the CNC control panel, so the machine executes the instructions based on a predefined groove width and depth.
Threading
The aim of this horizontal machining operation is to produce a thread on the part. Threads can be cut internally or externally, external threading being the simpler of the two. It is essential that the feed rate matches the thread pitch. When cutting internal threads, swarf evacuation must also be taken into account to achieve a good result.
Parting off
Parting off is another operation a horizontal machining centre can perform. Here the machine cuts off or separates part of the workpiece. It is generally done on large parts and requires maximum precision and reliability from the machine; otherwise the part would have to be scrapped.
Reaming
Reaming is a machining operation used to produce high-precision holes. It uses a multi-flute tool that produces very accurate, precise holes. The operator enters the coordinates on the CNC control panel to specify the depth of cut, speed and feed.
Profiling
Some parts have very complex grooves that are difficult to reach. To give them the best surface finish, profiling is used. As with the previous operations, the profiling coordinates are entered into the machine via the control panel. Beforehand, it is very important to give careful thought to the required profile in order to obtain the best results.
Facing
Facing is the operation in which the machine machines the end of the part. The result is a flat surface on the front face of the part. The part rotates and can be faced on either side; if both sides are required, it must be turned over once the first face is finished.
Knurling
Knurling is a machining operation performed on a part's surface to improve grip. It can be done in three different ways: by forming, extrusion or cutting. Most horizontal machining centres use the cutting method, as it achieves greater depth and a better surface finish. Some modern horizontal machining centres can combine several operations in a single machine. These multi-function machines deliver higher productivity, maximum efficiency and precision in finishing, and significant cost savings.