A fundamental subtractive manufacturing process where a rotating multi-tooth cutter removes material from a workpiece. The tool spins in a fixed position or programmed path while the material is fed into it, creating flat surfaces, slots, pockets, and complex 3D contours.
Heard on the job
We'll be milling the primary faces flat before moving the block to the drill press.
Do not mix it up with
- Turning tool: Milling spins the tool against a stationary part, while turning spins the part against a stationary tool.
Related terms
Climb milling
Milling with the cutter rotating in the same direction as the feed, so each chip starts thick and ends thin.
Endmill
A rotating cutter with teeth on its end and sides, the main tool for milling slots, pockets and profiles.
Feeds and speeds
The spindle speed and feed rate chosen for a cut, set from material, tool and machine.