The difference between vertical and horizontal machining centers

There are many types of machining centers, including gantry machining centers, vertical machining centers, and horizontal machining centers. The most common one is our vertical machining center, which should be well-known to everyone. However, horizontal machining centers are rarely unclear. Today, we will discuss the difference between vertical machining centers and horizontal machining centers.

Vertical machining center and horizontal machining center have different structures

The main difference between a vertical machining center and a horizontal machining center is the Z-axis structure. A vertical machining center completes machining by moving the Z-axis vertically downwards, while a horizontal machining center completes machining by moving the Z-axis horizontally downwards. This is the difference between a vertical machining center and a horizontal machining center.

The workbenches of vertical machining centers and horizontal machining centers are different

The worktable of a vertical machining center is usually a structure of a cross slide T-shaped groove worktable, with two sets of vertical motion mechanisms responsible for the direction of motion. The X-direction feed table cover is responsible for the Y-direction feed guide rail. The worktable and horizontal machining center are only designed for X-direction or Y-direction motion. The worktable form is generally a grid screw hole table rotating worktable, which is relatively easy to switch between dual worktables.

So, should we choose a vertical machining center or a horizontal machining center?

They handle object-oriented programming in different ways. Due to the height limitations of the columns and tool changers, vertical machining centers cannot handle excessively high components. The volume of the workpiece is relatively small. To achieve lateral machining of workpieces, corner heads or CNC turntables must be installed. Horizontal clamping can complete the machining of all four sides except for the installation surface and top surface. Suitable for the processing of box type parts. Pentahedral machining can be achieved by adding corner heads.

Generally speaking, the structural complexity of horizontal machining centers is higher than that of vertical machining centers, and the price is much higher.