Vertical Mill vs Horizontal Mill – Difference Between Horizontal and Vertical Milling Machine

A horizontal milling machine usually consists of the base, column, spindle, overarm, knee, saddle, worktable, yoke, arbor, vertical guideways, horizontal guideways, cutter, and knee elevating screw. Vertical mills have the same basic parts, the most significant difference between them is the location of the spindle and rotation of the cutter. What other differences were caused by the reason?

1. Spindle axis. In a vertical milling machine, the spindle axis is aligned vertically, while in a horizontal milling machine, the spindle axis is placed in the horizontal direction. 

2. Accuracy. Vertical milling centers have greater accuracy than horizontal machines. 

3. Cost. Generally, a vertical mill is cheaper in price when compared to a horizontal mill.

4. Surface finish. A horizontal milling machine offers a better surface finish.

5. Efficiency. Horizontal milling has a higher material removal rate at the same tool speed in the same amount of time. 

6. Speed. Horizontal milling cut faster and can make multiple cuts simultaneously. 

7. Customization. Horizontal mills are more customizable than vertical machines, it can work with various tools. 

8. Capacity. Horizontal milling machines can be used to process multiple sides, while vertical mills often used to perform the machining on a single plane. 

9. Tools. Vertical machining centers usually feature long and thin tools, and horizontal machines use short and thick tools for removing large amounts of materials from the piece. 

10. Cuts. Due to the difference in cutting tools, a horizontal milling machine can perform deep and heavy cuts at high speed, vertical mills usually do general works but drilling on the part. 

11. Tool Life. Tools used in horizontal milling can get a longer service life. 

12. Working area. Horizontal mills require a larger area. 

13. Weight. Vertical milling machines are generally lighter in weight and less powerful than horizontal machines. 

14. Chip removal. Chips can be removed properly and easily from the horizontal mill, but that can’t be done in a vertical mill. 

15. Applications. Horizontal milling is more suitable for a large production run due to greater speed and precision. 

16. Durability. Horizontal milling can handle larger and heavier materials without damage to the machine.