Horizontal machining center
What is a horizontal machining center?
A horizontal machining center is a machine tool commonly used in machine shops, particularly suited for production work and machining large workpieces. "Horizontal spindle" means that the spindle is mounted horizontally, forming the Z-axis. In addition, horizontal machining centers have X and Y axes and a worktable that acts as a rotary table (B-axis). The machine may also include a quill (W-axis), which extends the machine’s reach and allows for the drilling of deeper holes and meeting other extension needs.
Axes of a horizontal machining center
The spindle installed horizontally forms the machine’s Z-axis, moving the tool horizontally, which improves chip evacuation and reduces tool deflection when machining large parts. The X and Y axes move the worktable and tool on a horizontal plane in different directions, enabling multi-dimensional machining as well as precise and complex cuts on large workpieces. The B-axis serves as a rotary table, allowing the workpiece to be rotated during machining—a crucial feature in complex machining operations where multiple sides of the workpiece need to be processed without reclamping. The W-axis, or quill, which protrudes from the spindle, increases reach and is particularly useful for machining deep holes and accessing hard-to-reach areas inside a part.
Table sizes of horizontal machining centers
Typical table sizes for horizontal machining centers range from 400x400 mm to 1250x1250 mm, but other sizes are also available as needed. This wide range of available sizes makes these machines extremely versatile for many applications, from small parts to large components.
Horizontal machining center pallet changer systems
A key feature of horizontal machining centers is their integrated pallet changer systems. The machine typically has two or more pallets, allowing for unattended machining. Pallet changers boost productivity, as the next workpiece can be prepared and clamped to one pallet while the first piece is being machined on another.
Horizontal machining center spindle tapers
The most common spindle tapers used in horizontal machining centers are BT, SK, and HSK. These tapers allow for quick and precise tool changes and ensure secure tool clamping during machining.
Brands and controls of horizontal machining centers
The most well-known brands of horizontal machining centers include DN Solutions, DMG Mori, Okuma, and Mazak. These machines commonly use CNC controls such as Fanuc, Mazatrol, and Okuma OSP, which provide users with precision and flexibility in machine operations.
Suitability of horizontal machining centers for metalworking shops
Horizontal machining centers are especially suited for production work and machining of large components. They are widely used in industries where high productivity and precision are required. Thanks to their multi-axis capabilities and pallet changer systems, they are ideal for unattended production environments, where machining processes can be optimized to the fullest.
Summary
Horizontal machining centers are versatile, precise, and efficient machine tools, ideal for serial production and machining large parts. Their multi-axis capability, wide table size options, pallet changer systems, and quill (W-axis) make it possible to machine complex and large workpieces with high accuracy and productivity. The horizontally mounted spindle and rotary table enable precise and high-quality machining. Pallet changer systems speed up productivity by allowing new workpieces to be prepared while another is being machined. The extended reach provided by the B-axis and W-axis makes machining especially efficient and flexible. Thanks to these features, horizontal machining centers are an essential part of any modern and efficient machine shop.
