Why Do They Call It A Knee Mill?

Introduction:

The world of machining and manufacturing is a complex and fascinating one. One term that often comes up when discussing these industries is “knee mill.” But what exactly is a knee mill, and why is it called that? In this article, we”ll explore the origins and meaning of this term and delve into the world of milling machines.

What is a Knee Mill?

Let”s start with the basics. A knee mill is a type of milling machine that has a vertically-adjustable table resting on a knee that can be moved up and down. This allows the workpiece to be positioned under the cutting tool, which can then be moved in multiple directions to remove material and create the desired shape. Knee mills are typically used to produce precision parts, such as those needed for the aerospace and medical industries.

The Origin of the Term “Knee Mill”:

Now that we know what a knee mill is, let”s explore the origin of the term. The name “knee mill” comes from the fact that the machine”s table is mounted on a knee that can be raised or lowered by turning a hand crank. This knee is typically located on the column of the machine, which is why knee mills are often referred to as “bridgeport-style” mills, after the Bridgeport brand that popularized this design.

The Function of the Knee:

The knee is a critical part of the knee mill”s design, as it allows for precise and versatile positioning of the workpiece. The knee can be raised or lowered to adjust the height of the workpiece relative to the cutting tool, and it can also be swiveled or tilted to angle the workpiece as needed. This makes the knee a highly flexible and adaptable component, which is essential for achieving the high levels of precision and accuracy required in modern manufacturing.

Other Types of Milling Machines:

While knee mills are a popular type of milling machine, there are many other types as well. Some of the most common include:

– Bed mills: Similar to knee mills, but with a fixed table rather than a movable knee.
– Turret mills: Have a turret that can rotate to bring multiple cutting tools into position.
– Horizontal mills: Position the cutting tool horizontally rather than vertically.

Each of these types of milling machines has its own strengths and weaknesses, and is best suited for particular types of tasks.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the term “knee mill” refers to a type of milling machine that has a vertically-adjustable table mounted on a knee that can be raised or lowered. This design allows for precise and versatile positioning of the workpiece, making knee mills highly useful in a variety of manufacturing applications. While there are many other types of milling machines, the knee mill remains a popular and versatile option for precision machining. Hopefully, this article has provided some insight into the fascinating world of machining and manufacturing.