• What should you know before using a milling machine?
• What are some safe work principles to follow when using a milling machine?
• Before starting the machine, what should you check?
• What should you consider when setting the cutting speed?
• What are some things you should avoid doing?

What should you know before using a milling machine?

Milling machines can be dangerous if not used properly.

• Read the owner's manual carefully.
• Make sure you understand instructions and are properly trained before operating a milling machine.

Refer to Metalworking Machines - General for basic safety tips.

What are some safe work principles to follow when using a milling machine?

• Wear appropriate safety glasses.
• Ensure that the milling machine has a start/stop button within easy reach of the operator.
• Ensure that the work piece and cutter are mounted securely before taking a cut.
• Check that work is mounted squarely.
• Mount work in a vise that is bolted or held magnetically to the table. Use proper hand tools to make adjustments. Refer to Hand Tools for more information.
• Hold milling cutters with a cloth to avoid being cut when handling them.
• Move table as far as possible from cutter while setting up work to avoid injuring your hands.
• Mill the largest surface first.
• Keep hands, brushes and rags away from the revolving milling cutter.
• Use a vacuum, brush or rake to remove cuttings only after the cutters have stopped moving.
• Change cutting compounds periodically.
• Keep cutters sharpened correctly and in good condition.
• Keep working surface clear of scraps, tools and materials.
• Remove cutting tools from spindle when cleaning the machine.
• Keep floor around the milling machine free of oil and grease.
• Use lifting equipment when appropriate to move heavy work to or from milling machines. Refer to Materials Handling for more information.
• Make sure the power is off before changing cutters.
• Always stay at the machine when it is in operation.

Before starting the machine, what should you check?

Before starting, make sure that:

• all guards are in place;
• work is properly secured in place;
• bolts used to hold down work clear the tooling;
• tooling and supporting pieces are properly tightened in position;
• table stops are secured properly;
• handles on all feed screws are in neutral;
• table is free of stock, tools or other loose material;
• the arbor and arbor support are clear of the work;
• the cutter is rotating in the right direction.

What should you consider when setting the cutting speed?

Ensure that the following factors are considered when setting cutting speed:

• material to be machined;
• type of cutter;
• finish required;
• depth of cut;
• rigidity of machine and work piece.

What are some things you should avoid doing?

• Do not wear gloves, rings, watches or loose clothing. Tie back long hair.
• Do not attempt to mount, measure or adjust work until cutter is completely stopped.
• Do not use an excessively heavy cut or feed as it can cause the cutter to break. The flying pieces could cause serious injury.
• Do not reach over or near a revolving cutter. Keep hands at least 30 cm (12 in.) from a revolving cutter.
• Do not lean or rest hands on a moving table.
• Do not make any adjustments while the machine is running.
• Do not use paper shims to check the distance from the cutter to the stock.
• Do not move the operating levers without knowing what they control and what action is going to take place.
• Do not leave machine unattended while it is running.

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Document last updated on August 8, 2011

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