Milling machines - Types - Universal milling machine
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A universal milling machine is capable of a wider range of motion than a typical milling machine. For example, it can be made to perform both vertically and horizontally, while most other types of milling machines are usually able to handle one or the other. Universal machines can manage different kinds of tasks, such as using both a table feed and an indexing head. They can also perform work that was not originally done via machine, or possibly even in the same workroom, such as filing.

The specific capabilities of this type of milling machine can vary widely. They can be made to handle precision work or less exacting projects. The mechanism may be manual or semiautomatic. They also come in several different sizes, depending on the number of features and the nature of the work to be performed. There are also infinite combinations of functions, feed types, and other features which can be customized on a universal milling machine.

The basic operation is that the vertical head an be removed and the over arm can be adjusted to accommodate the arbour in the horizontal spindle.

By doing this a wide range of horizontal cutters can be accommodated on the arbour.