Millwright Level 1 Practice Exam

What describes conventional milling?

1. Feeds into the rotation of the cutter

2. Feeds against the rotation of the cutter

3. Utilizes faster cutting speeds

4. Less likely to lift the workpiece

The correct answer is: Feeds against the rotation of the cutter

Conventional milling, also known as up milling, is characterized by the feed direction being against the rotation of the cutter. This means that as the cutter moves in a clockwise direction, the material being cut is fed toward the cutter from the opposite direction. This method leads to a gradual engagement of the cutter's teeth with the material, starting from a point where the cutting edge meets the workpiece and leaving the cut as the cutter exits. This action creates a smoother finish and can effectively remove material without immediate excessive force. Additionally, this approach helps avoid potential lifting of the workpiece, as the initial bite into the material tends to clamp it down, rather than raise it. Understanding this aspect of conventional milling is crucial for achieving optimal results when it comes to surface finish and tool life.