Lathe vs Milling Machines: What’s the Difference?

Lathe and milling machines are essential pieces of equipment in the manufacturing industry. Both deliver premium quality results in the cutting and removal of materials from a workpiece. However, each has its own unique functions and systems, which means one machine may be better suited to your business than the other. 

If you’re confused about the differences between lathe and milling machines, we can help. At DTS, we are respected suppliers of precision machine tools with a wide range of products and the expertise to know how they work. To help you make a decision, you can find all the most important information about lathe and milling machines here, including the fundamental differences you need to know.

Definition of Lathes and Milling Machines 

Before we discuss the differences between these two machines, we need to define each piece of equipment. This will give you a clear understanding of each tool before we dive into the nuances of how they work, what they’re best used for, and which might be the right option. 

What is a Lathe Machine?

Often, the lathe machine is referred to as ‘the mother of all machines’, so you can imagine it’s a pretty versatile piece of equipment. It is also one of the most widely used machines across the globe, a testament to its quality and ability! 

A lathe machine rotates a workpiece on an axis in order to perform a variety of functions, like cutting, facing, knurling and more. It is also popular for its ability to be used with a range of different material types, including metal and wood, making it a popular choice across various industries. 

What is a Milling Machine?

A milling machine uses cutters to rotate around the workpiece to remove materials to reach a desired shape. Its expert precision makes it popular for use in industries and factories to make products of all variations of sizes and shapes. 

These machines can cut, drill and bore into a material in the process of milling, as its name suggests. Its purpose is to remove excess material in chips powered by a high-speed rotation.

5 Differences Between Lathes & Milling Machines 

So, from just the definition of each of these popular machines, it can be confusing which to choose. After all, they both work towards the end result of removing material to shape a workpiece. But while the result may be similar, there are five distinct differences between lathes and milling machines that we have broken down.

1. How They Work 

In a nutshell, lathe and milling machines work in a way that is fundamentally opposite from each other. 

For example, a lathe machine utilises a cutting tool that remains completely stationary throughout the whole process. Instead, the workpiece is rotated around the cutting tool to shape the material and remove excess. It features a tool holder that keeps the cutting tool in place with tightened security that ensures it can not move. The chuck holds the workpiece on the headstock to rotate it continuously. 

This is completely different from a milling machine which works by the cutting tool rotating at high speed via a spindle or arbour. Without this rotation, the cutting tool has no movement around the workpiece held on the machine’s table. The table movement feeds the workpiece towards the cutter, enabling the desired shape to be formed. 

2. What They’re Used For 

The lathe and milling machines can be used for various purposes and operations. For example, a lathe is typically used for; 

• Turning
• Thread Cutting
• Facing
• Knurling
• Boring
• Counterboring
• Cutting
• Drilling
• Reaming
• Spot Facing
• Sanding
• Chamfering

Whereas a milling machine is used for; 

• Facing
• Side milling
• Plain milling
• Sawmilling
• Threading
• Milling keyways, Grooves, and slots
• Helical milling
• Straddle milling
• Form milling
• Gang milling

3. Different Variations 

When it comes to machine types, both lathes and milling machines are available in a number of different variations. We have broken these down into two definitive lists. However, CNC lathes and milling machines achieve the most accurate results. Both machine types are available in a CNC option, which stands for computer numerically controlled. This means they use computer automation to achieve the same accurate results every time. 

Lathe Machine Variations:

• CNC Lathe
• Vertical Lathe
• Horizontal Lathe
• Speed lathe/Wood Lathe
• Engine lathe
• Capstan and Turret lathe
• Wheel Lathe
• Bench Type Jewelers Lathe
• Automatic Lathe
• Crankshaft Lathe
• Tool-Room Lathe

Milling Machine Variations:

• CNC Milling Machine
• Manufacturing or Bed-Type Milling Machine
• Horizontal Milling Machine
• Vertical Milling Machine
• Knee-Type Milling Machine
• Planner-Type Milling Machine
• Ram-Type Milling Machine

4. Cutting Tools 

Another key difference between lathe and milling machines is their cutting tools. Firstly, a lathe machine uses an insert cutter as the primary cutting tool. The tip of which can be removed and changed and is the key to cutting and shaping materials. 

In comparison, an insert tool is not a common feature of a milling machine. Instead, it uses an end mill which is useful as it can be operated at different speeds to achieve results as desired. 

5. What They’re Best For 

Finally, the difference between lathe and milling machines that you most likely want to know is what they’re best for. As each machine works in different ways and with other systems, it is clear that the results achieved by each will be different, so each is best used for various purposes. 

For cylindrical shapes and cutting, you should choose a lathe machine. These machines allow you to get more precise cuts as it is the workpieces that are moved around the cutting tool to shape the desired result. 

You should opt for a milling machine for projects requiring straight cuts and drilled holes. These are capable of a wide range of functions, including off-centre drilling and angled cuts not possible with a lathe. 

Which Lathe or Milling Machine Should you Choose? 

Now you understand the key differences between a lathe and a milling machine, you can make an informed decision on which to invest in for your industry. 

At DTS, we have a range of lathes available from GEMINIS, HONOR as well as Correa CNC milling machines. However, if you need more information, you can contact us and speak to a member of our expert team today, who will be happy to advise on the best piece of machinery’s four needs and requirements. 

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