What characterizes "conventional milling"?

Conventional milling is characterized by the cutter rotating against the direction of the feed. This means that as the cutter moves downward into the workpiece, the feed moves the material in the same direction, resulting in a process where the initial contact is made on the cutting edge of the tool. This method allows for better chip removal and can provide a smoother finish due to the way the tool engages the material.

When the cutter enters the material, it tends to pull the workpiece down into the cut, which can also help in stabilizing the milling operation by reducing vibrations. Additionally, this approach can be beneficial when working with softer materials or when maximizing tool longevity is necessary.

In contrast, other milling methods, such as climb milling, involve the cutter moving in the same direction as the feed and can lead to different outcomes in terms of tool wear and finish quality. Understanding this distinction is crucial for effective milling operations.