What does the knee do on a vertical milling machine?

The knee on a vertical milling machine plays a crucial role in supporting the table, which is essential for the machine's operation. It is an adjustable component that allows the operator to raise or lower the table to accommodate various workpiece heights or to change the depth of cut during milling operations. This adjustability is fundamental to achieving accurate and precise machining results.

By having the knee support the table, it provides stability and ensures that the table can be moved smoothly without compromising the alignment or the setup of the workpiece being machined. The design of the milling machine allows for these movements, making it an integral part of the milling process. Understanding the function of the knee helps operators to effectively use the milling machine and achieve desired machining outcomes.