What does the term "table travel" refer to in milling?

The term "table travel" in milling specifically refers to the distance that the table can move in the X or Y direction. This is crucial for the milling process, as it determines the range of motion available when positioning the workpiece under the cutting tool. Proper table travel allows for precise adjustments, enabling machinists to mill workpieces accurately and efficiently.

Understanding table travel is essential for setting up milling operations, as it helps operators plan their cuts and ensure that the machining center can adequately accommodate the size and shape of the workpiece being machined. The distance that the table can travel directly influences the machining capabilities of the mill, affecting factors such as the size of the parts that can be produced and the complexities of the milling operations that can be performed.