Which direction does the Y-axis on a vertical mill represent?

The Y-axis on a vertical mill represents the crossfeed table movement, which is the side-to-side motion of the table that holds the workpiece. In the context of milling, this axis allows the tool to move horizontally across the workpiece to perform operations like cutting, drilling, or contouring. Understanding the coordinate system of a vertical mill is essential for effectively programming and operating the machine, ensuring precision in machining tasks.

The Y-axis being associated with crossfeed movement is fundamental in distinguishing it from other axes, such as the X-axis, which indicates longitudinal movement (movement along the length of the table), and the Z-axis, which represents vertical movement (up and down movement of the spindle). Recognizing the role of each axis enhances the operator's ability to execute complex milling operations with accuracy.