Milling tools occupy a rather dense, but still specific segment in the construction equipment market. For the most part, such devices are presented in the form of models for professional tasks. But recently the category of home analogs has expanded, which have not so impressive technical potential, but have many other advantages. In particular, the Bosch POF 1200 AE milling machine demonstrates that a low-cost, compact and easy-to-use tool can perform complex machining tasks under the control of a lay person.
The purpose of the milling machine
The presence of the POF 1200 AE machine in the household allows you to cope with operations that previously could only be performed in specialized workshops in factories. If you have the basic knowledge of material processing, the user will be able to form edges according to the specified parameters, mill grooves, and also cut shaped parts. At the same time, the quality of processing will be high, and the workflow comfortable. In any case, this is the position of the machine manufacturer. Since the Bosch vertical milling machine is equipped with control electronics, the master gets the ability to adjust the speed of the work item. For this, the accelerator function in the adjustment wheel is intended. High ergonomics of the equipment are provided by the integrated spindle lock. This makes it possible to quickly and easily replace milling cutters. In general, the machine is designed for a wide range of light building materials, which are most often handled by home craftsmen. In particular, it can be wood or various types of plastic.
Machine Specifications
On the market you can also find models of milling machines with higher performance indicators, but not all of them correspond to the quality of Bosch products. The tool, in turn, has the following characteristics:
- The mass of the unit is 3.4 kg.
- Rated power - 1,200 watts.
- The output power indicator is 650 watts.
- The diameter of the cartridge is 6 mm.
- The number of revolutions per minute is a maximum of 28,000.
- Cutter stroke - 5.5 cm.
It is also worth noting the low performance in terms of noise and vibration, which favorably affects comfort during operation.
Features and Benefits
Among the main advantages, the accuracy of product formation is highlighted, which is achieved by the wide possibilities for setting up the Bosch unit. The tool is provided with a scale that allows you to adjust the milling depth. This allows you to choose the optimal processing mode of the material, taking into account its characteristics and requirements for the result. A depth limiter is also provided, which can be controlled using a special screw. Under the hardness and rigidity of the workpiece, the number of revolutions is also adjusted by the corresponding wheel. The speed is stabilized by the integrated electronic system.
Separately, it is worth noting the proprietary development of a German company - SDS technology, which allows you to perform work in copy milling mode. In addition, the Bosch POF 1200 AE provides tools for convenience and safety during operation. The presence of two handles with a strong protective coating will not allow you to lose control over the machine, and a high-strength transparent cover protects the user from chips.
Equipment
The manufacturer richly complements the apparatus, allowing even in the private sector to perform an extensive range of processing functions. The equipment also includes devices for the technical adjustment of mechanisms, and parts for the immediate working tasks of the Bosch POF 1200 AE machine, the equipment of which contains the following elements:
- Horn wrench.
- Suction adapter
- Copier.
- Centering rod.
- Parallel emphasis.
- Grooving 8 mm cutter.
- 3 collet chucks
The cutters included in the set are represented by bodies of revolution with teeth, which vary in shape. In particular, grooved, conical, conical and spherical elements are provided for different tasks. In addition to traditional slot milling, the Bosch POF 1200 AE allows you to remove burrs and adjust chamfers.
Milling Maintenance
To begin with, it is worth noting some recommendations that will minimize the risks of breakdowns and act as preventive measures. For example, before setting up the equipment and replacing the cutters, it is necessary to disconnect the plug from the outlet. Proper storage of the unit in a dry place inaccessible to children and inexperienced users should also be ensured. Regularly check the progress of the working parts and components that are supplied with the Bosch POF 1200 AE milling cutter. The instruction instructs not to use deformed or damaged cutters. All components and components must be kept in a clean and functionally ready condition. Mandatory maintenance of cleanliness also applies to the ventilation slots of the appliance. The protective insulation is adversely affected by the use of the tool in working with metal. The accumulation of electrically conductive dust should be prevented even during processing. For this, a stationary suction unit is used, which allows blowing ventilation slots.
How much is?
On the market, the unit occupies a rather attractive niche. This applies to both cost and technical capacity. The tool can be positioned as a mid-range model, which combines the optimal set of functions and good performance. In any case, Bosch POF 1200 AE is not a budget solution. The price of the device varies between 5–5.5 thousand rubles. For comparison, the initial level of tools in this category starts at 3 thousand rubles. Actually, in terms of functionality, the German instrument is not far from the cheapest devices, but in terms of reliability it wins significantly. It is also worth noting the highest price level. If we consider models from manufacturers of the Bosch level, then prices can vary from 10 to 15 thousand rubles. However, these are devices with wider options, high performance and additional features. Against the general background, the unit looks good - it is a solid inexpensive milling cutter that justifies its cost, but in the workflow of a seasoned master he is unlikely to surprise with his technical data.
Positive reviews
The opinions of users about the tool largely correspond to the characteristics of the manufacturer. The device is convenient in operation and holds well in hands, which allows you to efficiently perform tasks on processing various materials. The electronic add-ons with Bosch POF 1200 AE adjustment options also contribute to success. Reviews also distinguish the device from the general series due to high-quality assembly. This is especially felt by lovers of cheap Chinese counterparts who sin with backlashes and strong vibration. The German milling cutter wins due to reliability in operation, and at its price. The operational advantages include power. Although the device is oriented to work with wood and plastic, metal is no exception to it. As mentioned above, with certain conditions, and such blanks can be processed.
Negative reviews
Unfortunately, those who expect Bosch premium technology from this tool will disappoint. Judging by the basic parameters, the device is fully consistent with its class. At the same time, neither in functionality nor in ergonomics will the manufacturer especially please. Users complain about the lack of technological solutions that have long been familiar. For example, soft start and milling cutter illumination - these features are not available in the Bosch POF 1200 AE. Reviews note completely offensive flaws. In particular, the scale with the depth limiter in some instances does not coincide with the real indicators. This is a gross violation, due to which the operator can get the result in the form of a product with serious deviations from the required values.
Operation tips
The key to high-quality milling of workpieces is the use of work items that are suitable in size and shape. By the way, violation of this rule can provoke a wedge, which, in turn, will lead to an imbalance of equipment. Although it has already been noted that the handles are quite tenacious, processing on the Bosch POF 1200 AE should be done with only two hands for greater reliability. In general, experts recommend using a vice to fix the workpiece. Especially when it comes to important work in order to obtain high accuracy in the formation of edges and grooves. It is possible to loosen the fixation in the hands or vice only if the equipment stops completely. The slightest loss of proper control can lead to disastrous consequences, even injuries, not to mention device breakdowns, which are also not uncommon when deviating from the manufacturer's recommendations.
Conclusion
If you need a milling cutter to solve simple problems in everyday life, then the model will be worthy of attention. Relatively high productivity, a basic set of functions and price are the qualities that made the POF 1200 AE Bosch milling machine widespread. But if you raise the bar of requirements, then the solid German origin of the appliance will not save. This is not the best option for a worker who is professionally engaged in milling. The device as a whole is good, but only as a universal tool. In the market, its success is supported by a low price. If we compare with competitors, it may well turn out that a lesser-known brand will offer a better product. However, in practice this rarely happens, and to improve the quality of the tool, most likely, you will have to add a few thousand.