Quite often, consumers are wondering if there are universal milling machines with which you can perform all the necessary operations. To solve this problem, it is necessary to test several models that are time-tested.
Feature Selection
Among the main qualities that should be present in a universal milling installation, it should be noted:
- power;
- soft start motor;
- good balance;
- the possibility of easy and smooth immersion;
- accessibility of governing bodies;
- a complete set of useful and popular accessories.
A universal tool will be in the case when its power allows you to work with any cutters, the largest ones should be included here. If we are talking about the motor, then we must take into account that it must have a smooth start and have constant electronics. This is necessary to maintain a certain speed when the equipment is under load.
Extra features
Important and convenient controls that can be used in manual mode. Experts consider the device to be universal when the operator has the opportunity to smoothly immerse the cutter in the workpiece. The controls should be located conveniently, the milling cutter should be adjusted when using the table. The equipment also needs to be taken into account, it should include:
- nozzles for the vacuum cleaner;
- lateral emphasis;
- interchangeable bases with holes;
- copy sleeve;
- alignment building;
- Durable storage bag or plastic case.
What models of universal milling tools are worth considering
Makita universal milling machines are known not only to specialists, but also to private consumers. However, the following models can be considered as alternative solutions:
- Bosch MRC23EVS.
- Triton TRA001.
- Ridgid R29302.
- Triton MOF 001 C.
- Craftsman 28084.
- Milwaukee 5616-24.
- Porter-Cable 895PK.
- Bosch 1617EVSPK.
- Freud FT3000VCE.
Some of them will be discussed below, while others, those that do not participate in testing, you can purchase if you want to choose a truly universal device.
The choice of a universal model in terms of power
Universal milling cutters, as mentioned above, must have sufficient power. To compare some models, it is necessary to try to make shaped profiles, nests and a figured profile with their help in oak blanks. Sockets for example will have a depth and width that are 38 and 13 mm, respectively. As for the shaped profile, it will need to be done in the amount of 3 units in one pass.
To check the power, it is recommended to make a quick manual feed of the fold, the cross section of which is 11x13 mm. When performing these works, many models are able to impress with their work without overload, even with manual feeding. But to create a profile for a couple of approaches there is an opportunity with the help of not all tools. Three models stand out in this matter: Triton TRA001, Freud FT3000VCE and Bosch MRC23EVS. The engines of these three options have a power of more than 2 kW.
The choice of a universal model for cutter speed and speed
When considering universal milling cutters, it is necessary to pay special attention to the cutter speed and speed. For most models, the speed ranges from 8000 to 10,000 rpm. However, models from the manufacturer Craftsman differ in that their lowest speed is 12,000 rpm. Experts still argue that it is preferable to choose options with a lower number of revolutions for working with wood, which is prone to chip formation.
The Ridgid model, which did not slow down by more than 35, is able to surprise more than the others in this matter. This fact is surprising, considering that its motor is the most powerful among the competitors presented. However, in this model, the current consumption increases during the tests, which entails a temperature increase of 3 ° C after each pass. If you work with such a load for a long time, then the life of the milling cutter will be reduced. For comparison, the Bosch MRC23EVS model should be cited, the current consumption of which increases only slightly, and the heating is not noticeable.
Tool selection by milling depth
In the market today you can find small and large milling machines, submersible or with a fixed base. However, when choosing universal milling cutters, it is necessary to pay attention to those tools with which it will be possible to accurately and quickly, as well as conveniently adjust the selection of recesses. Among the options with a fixed base in the first place should be put the Porter-Cable model, which has a regulator with a gear rack. This model has a handwheel for fine and coarse tuning, as well as a latch, the first of which is convenient for use.
Ridgid and Milwaukee have mechanisms for quick setup and, as practice shows, they are very effective. If we compare the Craftsman models with each other, then both have fixed bases, in addition, like Bosch, the fixation is carried out with a latch to the body recess. This reduces the amount of movement of the collet, and if you want to extend the cutter or reduce the overhang, then you have to rearrange the latch and use the threaded regulator. Triton submersible milling machines have a fairly coarse depth setting, which is provided by turning the knob. It is used for immersion in the material, but this function is not only inconvenient, but also difficult to perform.
Model selection for ease of control
The universal manual wood milling machine should not only be precisely and simply adjusted, but also be distinguished by ease of operation. Tools of the Triton TRA001 and Freuda brands are too heavy, in addition, they are prone to tipping over due to the impressive mass, they are clumsy, which is noticeable when working with the edges of workpieces. Bosch MRC23EVS weighs even more, but has a low center of gravity and is highly controllable compared to large immersion tools. This model has another feature, which is expressed in a switch built into the handle.
Other options for turning off and on have to release one of the handles, while weakening the grip. The Bosch model has the same switch that is present in specialized immersion tools, so it is easy to control and the operator does not have to change the position of his hands.
Alternative solutions for universal milling machines
Makita is one of the most popular manufacturers in the current market for electrical equipment; its universal milling cutter RP 2300 FC has a support platform made of cast aluminum. This not only lightens the weight of the tool, but also protects the equipment from scratches. This device has a function for adjusting the speed, and the working stroke of the cutter is 70 mm. The power of the device is 2300 W, it has a smooth start, but there is no built-in nozzle for a vacuum cleaner.
If you are interested in universal double-base milling machines, then you should pay attention to the FELISATTI RF62 / 1500VE model, which costs 14,800 rubles. This tool is a multifunctional equipment that has a submersible and edge base. This model can be installed on a milling table, which allows you to get a stationary full-featured tool with height adjustment. This Felisatti universal milling machine weighs only 3.1 kg and the collet diameter can be 8 or 12 mm.
The milling cutter "Interskol" is also quite often chosen by consumers. As an example, we can consider the model FM-32 / 1900E, the cost of which is 6700 rubles. The power of the device is 1900 W, there is a soft start, and the number of revolutions per minute varies from 9000 to 26 000. This Interskol milling cutter is characterized by a milling stroke of 40 mm.