Gantry milling machines and gantry machining centers are both large CNC machine tools. Both are suitable for processing large workpieces, such as large sheet metal parts or box parts and molds. The difference between the two is reflected in:
I. Different Applications
- Gantry Milling Machine: Suitable for machining flat and inclined surfaces of large workpieces in batch and mass production.
- Gantry Machining Center: Suitable for machining large workpieces and workpieces with complex shapes.
II. Differences in Function and Structure
- Gantry Milling Machine: The crossbeam and column are mounted on a milling cutter head with a spindle box, not a planer cutter head. Furthermore, the reciprocating motion of the longitudinal table of a gantry milling machine is not the primary motion, but the feed motion, while the rotation of the milling cutter is the primary motion.
- Gantry Machining Center: The worktable of a gantry machining center is essentially rectangular. Large castings such as the worktable, bed, column, crossbeam, and ram are made of cast iron or welded. The castings feature a complex honeycomb structure with an advanced design. All castings undergo aging and secondary tempering to eliminate residual internal stresses and stabilize the material, ensuring
III. Whether it is equipped with a tool magazine is also the main difference
- Gantry Milling Machine: The crossbeam and column are mounted on a milling cutter head with a spindle box, not a planer cutter head. Furthermore, the reciprocating motion of the longitudinal worktable of a gantry milling machine is not the primary motion, but the feed motion, while the rotation of the milling cutter is the primary motion.
- Gantry Machining Center: The worktable of a gantry machining center is essentially rectangular. Large castings such as the worktable, bed, column, crossbeam, and ram are made of cast iron or welded. The interior of the castings features a honeycomb composite structure with an advanced design. All castings undergo aging and secondary tempering to eliminate residual internal stresses and stabilize the material, ensuring consistent workpiece machining accuracy and machine tool life.
