Harold Hall
Metalworking
Workshop Set Ups
Dividing on the milling machine, Setups. Harold Hall
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In terms of its setup, and the actual machining process, dividing is a relatively easy in most cases. However, choosing the division plate and the number of holes to be traversed is far from easy. In this case, whilst it can be determined mathematically, most will rely on published information on the subject.
For more details see my pages on dividing methods or for even more information my book “Dividing”
Photos 1 and 2 show a Semi Universal Dividing Head being used. These are the most common if purchasing one but are very expensive and more capable than most require. Photos 3 and 4 use my basic dividing head which many find quite adequate for the home workshop. LINK
Very occasionally, working between centres will be necessary, Photo 5, but whilst similar to working between centres on the lathe it is essential to ensure there is no play between the driver and driven part of the assembly. Photo 6 shows how this is achieved and how it differs from the method when working with centres on the lathe.
Photo 7 is included to show that a dividing head is not always necessary. The small plate is used to provide two, three (adjacent) or four divisions. A large hexagonal nut will provide two, three or six. In neither case does the setting piece have to be concentric with the workpiece. Other simple methods are shown on my pages regarding dividing methods. LINK
For those who would like the ability of the Semi Universal Head ,but cannot justify the expense, then my full function dividing head, Photos 8 and 9, could be considered. Unlike the Semi Universal head where the worm/wormwheel ratio is fixed, this can be changed achieving more divisions than with the commercial item. LINK
Do also see the setup page regarding dividing on the lathe as some of the methods are also relevant to the milling machine.
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All pictures can be clicked on to provide a larger view
