Horizontal & Vertical Broaching
Horizontal Broaching
Horizontal broaching refers to the type of machine that is used to broach a piece part. The machines used in this process were the first ones to be developed, and are still the most common of all. V W Broaching Service has a wide variety of these types of machines, each distinguished by its length of cut (a direct function of its total stroke) and tonnage. V W can cut up to 84 inches in length using one pass, with a maximum tonnage of 25. Past and present manufacturers of horizontal broaching machines include: Acme, American, Colonial, and Oil Gear. While most horizontal broaching machines are hydraulically operated, some also use electro-mechanical, pneumatic, and mechanical power. Horizontal broaching machines are typically used to cut internal shapes and forms, such as keyways; however, they can also be tooled to cut externals.
Vertical Broaching
Vertical broaching refers to the type of machine that is used to broach a piece part. These machines come in many varieties and adaptations, but in general any machine in which the ram is mounted vertically, instead of horizontally, is classified as a vertical broaching machine. In the case of surface broaching, the ram, which carries its broaching tools mounted in holders, typically moves past the piece part. The piece part is secured in a fixture using hydraulic or mechanical clamps. Some traditional vertical broaching machines are dual- ram, meaning that there are actually two rams mounted on the same machine, and sharing the same hydraulic and mechanical systems. In many cases the part is secured in a shuttle table or swing table, so that the operator can load one piece to be machined, while the other ram is cutting another piece at the same time. Dual-ram vertical broaching machines can also be used to cut two or more successive operations on the same part.
Vertical broaching machines can also be used to cut internal shapes and forms, and can perform very much like traditional horizontal machines. In each case either the piece part is secured while the broaching tool moves past it, or the broach itself is secured while the piece part travels on a table. The former type of machine can be either of the vertical pull-down or pull-up variety (referring to the motion of the broaching tool). The latter is typically referred to as a table-up vertical broaching machine. There are many advantages to using vertical broaching in internal applications, including the tendency to better hold tolerances.
Contact V W Broaching to learn more about our specialty broaching and Wire EDM services!
