Milling, drilling, turning, and internal slotting in a single setup
Internal slotting is a machining process used to produce internal keyways and internal profiles. Material is removed by the linear reciprocating motion of a single-point cutting tool. Cutting takes place only during the forward stroke, while the required slot depth is achieved through incremental feed movements.
On our VHC traveling column machining center, drilling, milling, turning, and internal slotting can all be performed in a single setup. The slotting tool is mounted in a dedicated turning tool holder positioned beside the main spindle. As a result, the workpiece no longer needs to be transferred or re-clamped between machining operations. It remains in the same position throughout the entire manufacturing process.
This key advantage ensures exceptional dimensional and positional accuracy. Since all machining operations are carried out within the same reference setup, the positions of drilled holes, milled features, and internal keyways are perfectly aligned. Customers particularly benefit from highly repeatable precision and significantly reduced setup and machining times when producing keyways, Woodruff keyways, and custom internal profiles.
No spindle load thanks to a separate tool holding system
Unlike conventional solutions, the slotting tool on our machines is not mounted directly in the main spindle. Instead, it is clamped in a hydraulically actuated turning tool holder permanently mounted beside the work spindle and equipped with an automatic clamping system.
This dedicated tool holding unit provides maximum rigidity while preventing additional loads on the main spindle bearings. The alternating cutting forces generated during the slotting process are absorbed by the specially designed holder rather than being transmitted to the spindle. As a result, the main spindle tool interface—designed primarily for drilling and milling tools—is protected from the impact loads associated with slotting. This increases process reliability and contributes to the long-term durability of the machine.
Key Benefits at a Glance
- Milling, drilling, turning, and internal slotting in a single setup
- No workpiece re-clamping between machining operations
- Maximum positional accuracy between drilled holes, milled features, and internal keyways
- Reduced setup times and more economical production
- Protection of the main spindle through a dedicated slotting tool holder
- High process reliability thanks to a rigid and stable tool guidance system
With this solution, we combine the flexibility of modern CNC machining with the advantages of internal slotting. Complex components can be fully machined on a single machine—efficiently, accurately, and without additional re-clamping operations.