Proxxon or microlux

[CPDDET]

Won't be long and I'll be in need of a bench top drill press.

 

I've been looking at Proxxon and Microlux. Both have available XY tables, machine vice and chuck. 

 

The top rpm on the Proxxon is higher, 8500 vs 6500 for the Microlux. Proxxon claimed their drill press can be used for milling as well. Don't see that claim for Microlux.

 

What's the opinion of those with experience with these tools?

 

Dave

[Gaetan Bordeleau]

probably Proxxon

14 hours ago, CPDDET said:

proxxon claimed their drill press can be used for milling as well

For micro milling not deep in soft metal or plastic or wood.

 

To use a drill press for milling is the best way to see  the vise dancing on the table.

[mtaylor]

You can use a mill for drilling but you shouldn't use a drill for milling.  The bearings on the drill are made for that.  

[CPDDET]

The more research I do the more it bears out what you say, Mark. 

If want a drill press, buy a drill press, if you want a milling machine, buy a milling machine.

 

Dave

[mtaylor]

Dave. 

I only have the mill, no drill press.   It works for when I to drill but so far, it hasn't been that often.

[Dr PR]

Drill presses are intended for vertical motion of the tool. As mentioned above, the bearings are designed for this. You can do simple milling with a drill press if you have a moveable X-Y table, but only for very light work. Horizontal movement of the work piece will stress the bearings, and eventually they will wear and the centering of the tool will become sloppy.

 

A milling machine is just a more sophisticated drill press that is designed for cutting in the horizontal and vertical directions. But milling machines have much higher precision than drill presses. Some mills have motorized tables to achieve a very constant rate of movement for fine finishes. They have variable speed motors to allow matching tool speed with the type of material being machined. The tables usually have provision for lubricant collection. They have more precise horizontal controls, often with digital readouts for very precise cutting. And there are accessories that allow an amazing variety of operations - often at an amazing additional cost!

 

So what do you want to do? Drilling, or drilling and milling? Select the proper tool for the job.