A knee router is a type of milling machine that allows movement along the y-axis, making it suitable for larger objects. It uses milling tools to perform a variety of cutting and forming processes and has a fixed spindle for increased torque when drilling vertical holes.
A knee router is a type of router in which instead of the entire table being stationary, it is able to move along the y, or vertical, axis, a direction in which the workpiece can move relative to the milling tool that shapes it. This is different from standard milling machines, where the table can only move along both x, or horizontal, axes, and the head, consisting of the usually fixed upper slide and spindle, is responsible for all drilling and reaming movements along the axis y . The knee router is also different from most routers in its head, which can also move along an x-axis. Bridgeport cutters are knee cutters and, due to their movement capabilities, are able to accept a wide variety of part sizes.
All routers machine and shape metal in a similar way. Unlike a wood or metal lathe, where the workpiece spins at high RPM and is cut by a stationary tool, a milling machine does the exact opposite. This is where the workpiece is held in place and is clamped to the table, while the router tools spin at very high rpm to make precise cuts. The differences between types of milling machines usually lie in how the position of the workpiece is moved.
Also, like most routers, a knee router is capable of performing an incredible variety of cutting and forming processes. Some of these processes include surface machining, cutting, and grooving. Such a wide range of forming capabilities is possible through the use of milling tools, which are very similar to drill bits. These metalworking tools come in many different shapes and sizes, each cutting different sized shapes when used.
The knee cutter can be very useful when it comes to machining larger objects. In some scenarios, a moving spindle will not provide enough torque to drill vertical holes, a process also known as boring. Knee routers, on the other hand, have fixed spindles and all y-axis movement is done through the table the workpiece is on. This arrangement results in a significant increase in torque, making it possible to drill holes in harder material. Another advantage of the knee cutter is also the result of the vertical movement of the table, as even larger objects can be processed due to the increased height capacity.
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