A Guide to Broaching Machines

Broaching is a metalworking process that removes material from a surface with a toothed tool. Metal is detached from a surface by cutting shapes or holes into a surface. It is typically difficult to perform broaching without mechanical aid. Therefore, broaching machines have been devised in order to facilitate this process.

A broaching machine is a tool that is comprised of a cutter, also known as a broach, that is drawn over a surface. This broach possesses a series of cutting serrations that systematically process and cut designs into a product. In addition, a broaching machine is comprised of additional parts, which include the ram, the slide, and the hydraulic power unit. The ram carries the broach and moves vertically through the slide assembly, while the slide is a piece that guides the pieces through the system. Used in many applications, broaching machines are useful in many construction and production settings.

Types of Broaching Machines

Generally, broaching machines are distinguished by two types of motions, vertical and horizontal. These motions will play a role in how the machine is operated, and the types of strokes that are used during the broaching process.

Vertical broaching can be used for four different types of broaching processes: push broaching, pull-down broaching, pull-up broaching, and surface broaching. Vertical broaching machines designed with a certain process will possess a particular combination of components, according to the type of broach, slide, and ram. A pull-up broaching machine was the first type of broaching system to enter the market, and is mainly used for creating round and irregular holes. Pull-down machines, on the other hand, possess a more sophisticated design, and are able to cut different types of shapes. Finally, surface broaching machines are capable of large scale projects, and are mainly used in the automotive industry.

Horizontal broaching machines are also capable of four different types of processes: pull broaching, surface broaching, continuous broaching, and rotary broaching. Pull broaching machines possess a similar design to vertical machines, aside from the alignment and longer stroke style. Surface broaching machines are designed to process large amounts of inventory, and are able to produce a consistent volume of work. Finally, continuous broaching machines are one of the most popular types of broaching machinery, and are commonly used in many high-production applications. The components and the tools in the machine remain stationary, while the pieces are run through them.