CNC Horizontal Machining

Why Choose Horizontal Over Vertical Machining?

At Istar Machining, we offer both types of machining, but here’s why horizontal might be better for your project:

• Cuts parts from multiple sides without repositioning
• Chips fall away from the cutting area, not back onto it
• Works 24/7 with automatic pallet changers
• Makes parts faster with less setup time
• Handles heavier parts with strong support systems

One customer told us they cut their machining time in half by switching from vertical to horizontal machining for their automotive parts!

Key Features of Our CNC Horizontal Machining Centers

Who Benefits Most from Horizontal Machining?

1. Aerospace Industry

When making engine blocks and turbine blades for aircraft, precision is a matter of safety. Our horizontal machines can work with tough materials like titanium while keeping tight tolerances.

“The 4-axis capability of Istar’s horizontal machines let us make complex aerospace parts in one setup that used to take three separate operations.” – Aerospace customer

2. Automotive Manufacturing

For automotive parts machining, horizontal machines excel at making transmission housings and engine blocks faster and more accurately. The ability to machine multiple sides in one setup means your parts get done quicker and fit together better the first time.

3. Medical Equipment

When making surgical instruments and medical devices, the high precision of horizontal machining ensures parts meet strict medical standards. The enclosed machining area also keeps parts clean during production, which is very important for medical uses.

4. Energy Sector

Our horizontal machines make short work of hydraulic valve bodies and other energy machining components that need perfect sealing surfaces. The heavy-duty construction handles the tough materials used in the energy industry with ease.

5. Heavy Machinery

For large cast iron gears and structural components, horizontal machines offer the strength and stability needed for heavy parts up to 2,200 pounds.

Multi-Plane Machining: The Big Advantage

One of the biggest benefits of horizontal machining is multi-plane machining. This means we can cut your part from several sides in one setup.

With 5-axis machining capabilities on our horizontal centers, we can:

• Cut complex curves and angles
• Reach hard-to-access features
• Make parts that would be impossible on simpler machines
• Reduce setup time by up to 60%

Technical Details That Make a Difference

Automated Pallet Changers

Our machines come with 2-4 pallet systems that automatically swap out finished parts for new ones. This means:

• The machine never stops cutting
• Your parts get done faster
• We can run jobs overnight without anyone there
• You save money on labor costs

Superior Chip Evacuation

Unlike vertical machines where chips can pile up on the workpiece, our horizontal machines let chips fall away naturally. This:

• Extends tool life
• Improves surface finish
• Reduces heat buildup
• Allows for faster cutting speeds

High-Speed Spindles

With spindle speeds of 12,000–15,000 RPM, we can cut aluminum, titanium, and cast iron with the perfect combination of speed and finish quality. These high-speed spindles are ideal for both rough cutting and fine finishing work.

Real-World Applications

Here are some examples of parts we commonly make with horizontal machining:

• Aerospace engine blocks with complex internal passages
• Automotive transmission housings with precise gear mounting surfaces
• Medical device components requiring ultra-smooth surfaces
• Hydraulic manifolds with intersecting internal channels
• Large mold bases for plastic injection molding

Practical Benefits for Your Bottom Line

Switching to horizontal machining at Istar Machining can bring real financial benefits:

• 40% faster cycle times compared to vertical machining
• Fewer setups mean less labor cost
• Less scrap with more accurate first-time production
• Lights-out machining for overnight production without added labor
• Longer tool life means lower tooling costs

Industry 4.0 Integration

Our horizontal machining centers come equipped with the latest smart features:

• Real-time monitoring lets you check job status from your phone
• Adaptive toolpaths automatically adjust for optimal cutting
• Predictive maintenance alerts help prevent unexpected downtime
• Production data analysis helps find ways to improve efficiency

Materials We Machine Horizontally

Our horizontal machines excel at working with a wide range of materials:

• Aluminum – From soft 6061 to aircraft-grade 7075
• Steel – Mild steel to hardened tool steel
• Titanium – For aerospace and medical applications
• Cast Iron – For heavy-duty components
• Stainless Steel – For corrosion resistance
• Plastics – From delrin to PEEK

Getting Started with Horizontal Machining

Ready to see how horizontal machining can improve your parts and save you money? Here’s how to get started with Istar Machining:

1. Send us your part drawings – We’ll analyze them for horizontal machining suitability
2. Get a free quote – We’ll show you the cost and time savings
3. First article inspection – We’ll make a sample part for your approval
4. Production run – We’ll make your parts to specification
5. Ongoing support – We’re here to help with design changes and reorders

Why Choose Istar Machining for Your Horizontal Machining Needs?

• 25+ years experience in precision machining
• Latest technology horizontal machining centers
• ISO 9001 certified quality management system
• 24/7 production capability
• Engineering support to optimize your parts for manufacturing
• Competitive pricing with no hidden fees

Ready to Transform Your Manufacturing?

Contact Istar Machining today to learn how our horizontal machining services can help you make better parts faster and more cost-effectively. Our team of experts is ready to answer your questions and help you get started.