What is the recommended technique for milling on a vertical mill without an automatic table?

Conventional milling is the recommended technique for milling on a vertical mill without an automatic table because it allows for better control of the cutting process when manually operating the machine. In conventional milling, the cutter rotates against the direction of the table feed, which helps to stabilize the workpiece and can reduce the likelihood of the cutter pulling the workpiece upwards, which could happen in climb milling. This technique has been traditionally favored, especially when manual adjustments are necessary, as it provides a more predictable machinist experience, mitigating the risk of sudden shifts in the workpiece position.

In addition, conventional milling tends to produce a better surface finish for certain materials, particularly when using older machines that rely heavily on operator technique. Manual operation may not allow for the fine adjustments that automated processes can provide, so using conventional milling helps operators maintain control and achieve desired results more reliably without the need for complex setups.