Milling operations taxonomy What do we call the milling operation in which multiple cutters are mounted on a common arbor to machine several surfaces of a workpiece simultaneously?

Introduction / Context:
Milling offers many variants tailored to geometry and productivity. When the aim is to machine several surfaces in a single pass for high throughput, special cutter arrangements are used.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Horizontal milling machine with arbor-mounted cutters.
• Multiple cutters selected for the required faces or slots.

Concept / Approach:
Gang milling mounts more than one cutter on the same arbor so that multiple features are produced in one traverse. This improves productivity and ensures relative dimensional control between features.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify goal: machine several surfaces in one pass.Match process: multiple cutters on an arbor → gang milling.Confirm distinction from related terms.

Verification / Alternative check:
Manufacturing handbooks illustrate gang cutter stacks with spacers to create complex profiles in one operation.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Profile milling uses a single form cutter or end mill to trace shapes.
• Saw milling uses a thin cutter mainly for slots/parting.
• Helical milling refers to generating helical features (e.g., helical gears).
• Straddle milling uses two side milling cutters to machine opposite sides simultaneously, not multiple different surfaces.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing straddle milling (two sides) with gang milling (many surfaces/features).

Final Answer:
gang milling