Milling machine splash guards

[albertq]

I mostly machine with coolant as it, 1. Helps clear swarf, 2. Keeps the part and cutter cool, 3. Prolongs the life of the cutter.
It however does make a mess and sprays one wet with coolant if not well contained.

Most CNC machines have a large solid & glass panelled enclosure, but was not a practical solution for my universal mill, with its great amount of head movement available.

Over time I developed two versions, both of which have worked pretty well.
Version 1 consisted of two 4-arm extensions, one mounted to each side of the mill body, onto which 1mm neoprene rubber sheeting was attached with varying lengths on each segment of the extension. This worked quite well and used for 10 years, replacing the neoprene every 5 years. The only drawback was it was difficult to bring the guard nearer the workpiece and was cumbersome to stow it away.

Version 2.
This consisted of two semi circular hinged arms with equal lengths neoprene rubber hanging from them.
The two hinged arms in turn are mounted onto a two arm extension with its two hinged joints.
This version allows closer shielding to the work and is easier to stow. It also shields better at higher cutter speeds.
I've attached photos showing both versions.
Attachment 48430 Attachment 48431 Attachment 48432 Attachment 48433

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[DIYer]

Thanks albertq! We've added your Mill Splash Guard to our Machining category,
as well as to your builder page: albertq's Homemade Tools. Your receipt:

Mill Splash Guard by albertq

tags: mill, guard

[Piros1]

Very nice setup, I especially like the version 2. Where did you find the catch pan at the base? I don’t think I have ever seen one molded to fit the base of the mill so well. I have a Series 1 2HP Bridgeport. I would prefer to use coolant but not setup for it just yet. Just getting my shop and equipment setup. Lots learn.

[albertq]

Very nice setup, I especially like the version 2. Where did you find the catch pan at the base? I don’t think I have ever seen one molded to fit the base of the mill so well. I have a Series 1 2HP Bridgeport. I would prefer to use coolant but not setup for it just yet. Just getting my shop and equipment setup. Lots learn.

It was one of the options available when I purchased my machine from my local machinery supply Co. It's made from fibreglass, so light and easy to remove if needs be.