Slotting Machine

(in woodworking, called a mortising machine). (1) A metalworking machine for processing hardto-reach, straight or slanted inner and outer surfaces, as well as grooves and mortises of any shape (mainly blind, with small spaces for the free movement of the tool). The principal motion is rectilinear and is produced by the reciprocating motion in the vertical plane of a slide block with a carriage and a slotting tool (or slotter ram) attached to it. The slide block is driven mechanically or hydraulically. The feed movement, which is rectilinear or circular, is achieved by the periodic shifting of the table to which the workpiece is fastened. The output of a slotting machine is lower than that of a milling machine or broach. It is used for single-unit or smalllot production.

(2) In woodworking, a mortising machine is a machine for excavating rectangular and oval grooves, mortises, and apertures in wooden parts. Mortising machines are used in the production of furniture, windows, doors, skis, and parts for railroad cars and ships.

Mortising machines are classified as chain, drill, or cutter types, depending on the type of cutting tool used. The cutting tool in chain mortising machines consists of milling chains of various sizes (depending on the dimension of the groove or recess), which move along a special interchangeable guide bar. The cutting tool of drilling mortising machines is a hollow chisel within which a drill rotates. The working table on which the workpiece is mounted can be moved longitudinally and transversely and tilted from the horizontal. Cutter mortising machines are equipped with flat-pointed tools that have cutting teeth in their lower working portion; the teeth chisel out apertures and simultaneously remove the chips by means of a rocking movement.