Overview
ISO 1701-2:2004 - Test conditions for milling machines with table of variable height: Testing of accuracy - Part 2: Machines with vertical spindle - specifies the procedures, measuring methods and applicable tolerances for verifying the accuracy of general‑purpose, normal‑accuracy vertical‑spindle milling machines with a table of variable height. The standard covers both geometric tests and machining (finishing) tests, and it is intended for acceptance, commissioning and periodic verification of machine tool accuracy. It explicitly excludes tests of machine running (vibration, abnormal noise, stick‑slip) and machine performance characteristics (speeds, feeds).
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and machine type: Applies to vertical‑spindle milling machines with table of variable height (general purpose, normal accuracy).
- Reference standards: Requires reference to ISO 230‑1:1996 for installation, measuring methods and test code; also references ISO 3855 for milling cutter nomenclature.
- Geometric tests: Defines checks such as straightness of vertical movement, squareness of X and Y axes, table angular deviations (roll/pitch) and other axis‑geometry verifications. Example tolerances shown in the standard:
- Straightness (vertical movement) - example tolerance: 0.020 mm for 300 mm measuring length.
- Squareness (Y vs X) - example tolerance: 0.02 mm for 300 mm.
- Table angular deviations (roll/pitch) - specified as ratios (e.g., 0.04/1000).
- Machining tests: Limited to finishing cuts (not roughing) to avoid cutting‑force distortions; verify practical machining accuracy.
- Measuring instruments and units: Linear dimensions/tolerances in millimetres, angular tolerances in ratios (or microradians/arcseconds); recommended instruments include dial gauges (resolution 0.001 mm or better), precision levels and straightedges.
- Testing practice: Tests may be performed in any order to ease instrument mounting. Users and suppliers should agree which tests will be performed for acceptance. Minimum tolerance floor is 0.005 mm when scaling tolerance to other measuring lengths.
Applications and users
Who uses ISO 1701-2:2004:
- Machine tool manufacturers for factory acceptance and quality control.
- Inspection and calibration laboratories performing accuracy verification.
- Purchasing/specification engineers and QA managers specifying acceptance criteria.
- Maintenance teams and service providers performing commissioning or periodic re‑qualification.
Practical uses:
- Acceptance testing of new vertical‑spindle milling machines.
- Commissioning after installation or relocation (with ISO 230‑1 warm‑up/installation guidance).
- Contractual test protocols between buyers and suppliers.
- Baseline records for machine condition monitoring and maintenance planning.
Related standards
- ISO 230‑1:1996 - Test code for machine tools - geometric accuracy (normative reference).
- ISO 3855 - Milling cutters - nomenclature.
- ISO 1701‑1:2004 - Part 1: Machines with horizontal spindle.
- ISO 1984 - Milling machines with table of fixed height (related coverage).