18″ Mill with DRO

The 18″ DRO Benchtop Mill includes a digital readout system and special handwheels with built-in electronic encoders that replace the standard handwheels (standard handwheels are not included with the DRO option). These encoders connect directly to the digital readout box, which displays precise table travel for all three axes. The readout can be zeroed at any time with the push of a button, and spindle RPM is constantly displayed while the motor is running. The DRO system is compatible with both inch and metric machines.

This compact DRO mill is perfect for users who need to produce small, high-precision parts. As with all Sherline milling machines, it’s made in the USA and supported by industry-leading customer service. Despite its size, the DRO mill can accurately cut wood, plastic, aluminum, and steel—delivering full-size machining capabilities in a desktop-sized footprint.

Using the DRO System

The DRO displays each axis position relative to a zero point you set.

• Inch models show position to 0.0005″ (three and a half decimal places)
• Metric models show position to 0.01 mm

The system supports both ball screw and leadscrew machines. As well as the ability to use Metric DROs on inch machines or inch DROs on metric machines. It features six selectable modes based on machine type (mill or lathe), screw type (leadscrew or ball screw), and preferred display units (inch or metric). For setup instructions, refer to the official DRO Mode Instructions.

You can electronically compensate for backlash by inputting the measured backlash value for each axis. When the direction of handwheel rotation reverses, the DRO subtracts the backlash before updating the position—eliminating common errors and making it easier to track travel distance and direction. The power supply automatically switches between 120V and 240V, making it suitable for use in countries with 220–240V electrical current. A socket adapter may be required outside North America.

Notes on Ordering a Metric Mill – Most of our cutting tools, such as center drills, are manufactured in fractional sizes. If you’re using a metric machine with metric collets or end mill holders, you’ll need to order fractional holders to fit these tools.

Standard Equipment for the DRO NexGen Benchtop Mill

• Powerful 90V DC motor with electronic speed control
• 18″ mill base with Y-axis leadscrew protection
• 2.75″ (70 mm) × 18.0″ (457 mm) extended mill table with two T-slots
• 7″ × 13″ tooling plate
• 15″ (63 mm) extended column bed
• Extra-rigid column base
• Digital readout box with LCD display, RPM sensor, power supply, cables, stand, and all necessary mounting hardware. No hole drilling is required to mount.
• DRO handwheels that can be reset to zero electronically with the push of a button on the DRO display box.
  • (2) 2″ (51 mm) DRO handwheels on X- and Y-axes
  • (1) 2-1/2″ (63 mm) DRO handwheel on Z-axis
  • All with laser-engraved aluminum collars
• ¼” drill chuck with key, #1 Morse arbor, and drawbolt
• Oil reservoirs on the X-, Y-, and Z-axes
• Pulleys, drive belt, three hex keys, spindle bars, gib removal tool, 8-foot three-wire power cord, and instruction manual