2+3: Greater Than 5
2+3 machining of die and mold components is more accurate and often faster than full 5-axis machining.
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Articles
Mastering the Metalcutting Macarena
Machine tool builders and CAM software developers work to make 5-axis machining more flexible and accessible.
Automation Made Easy
A multitasking lathe, coupled with robotic loading or bar loading, is a simple but effective form of automation.
Cutting Down on Cutting Fluids?
While using a single cutting fluid to machine and grind all workpiece materials may not be economically feasible, many machine shops can reduce their number of metalworking fluids.
Rightsizing Machine Tools
Experts weigh in on how to buy smart—for today and tomorrow.
Staying Sharp September 2008
Staying Sharp, Manager's Desk, Part Time, Machine Technology, Shop Operations, Get with the Program, Machinist's Corner
Dollar Power
Read CTE's Fifth Biennial Salary Survey to learn which positions are earning more and how much more since the 2006 survey, which positions are earning less and how much less, and how benefit packages have changed.
The ABCs of Gen Y
Generation Y workers are a different bunch, and many may be reluctant to work in manufacturing. To recruit them, companies first must understand what makes Gen-Yers tick.
Big Ideas for Workholding
Holding large workpieces, especially heavy ones, requires parts manufacturers be more mindful of workholder and machine tool limits than they have to be with smaller workpieces. Also, shops may need to improvise when a conventional workholder can't secure a large workpiece.
New Grind
Grinding round HSS cutting tools can be more efficient than milling them. Being able to dress new hybrid metal/polyimide-bond wheels on the grinder adds to the efficiency.
Flex Time for Grinders
Multifunction grinders, which include other machining operations, enable shops to complete parts in a single setup, among other benefits.
New Tools Needed
New cutting tool materials are required for new generation airframes.