Articles

Dual-spindle turning centers allow shops to combine several processes into one setup. This article describes a typical dual-spindle turning center's configuration and capabilities. A common scenario is given showing how such a machine might be used to reduce cycle times.

Cutting without metalworking fluid is looking increasingly attractive to U.S. shops hit with the high cost of fluid maintenance and disposal. This article discusses the benefits and drawbacks of dry machining and outlines the tools and equipment needed to machine successfully without the benefits of a coolant or lubricant.

As the use of hard-to-machine work materials grows, the need for high-performance tool coatings increases. This article discusses developments in coatings that have increased their usability. Among the coatings discussed are medium-temperature CVD coatings and multilayer PVD coatings.

There are several types of feed units for drilling and tapping on the market, varying in capability and the type of drive. This article discusses the difference between units and suggests questions users should ask themselves before selecting a unit. Factors to be considered include the volume of production, cost engineering and tool requirements.

This article makes the case that a core drill is the best tool for opening existing holes. Being designed for the operation, the two-flute indexable drill can produce more accurate holes with less tool wear and breakage than alternatives such as boring bars, drills or endmills. The article describes the design of a typical core drill and explains how it is used.

There are many good reasons a shop might choose to purchase an abrasive waterjet machine. However, as this article explains, many factors must be considered to determine if the investment makes economic sense. The article discusses how and when a shop can adopt AWJ profitably and it explores the possibility of achieving the same results more cost effectively by subcontracting the work to an AWJ specialty house.

Modular fixturing offers a flexible and reusable alternative to dedicated fixtures. This article discusses the benefits of modular fixturing and the types of jobs for which a modular system makes economic sense. A description of typical modular fixturing components and how they are used is also provided.

Solid-carbide drills made with advanced submicrograin carbide are capable of producing holes that meet tight specifications without secondary operations. This article explains how these tools produce reamer-like finishes while offering extended tool life and shortened cycle times. An accompanying article discusses coatings for solid-carbide drills.

When shops crank up the speed, they have to be prepared for the consequences, even if they're milling "easy-to-machine" aluminum.

The economic benefits of high-speed machining can be lost if the wrong tools are used. This article describes the types of solid-carbide drills and endmills that can ensure long-running performance. It also covers the proper handling and setup of these tools.

Researchers at Ohio State University produced contoured cuts with different ball mills to determine the best tool material and coating for the job. This article reports their findings and offers recommendations for extended tool life when milling molds and dies.

Researchers tried bathing inserts in liquid nitrogen to keep them cool while cutting hard-to-machine materials. This article reports the results of this experiment. It shows how the use of cryogenic coolant can keep temperatures down and prolong tool life while machining titanium aluminum vanadium and reaction-bonded silicon nitride.