Articles & Columns

Machine Technology column in October 2009 issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine.

While some may question its use, on-machine probing can reduce setup time while boosting in-process dimension control and enabling part verification.

Creating awareness about productivity boosting machining technologies and implementing them are playing a major role in making military parts.

Machinist's Corner column in October 2009 issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine.

The guidelines for turning of tool steels include both tool- and part-making applications.

Productive Times report covering dedicated wheel truing, includes a brief video report about Myles Tool using the Rush Machinery Wheel Truer.

Get With The Program column in October 2009 issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine.

Shop Operations column in October 2009 issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine.

An array of milling tools is available, including endmills, facemills and plain mills. Typical milling applications include facing, filleting or edge cutting, profiling, slotting, pocketing and blind slotting.

Because high-speed steel inserts can bend without breaking, they are an effective choice for select applications.

With the cost of high-performance coolants on the rise, coolant management is more important than ever. It starts by getting the basics right.

Machining large compacted graphite iron castings for diesel engine components is challenging, but applying the proper tools and techniques can help.

Machinist's Corner September 2009 column

Even low-volume operations producing many different parts can benefit from lights-out production.

There’s more than one way to machine a part. The trick is to match the part’s complexity and volume requirements with an optimal production process.

In recent years, monolithic machined aluminum components have been replacing sheet metal assemblies throughout the aerospace industry. The monolithic structures are lighter, less expensive and stronger than their conventional sheet metal counterparts. Machining the components requires fewer special tools, fewer hand operations and less assembly time.

What does CAM software have to do with mowing your lawn? More than you might think. Consider this imaginary story in which a machine shop owner tackles that bane of suburban life.

You can find out that times are tough by reading the newspaper but it really hits home when your company downsizes you. That was recently the case for me and about 30 others at the company I worked for.

Understanding tool wear is the first step to extending tool life—which can be further enhanced with new coating technology.

In addition to handling prototype and production machining, R.E.F. Precision Products LLC, Deer Park, N.Y., provides engineering and productivity consulting services.