Machines/Accessories/Controls

The foundation of robust and successful CNC milling and drilling processes consists of numerous elements, including high-quality machine tools, sturdy work holders and high-performance cutting tools. Toolholders are another of the basic elements.

Determining the appropriate time to implement new technology.

The pressure to decrease costs and drive up profitability means getting every ounce of efficiency from machine tools and cutting tools. To this end, shops constantly strive to reduce cycle times and extend tool life. However, while pursuing these goals, it is easy to push tools past their useful life, allowing excessive wear and its corresponding problems to occur.

A tool clamp that permits optimal coolant delivery on Swiss-style machines.

Effectively directing high-pressure coolant to the cutting zone enhances machinability and extends tool life when cutting heat-resistant superalloys, such as when making parts for the energy industry.

When possible, manufacturers should avoid applying custom cutting tools because they typically cost more than standard catalog items and can be used only for a single purpose. In addition, it is difficult to substitute other tools in place of a special when it is out of stock, and lead times for new custom tools can be long.

Adaptive control helps CNC machines produce more parts.

Shop Technology Columnist Christopher Tate discusses capability studies of the manufacturing process in the February 2014 issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine.

Anyone who works in or around a machine shop knows that high-performance cutting tools are expensive. If the process of acquiring and using these tools is not managed properly, tool expenses can quickly and negatively impact the bottom line, whether you are operating a mom-and-pop shop or a major OEM.

Combination cutting tools for holemaking applications save a significant amount of time when the application is right.