Machining

High-performance cutting tools can provide increased efficiency and productivity, but they can also be a drain on tooling budgets. Cost-justifying these tools often requires regrinding and reconditioning them when they are worn or damaged. A successful reconditioning program reduces tooling costs by extending life as long as possible.

Continuing and concluding the theme of my previous two columns, this month's installment provides additional tips for enhancing the operation of a manual milling machine.

Prevent sealed bearings from overheating in a live tooling head. A live tooling head with coolant-fed bearings.

Enhance PCD cutting tool design while decreasing processing times. SOLUTION: A 6-axis rotary erosion machine.

Provide centerless grinding machines that can produce parts with continually tightening size and surface finish requirements. Customized coolant filtration equipment.

Milling sounds range from loud to quiet, and experienced machinists <br />often use those sounds to judge what is occurring in the cutting zone. It is difficult to position a sensor such as an accelerometer or a displacement probe close to the cutting zone, and it is often a challenge to see the cutting zone, but the sounds are pervasive.

This month's Talking Shop turns its attention to an Indiana shop that makes family a priority.

Shop Operations columnist Tom Lipton offers tips for enhancing the operation of a manual milling machine.

Extend tool life and boost productivity when milling Inconel 718. A 6-flute endmill programmed to follow a trochoidal milling toolpath.

Drill holes in 304 stainless steel used for header plates. An HSS drill.