Medical

Tom Lipton, the author of Cutting Tool Engineering's Shop Operations column, shares a trick he learned that reveals an interesting use of relatively crash-proof soft metal or plastic bed plates on a milling machine.

Debating the need for CAM systems on Swiss-style machines.

The use of conversational programming is growing and may influence tomorrow's conventional machine controls.

When cleaning parts, there is general cleaning and then there is precision cleaning. Both types are important in medical device manufacturing, but precision cleaning -- repeatable removal of contaminants to a specified, usually validated standard -- has become more prevalent in part because of increasingly stringent Food and Drug Administration oversight of the manufacturing process, resulting in stricter process QC.

Continuing the theme of the previous three columns, here are additional tips for enhancing the operation of a CNC milling machine from Shop Operations columnist Tom Lipton.

Boost productivity when machining hubs and other parts. Replace an outdated vertical machining center with a new one.

Antipullout toolholders reduce scrap, increase tool life and eliminate anxiety while milling.

Learn details about the many new products manufacturers are offering the metalworking industry.

The Shop Operations column suggests that you should use every tool, trick and option at your disposal to get jobs out the door as quickly as possible because speed and momentum reduce costs when applied to part processing.

Extend tool life when machining titanium vertebrae implants and supports. A shrink-fit collet and collet chuck system.