Glossary Terms

Microprocessor-based controller dedicated to a machine tool that permits the creation or modification of parts. Programmed numerical control activates the machine’s servos and spindle drives and controls the various machining operations. See DNC, direct numerical control; NC, numerical control.

Product-design functions performed with the help of computers and special software.

Engineering functions performed with the help of computers and special software. Includes functions such as determining a material’s ability to withstand stresses.

Use of computers to control machining and manufacturing processes.

Theoretically, an approach under which all phases of production—including management, sales, order processing, design, quality control and chipmaking—are controlled or monitored by interconnected computers. Practically, a term applied to systems approximating the ideal.

Agents and additives that, when added to water, create a cutting fluid. See cutting fluid.

Casting technique in which a cast shape is continuously withdrawn through the bottom of the mold as it solidifies, so that its length is not determined by mold dimensions. Used chiefly to produce semifinished mill products such as billets, blooms, ingots, slabs and tubes.

Handwheel-operated mechanism for holding and guiding the workpiece while sawing contours on a contour bandsaw.

Cutter rotation is opposite that of the feed at the point of contact. Chips are cut at minimal thickness at the initial engagement of the cutter’s teeth with the workpiece and increase to a maximum thickness at the end of engagement. See climb milling.

Method for using plain English to produce G-code file without knowing G-code in order to program CNC machines.

Fluid that reduces temperature buildup at the tool/workpiece interface during machining. Normally takes the form of a liquid such as soluble or chemical mixtures (semisynthetic, synthetic) but can be pressurized air or other gas.

Process of reducing the heat content of a tool, part, assembly or material. Cooling may be required for a variety of reasons: to improve tool life, increase cutting speeds and ensure workpiece tolerances by controlling expansion. When heat-treating metal parts, part of the process is cooling, either by air, water or oil.