Cool Turning
Reviews of new turning centers from five machine tool builders.
Industry
Machinery & Equipment Manufacturing
Multienhancing
Machine tool builders continue to improve the capabilities of mill/turn centers.
Collaboration Drives Cost-Effective Automation in Auto Parts
By fostering creativity and teamwork among its equipment suppliers, an auto parts maker creates cost-effective automation technology.
Modern Tool Resharpening Matches New Tool Performance
In the past, tool resharpening got a bit of a bum rap: It was better, perhaps, than throwing the tools away, but the resharpened tools weren't likely to achieve the same longevity as new ones. Today, resharpened tools can often achieve the same lifespan as new ones, and resharpeners can improve their customers' tool usage in other ways as well.
New equipment for depositing nanocomposite coatings
New equipment allows deposition of hard and tough nanocomposite tool coatings.
How Application-Specific PCBN Grades Improve Metalcutting
Application-specific PCBN grades enhance metalcutting operations.
The Enduring Role of Collets in Modern Workholding
A look at the collet--the 'other' workholding device. Even though collets' roots are firmly planted in the past, they remain an integral part of today's tooling designs.
The Sweet and Sour of Parting-Off Operations
Understanding parting-off operations.
CNC Lathe Options: What to Know Before Upgrading from Manual
A look at the various types of CNC lathes available to shops contemplating stepping up from a manual machine. The pros and cons of the following lathes are discussed: combination, cutoff, slant-bed, twin-spindle and turn/mill. The author also touches on available options.
From Maudsley to CNC: The Evolution of Thread Cutting
A look at the different types of inserts used for single-point threading and how to figure feed rates for cutting threads on a CNC lathe. Also offers programming tips and recommendations for reducing tool wear.
How Simulation Improves Machining Tool Design and Performance
Computer simulations of the cutting process can help tool designers predict the effects of tool-geometry changes. This article describes how one manufacturer is using the most recent advances in computer modeling to reduce the need for producing and testing prototype inserts. An accompanying article describes a commercially available simulation program.
Sawing In-House vs. Outsourcing: What Shops Should Consider
An increasing number of shops are purchasing saws and bringing their cutoff operations in-house. This article discusses the benefits of such a move and explains the factors that must be considered before selecting a saw. Blade selection is also discussed.