Feature Article

Programming a cut with an abrasive waterjet is complicated by the fact that the stream of water deflects as it passes through the workpiece. This article describes newer controller technology that can adjust the traverse speed to minimize deflection at corners and curves.

Software-based video tool inspection systems can read tool geometries much more precisely than other measurement systems. This article looks at the technology behind these systems and explains how this technology detects and measures tool edges and angles.

Tunable tools can be adjusted to dampen vibration. However, shops must have the right equipment to tune them quickly and precisely. This article describes an instrument that can provide the necessary feedback. A system that uses a mill's vibration frequency to sense problems with the tool is also described.

While CNCs and part-handling equipment offer labor, time and money savings, they also require dramatic changes in the way a shop operates. This article looks at the investment in equipment, personnel and training that shops have to make over and above the cost of the automated machines themselves.

This article makes the argument that grinding is still a useful and necessary process despite the advancements that have made the turning of hardened workpieces possible. The article discusses the precision and finish possible with grinding, and it compares the cost of grinding to other machining processes.

This is the first in a series of Articles on coolants. It provides a general review of the types of fluids available, their cooling and lubricating abilities and their ease of disposal. Criteria are offered for selecting the appropriate fluid for an operation.

The EPA's ban on ozone-depleting chemicals had an impact on the formulation of metalworking fluids containing 1,1,1 trichloroethane. This article looks at the reasons for the ban and the industry's efforts to find replacement substances for the banned chemicals.

Automatic recessing heads feed a cutter out at a right angle to the spindle's rotation axis as downward pressure is applied to the housing. This article looks at the advantages of using these units and reviews the different types of head available, including heads for special applications and multispindle automatics.

When machinists plan a boring operation, they must rely on general turning data. Typically, this data is developed from OD turning operations, not boring operations. This article provides cutting data and recommendations specifically for boring that take into account such unique problems as boring bar deflection and chips trapped inside the bore.

This article looks at different machine tool components and their impact on the machine's ability to operate at high speeds and feeds. Components covered include motors, drives, bearings, spindle coolant mechanisms, toolholders and CNC.

Changes in milling practices have placed new demands on the cutting tool. This article discusses the features toolmakers have added to their milling insert geometries to control chips and cutting forces. The article also reviews the milling process and the forces that act on the insert.

Thread rolling produces external threads by forming the profile instead of cutting it. This guide covers where CNC thread rolling fits, why it can outperform cutting, and what shops should watch in setup.