Machining

When machining for precision, there's no such thing as planning too much. There are many important aspects to account for, from bit tapers to material burrs to caliper readings. Even what direction you attach your material to the stage can matter. Here are some quick tips to keep in mind as you plan your next machining project.

New research by the Copper Development Association Inc., McLean, Virginia, shows that U.S. machine shops may be underutilizing the machinability of brass by as much as 85 percent in part-processing operations. The study says manufacturers can and should be machining the material at significantly higher speeds and feeds—often five to 20 times faster—to increase productivity and profitability.

Today's facemills can help shops handle difficult-to-machine materials for automotive and aerospace applications.

Lower costs and ease of use make laser marking systems a more viable option today, experts say.

Economic experts say that growth will rise but less briskly than it did this year.n

Look-Ahead: Robotic system finds and records defects in finished parts.

Manager's Desk: If growth is a part of your business plan, don't let the costs that go with it catch you by surprise.

A dual-pallet horizontal machining center with a maximum workpiece swing of 3,200mm can handle the load.

The Grinding Doc's a fan of false nips, aka dummy workpieces, but only in certain situations.

Swiss-Style Machining: The Arno Fast Change system from Arno-Werkzeuge provides fast setups and reduces the downtime.

Talking Shop: Get an insider's view of our industry in this Q and A with AB Sandvik Coromant's Global President Nadine Crauwels.

Machine Technology: Starrag offers the first heavy-duty machine capable of meeting the most stringent precision requirements.