Machining

Tips for deep-hole tapping in titanium and other aerospace-grade materials. Advice is provided by NIST and the International Titanium Association.

A new turning tool emits an electric signal when its insert reaches a predetermined wear point or breaks. Called Sensor Tool, sections of the coated insert are ablated by a laser, thereby creating an electronic circuit.

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.

Cutting forces cause the boring bar to deflect, which can lead to vibration and damaged workpieces. The author gives an overview of available boring bars and offers guidelines for selecting one for a specific application.

Grinding burn is a general term used to describe various types of thermal damage that occur to the workpiece during grinding.

The author discusses three recent advancements in electrical discharge machining: the use of linear motors on EDMs, wire EDMs with an automatic slug-removal capability and dielectric fluid additives that yield finer part finishes.

Metalworking companies have a "cradle-to-grave" responsibility for the fluids they use. Improper disposal can lead to costly fines. Article discusses the ramifications of improper disposal and how to develop a plan to constantly improve the condition of a shop's metalworking fluid.

The author provides guidelines shops can follow when selecting a PC-based CAD/CAM system. Selection guidelines include: CAD functionality, CAM functionality, NC code output, vendor evaluation and hardware selection.

Overview of the new machine tool technologies introduced at IMTS 2000. Among them are linear motors for axes travels, ballscrew chillers, a new way to lubricate linear guideways and controlling machining processes via the Internet.

Discussion of different types of bonds used to make superabrasive grinding wheels. Author provides tables with price comparisons, physical properties and operating parameters for various bonds.

The author offers tips about making interrupted cuts while turning. He also discusses the differences between interrupted cuts in turning and milling and various types of materials.

Author discusses the advantages of CVD-diamond tools compared to other types of diamond tools. He also explains how CVD-diamond tools are manufactured and gives case histories involving their usage.