Resources
CTE
Resources
Curated machining knowledge, tools, and pathways — organized by purpose.
MFGAxis — Buyer’s Guide
Company listings, capabilities, certifications, and specialties — organized for buyers and engineers.
Machining References
Curated technical references for machinists and engineers.
Machining Calculators
Feeds, speeds, formulas, and shop calculators.
Wire
Search-driven resource hub for wire.
Hypertherm
Search-driven resource hub for hypertherm.
Roll
Search-driven resource hub for roll.
James
Search-driven resource hub for james.
Molybdenum
Search-driven resource hub for molybdenum.
Ai
Search-driven resource hub for ai.
Vericut
Search-driven resource hub for vericut.
Siemens
Search-driven resource hub for siemens.
Fanuc
Search-driven resource hub for fanuc.
Turnkey
Search-driven resource hub for turnkey.
Super
Search-driven resource hub for super.
Robotmaster
Search-driven resource hub for robotmaster.
Pronest
Search-driven resource hub for pronest.
Online
Search-driven resource hub for online.
Tap
Search-driven resource hub for tap.
Optical
Search-driven resource hub for optical.
Machinist
Search-driven resource hub for machinist.
Broaching
Search-driven resource hub for broaching.
Fatigue
Search-driven resource hub for fatigue.
Photo
Search-driven resource hub for photo.
Makino
Search-driven resource hub for makino.
Erp
Search-driven resource hub for erp.
Countersink
Search-driven resource hub for countersink.
Flame
Search-driven resource hub for flame.
Fives
Search-driven resource hub for fives.
Centerless
Search-driven resource hub for centerless.
Garant
Search-driven resource hub for garant.
Filtration
Search-driven resource hub for filtration.
Go
Search-driven resource hub for go.
Dual
Search-driven resource hub for dual.
Okuma
Search-driven resource hub for okuma.
Acme
Search-driven resource hub for acme.
Tapping
Search-driven resource hub for tapping.
Raw
Search-driven resource hub for raw.
Co2
Search-driven resource hub for co2.
Pre
Search-driven resource hub for pre.
Total
Search-driven resource hub for total.
Moving
Search-driven resource hub for moving.
Abb
Search-driven resource hub for abb.
Formula
Search-driven resource hub for formula.
Pick
Search-driven resource hub for pick.
Automating
Search-driven resource hub for automating.
Sic
Search-driven resource hub for sic.
Pipe
Search-driven resource hub for pipe.
Coordinate
Search-driven resource hub for coordinate.
Tramp
Search-driven resource hub for tramp.
Thermal
Search-driven resource hub for thermal.
Cmm
Search-driven resource hub for cmm.
Ceramic
Search-driven resource hub for ceramic.
Case Hardening
Search-driven resource hub for case hardening.
Insert Geometry
Insert identification, lead angle, indexable insert geometry, and selection references.
Boring
Boring heads, U-axis systems, contour boring, and setup references.
Cutting Forces
Cutting-force formulas, machining power, chip load, and speed/feed references.
Workholding
Workholding strategy, zero-point clamping, fixturing, and setup efficiency.
Threading
Threading calculators, tapping guidance, thread milling, and related tooling.
Authors
Browse CTE contributors and subject-matter experts.
Glossary
Definitions of machining and manufacturing terms.
Machining Fundamentals & Tooling References
Core explainers and shop-floor references for speeds, feeds, forces, insert identification, heat treatment, and cutter geometry.
Process Spotlights & Manufacturing Systems
Inspection, automation, digitalization, and application-specific reads that complement the core machining references above.
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Behind the Carbide Curtain
Many end users would like to see carbide tool standards that would ensure consistent quality in tools from shipment to shipment or between manufacturers. Today's C and ISO designations do not provide this assurance, according to this article. The article looks at the problems that arise because of a lack of standards and the attempts being made to guarantee consistent quality in the shop.
Unattended Tool Grinding
A CNC tool grinder connected to an automated loading unit can be programmed to grind tools during a shop's off hours. This article discusses the planning and preparation that are necessary to set up an unattended run.
Help Wanted: Workforce Development & Training (June 1997)
This article describes the apprenticeship program and other activities that toolmaker Komet of America is pursuing to bring new people into the metalworking industry as machinists. The company has met with some success working with the Tooling & Manufacturing Association and a local high school.
CBN Wheels in Peak Condition
CBN grinding wheels offer the promise of higher productivity and longer wheel life, but they must be carefully maintained with dressing routines that differ from routines for standard wheels. This article details the techniques and tools needed to perform CBN wheel dressing effectively and economically.
Consider the Source: Drilling Performance
This article discusses the various sources of machining information available, and the body of knowledge on which each type of source bases its recommendations. Emerging sources that make use of such innovative media as the Internet also are discussed.
Shrink-Fit Toolholding
A toolholder that uses metal's natural thermal expansion and contraction to hold tools does not suffer from many of the drawbacks of other toolholding mechanisms, according to this article. In addition to outlining the benefits of this "shrink-fit" toolholding system, the article also explains the technology and describes how shops have benefited from it.
HSK Leads the Way: Drilling Performance
HSK toolholders were designed with high-speed machining in mind. This article explains the features of the toolholder that make it perform well in modern machining centers at high spindle rpm. It also discusses the toolholder's handling and maintenance requirements.
Grading Graphite: General Industry Coverage
This report details the results of a test of graphite electrodes. The test compared the performance and machinability of three graphite grades, ranging from an inexpensive coarse grade to a relatively costly ultrafine grade.
2 Spindles Are Better Than 1
Dual-spindle turning centers allow shops to combine several processes into one setup. This article describes a typical dual-spindle turning center's configuration and capabilities. A common scenario is given showing how such a machine might be used to reduce cycle times.
Will Work for Sales: Turning Performance
Machine tool builders and distributors are trying to distinguish themselves by selling customers complete turnkey packages that are ready to make good parts from the day they are installed. This article discribes the services being offered and the process that puts a turnkey system on a shop's floor.
Grinding Your Teeth
CNC bandsaws are designed to run for long periods unattended. This is only possible if the blades used are reliable and long lasting. According to this article, bimetal blades with ground teeth fit the bill. The article describes how these blades are made and what makes them different from conventional blades with milled teeth.
Turning Stainless Made Painless
Stainless steel is one of the more difficult materials to cut. This article discusses the problems that can occur when turning various types of stainless steels, the reasons for these problems and ways to avoid them. Advice is given on diagnosing problems based on tool-wear patterns. The article also suggests ways to correct problems once they are discovered.
