April 1997 Issue
April 1997
Features
Featured articles from the April 1997 issue of Modern Machine Shop
Latest Core Inserts Meet Near-Net-Shape Turning Needs
Cutting-tool makers now know more than ever about making general inserts for specific metalcutting applications. Here is some of what they've learned.
Read MoreFrom No Quote To Sales, Laser Cuts New Path For Alabama Manufacturer
In the competitive business climate for job shops around the Huntsville, Alabama area, this shop has cut a new path to success in the last year. The General Manager credits his forward thinking staff and a CO2 laser for this development.
Read MoreKey CNC Concept #6—Methods For CNC Programming
Presented here are three methods of developing CNC programs, manual programming, conversational (shop-floor) programming, and CAM system programming.
Read MoreWhat's The Best Way To Digitize?
A physical model is some sort of solid object that must be replicated in metal. And a tool maker must figure out how best to capture a dimensional description of that form that is both accurate and detailed enough to eventually enable the creation of a good NC part program.
Read MoreKey CNC Concept #5—The Importance Of Program Formatting
Simplicity and consistency are the hallmarks of good programming.
Read MoreKey CNC Concept #10—Verifying CNC Programs Safely
For the most part, CNC controls will follow the instructions given in a program to the letter. With the exception of basic syntax (program formatting) mistakes, the CNC control will rarely be able to tell if a mistake has been made.
Read MoreKey CNC Concept #8—The Modes Of Machine Operation
This concept introduces the three basic modes of operation, presents examples of when they are used, explores more about the mode switch, and categorizes each position of the mode switch into one of the three basic modes.
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Key CNC Concept #4—The Forms Of Compensation
Though applied for different reasons on different machine types, all forms of compensation allow the CNC user to allow for unpredictable conditions related to tooling.
Read MoreKey CNC Concept #2—Know Your Machine
If you already know basic machining practice as it relates to the CNC machine you will be working with, you already know what it is you want the machine to do.
Read MoreCNC Intro-The Key Concepts Of Computer Numerical Control
Today, computer numerical control (CNC) machines are found almost everywhere, from small job shops in rural communities to Fortune 500 companies in large urban areas.
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Key CNC Concept #7—Know The Machine From An Operator's Viewpoint
This perspective for a good programmer is a practical one, since the CNC operator must understand the machine's basic components, its directions of motion, and all buttons and switches available on the machine tool itself.
Read MoreSpindle System Has Dual Contact V-Taper
Most CNC machining centers use one of two spindle systems. The most common system is the solid V-taper. Gaining in popularity is the hollow shank or HSK-type spindle system.
Read MorePredictive Maintenance And Machine Tool Calibration Techniques
Here are some of the tools and techniques for making sure machine tools stay at peak performance levels.
Read MoreKey CNC Concept #9—The Key Sequences Of Operation
This concept examines the sequences of operation of a CNC machine by way of reference material related to key operational procedures.
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Key CNC Concept #3—Understanding CNC Motion Types
Effectively commanding motion on most CNC machines requires more than describing how the CNC machine determines the end point position for each motion.
Read MoreDown To The Micron, Up To The Stars
A souped-up CMM helps this shop machine to tolerances measured in single-digit microns. And the machine tool they're using is out of this world.
Read MoreSwitch From Mechanical To Laser Measuring Cuts Inspection Costs In Half
To anybody running a manufacturing operation, inspection productivity is certainly desirable. To the founder and CEO of an independent metrology service center, it is his lifeblood.
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Manufacturing Performance Measures Really Count
The Maturation Of American Quality
A 'Just-In-Case' Case
