September 2006 Issue
September 2006
Features
Featured articles from the latest issue of Modern Machine Shop
The Value Of Daily CMM Capability Checks
Coordinate measuring machines are not infallible. A variety of factors can adversely affect their measuring accuracy, including a crash, large temperature fluctuations, a malfunctioning probe head, use of an uncalibrated probe - even a person leaning on the machine gantry might be enough to take it out of square. If the CMM's true capability is verified only once a year via laser or another calibration method, then it's possible that the CMM might be inaccurately measuring parts for an extended period of time, unbeknownst to the operator. The question remains - did a workpiece fail inspection because of an imprecise manufacturing process or an inaccurate CMM?
Read MoreAdvanced Controls For High Speed Milling
This CNC expert covers the key factors behind making controls and the entire milling process move faster.
Read MoreWireless Collection Of Measurement Data
In manufacturing, reacting to measurement data in a timely fashion is critical. A fast response to undesirable trends can prevent scrap or rework. The problem is, it can be slow and cumbersome to collect, deliver and analyze measurement data. Recent efforts to expedite this process have included shop-wide cable networks with bar code readers and other automated devices. The latest development along these lines is wireless data handling.
Read MoreTurning The Long And Difficult
This shop has made large turning work its specialty. In proving to its customers that it can perform this difficult work, it has started to win more "standard" machining jobs.
Read MoreA Study Of The Steady Rest
When the length and stiffness of a workpiece make it difficult to machine, many turn to the steady rest.
Read MoreMaking Strides To Maximize Worker Efficiency
This 40-year-old shop combines original best practices with new technologies and manufacturing approaches to make the most of its home-grown skilled labor.
Read MoreMove The Program Instead Of The Part
A complex five-axis part with hard-to-reach datums is machined in two setups instead of eight, thanks to a process that rewrites the tool paths to match the part's position.
Read MoreTurning The Tide
When Briggs & Stratton decided to make the crankshaft machining lines in its Poplar Bluff plant globally competitive, it had to choose between CNC lathes and dedicated special machines for its main turning operations. The company chose the lathes.
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