Basics
When ‘U’ Want to Turn on a Mill
A U-axis head can be a good option for shops hoping to perform turning and boring operations on a CNC milling machine.
Derek Korn
Editor-in-Chief, Production Machining magazine
Tips for Cleaning Oily Parts
Degreasers are the best option for cleaning parts machined with oil. Vacuum degreasers are recommended for cleaning complex parts.
Read MoreWhy Shouldn’t Sawing Be Smart, Too?
Digitized and networked manufacturing processes are becoming a bigger part of the metal processing industry. This includes sawing operations, in which companies can benefit from higher efficiency, lower costs and improved process reliability.
Read MoreRelearning Common Courtesies in the Workplace
As new members are phased in to the workforce, gentle but firm reminders about workplace etiquette and what is considered respectful behavior can go a long way.
Read MoreMachining More Than Metal
Plastics for medical and industrial applications present different challenges than metals as I’ve reported on over the years.
Read MoreHow to Suppress Shop ‘Schadenfreude’
Improving employees’ self-esteem while maintaining a healthy level of coworker competitiveness can minimize the adverse effects of this envy-driven emotion.
Read MoreSpindle Noise: Common Causes and Troubleshooting Tips
The most effective method of managing spindle noise is to prevent it before it starts. Here, a leading spindle designer, manufacturer and service provider offers advice to limit spindle damage and avoid spindle failure.
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A Conversation with Federated Insurance: Why Mental Health Matters in the Workplace
An emotionally healthy workforce contributes to a business’ success.
Carli Kistler-Miller
Director of Programs and Marketing, PMPA
5 Tips for Multichannel Programming
Programming for multitasking machines can be complex. Knowing several key points for making the process less challenging can save a programmer time as well as lessen confusion and the risk of error.
Read MoreUnderstanding Type I and Type II Errors in Precision Machining
The impact of statistical decisions on quality.
Read MorePredicting the ROI of Robotic Automation
Various methodologies paired with online tools can help small to mid-sized manufacturers determine how to predict and calculate the potential economic benefits of robotic equipment for their specific needs.
Read MoreChange Leadership vs. Change Management: Why You Need Both
Change is necessary for continuous improvement. Knowing the distinction between change leadership and management can be the difference between success or failure.
Read MoreGet with the Program(ming): 10 Articles to Help You Transform Your Data
Collecting data but not sure how to use it? You’re not alone. See how smart shops are turning raw machine data into real results—better decisions, smoother operations, and measurable ROI.
Read MoreKnow Your Knurling
Understanding some knurling basics will enable you to choose the proper tooling system based on application requirements.
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Rising Carbide Prices: When Cermet Makes Sense
Raw material constraints push manufacturers to use cermets in finishing, improving stability, surface quality and efficiency.
Derek Korn
Editor-in-Chief, Production Machining magazine
“Turning” the Tables: 10 Must-Read Articles to Sharpen Your Lathe Game
From complex Swiss-type lathes to turning basics, we’ve rounded up 10 turning articles for both beginners and advanced machinists.
Read MoreWhy Not Lights-Out Inspection?
Consider a process to enable your CMM to inspect multiple parts unattended, thereby minimizing the impact that part measurement has on your company’s bottom line.
Read MoreCraftsman Cribsheet No. 134: ISO Material Groups: Steel
How to interpret the machinability of various forms of steel.
Read More3 Common Filtration Questions Answered
Learn about the variety of filters for removing particulates from a cleaning fluid, how to determine cleaning fluid life and more.
Read MoreHow to Differentiate First Aid From a Recordable Event
First aid is not a recordable. Recordables are injuries that require treatment beyond first aid.
Read MoreThe Basics of Rotary Broaching
This broaching process creates a non-round shape on the inside or outside of a part with a broach tool.
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The Workforce Challenge and Why Traditional Hiring Isn’t Enough, Part 2: Grow Your Own
How precision machining shops can build talent pipelines that work.
Emily Riley
Executive Director, PMPA
Craftsman Cribsheet No. 128: Why Do Machinists Say Tenths Instead of Ten Thousandths?
In machinist parlance, a tenth is a tenth of a thousandth, not a tenth of an inch.
Read MoreWhen a CNC Turn-Mill Doesn’t Turn
A shop in Big Sky Country uses a B-axis multitasking machine to produce complex, prismatic medical parts that require no turning complete from barstock.
Read MoreMetalworking Fluid Management and Best Practices
Cutting metal is a complex process involving many critical factors to be successful. Correctly applied metalworking fluids, including oils or coolant, is one of these critical factors.
Read MoreImportant Machining Factors of Carbon Steels
Learn the factors that contribute to carbon steels and their machinability as well as the 1214 steels, 1215 steels and 1018 steels, other grades, and more.
Read MoreUnderstanding Micro-Milling Machine Technology
Micro-milling can be a companion process to turning-based production machining. This article looks at some of the technologies that go into a micro-milling machine and why they are important to successful operation.
Read MorePursuit of Parts Collector Spearheads New Enterprise
While searching for a small parts accumulator for Swiss-type lathes, this machine shop CEO not only found what he was looking for but also discovered how to become a distributor for the unique product.
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