A cobot can add a lot of value to the manufacturing process in a machine shop. It can increase the productivity of the CNC machine, while also contributing to process accuracy and consistency. Cobots can be easy to program and are safe to use.

• Each program has a program number, that should be different from other program numbers

• Each line of code in a CNC program is called a “Block”. It contains G and M codes in it.

• The block cannot have two M-codes in it

• The ending of a Block has a End-of-Block symbol and it is a semi-colon. (Example: G1X.5; )

Knowing what features to inspect on machined parts, being aware of machining conditions, and what items and details to deburr can make all the difference in the success of the manufacturing project. By mastering these three items, it will set you apart as a great machinist. Let’s review in detail.

I gave a classroom presentation in two engineering classes within the technical education department at a local middle school. The students were engaged in the mechanical clock presentation and asked me great questions.

Across the country, educators are searching for meaningful ways to prepare students for life after high school. At Cardinal Manufacturing in Strum, Wisconsin, that preparation is at the core of their mission. The program’s primary goal is to equip students with the technical skills, confidence, and strong work habits that employers look for, such as professionalism, communication and responsibility.

Precision machining is the process of removing material from the workpiece and holding a tight tolerance and finish on the part. The process of removing material from the workpiece is usually done with computer numerical controlled (CNC) machines.

The CNC Machining industry has many specialized terms for tooling, machines, and other technology. Here is our list of things to know about machining with CNC equipment.     

• Blueprint Reading - The term blueprint reading means that someone interprets ideas that are on a drawing or print.

• CAD/CAM Software – CAD is the acronym for Computer Aided Design. CAM is the acronym for Computer Aided Manufacturing. They are computer software that are used in the manufacturing industry.

• Caliper – A measuring tool that is used to measure internal and/ or external dimensions on machined parts.

I have designed and built a 3D printed clock that has over two dozen printed parts in it. My aspirations for doing this started when I bought mechanical watch movements and disassembled them to see how they work. The clock that I printed was inspired by a mechanical watch movement, but it is scaled up in size by six times.

There are fifteen parameters to be considered when analyzing a new part to be made in a CNC lathe. While this may seem like a lot of considerations, if you examine a part properly you will be successful in its implementation. Here are the parameters to consider and the questions to ask:

Production machining means making a lot of the same parts with great accuracy. Factories use machines like CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines, Swiss machines, and multi-axis turning machines to do this.

Recently I made a unique tool for showing science, technology, engineering, math, and manufacturing to students. It is a mechanical clock that has over two dozen 3D printed parts in it. In the presentation, students are truly engaged in learning more about the clock.