All tagged Machining

CNC Machining Terms

CNC Machining Terms

Matthew Schowalter, CMfgT
CNC Machining, CNC Programming, Machining, Machinist, Manufacturing

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.

From Design to Reality: What It Takes to Make a Part on a CNC Mill

From Design to Reality: What It Takes to Make a Part on a CNC Mill

Matthew Schowalter, CMfgT
CAD CAM, CAM, CNC Machining, CNC Programming, Machining, Machinist, Manufacturing, Precision Machining, Production Machining

CNC milling offers precise and flexible solutions for manufacturing. Beyond operating the machine, producing parts demands solid design skills, technical knowledge, and effective process management.

This article outlines the key steps in making a CNC-milled part, detailing the process from concept to finished product.

How to Advance Your Machining Career Without Leaving the Shop Floor

How to Advance Your Machining Career Without Leaving the Shop Floor

Matthew Schowalter, CMfgT
CNC Machining, CNC Programming, Engineer, Machining, Machinist, Manufacturing, Precision Machining, Production Machining, Professional Engineer

Many machinists prefer to stay on the shop floor, where their skill and craftsmanship transform raw material into precision parts. Remaining in a hands-on role does not limit career growth; you can continue to advance, increase your earnings, and gain respect without stepping away from the machines.

Inside the Shop: A Day in the Life of a Precision Machinist

Inside the Shop: A Day in the Life of a Precision Machinist

Matthew Schowalter, CMfgT
CAD CAM, CNC Machining, CNC Programming, Machining, Machinist, Manufacturing, Precision Machining, Production Machining, Soft Skills

The shop floor hums before the sun is fully up. The air carries a faint scent of machine oil, and the rhythmic clatter of metal on metal is already underway. For a precision machinist, the day doesn’t just begin with a clock-in, it begins with a mindset: accuracy above all else.

Explore and Learn About a Machining Career Path

Explore and Learn About a Machining Career Path

Matthew Schowalter, CMfgT
CNC Machining, CNC Programming, Machining, Machinist, Manufacturing, Soft Skills

Do You Have the Important Qualities for a Career in Machining?

  • Do you have a mechanical skillset?

  • Are you a technical person?

  • Do you excel at math?

If so, consider a career as a Machinist or Tool and Die Maker

What Skills Should a Machinist Have?

  • Mathematical Skills - Ability to add, subtract, multiply, divide, and compute basic trigonometry functions while choosing the right methods to solve the problem

  • Reasoning Ability - Ability to use common sense understanding and solve problems

  • Oral Comprehension - Ability to listen and understand information spoken

  • Computer Literacy - Ability to use a computer and work with Microsoft Office programs

  • Mechanical / Technical Skills - Must operate lathes, mills, grinders and other computer controlled machines

Machinists make components and parts on computer controlled manufacturing equipment such as a CNC lathe or a CNC mill.

Tool and die makers make tool, die and mold components and other industrial tools on manual and CNC equipment. They also fit the components together and align and assemble the industrial tools.