Jan 15

Jan 15 What is Precision Machining?

CNC Machining, Machining, Machinist, Manufacturing, Precision Machining

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.

Jan 7

Jan 7 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.

Jan 4

Jan 4 What is CNC Machining?

Matthew Schowalter, CMfgT

CNC Machining, Machining, Machinist, Manufacturing

CNC is an acronym for Computer Numerical Controlled. CNC is a type of machining practice. Besides CNC the other type of machining is manual machining. In CNC machining the workpiece is held in the machine and the CNC Programmer writes code so that the CNC machine can machine the workpiece. The CNC Machinist sets up and operates the CNC machine and oversees the machining process.

Jan 11

Jan 11 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.