John Miller President

John Miller is the columnist behind the Modern Machine Shop Miller’s Edge column. He brings broad experience, and a pragmatic approach to metalcutting problems through his company Way Of The Mill. Way Of The Mill supports shops of all sizes through online content, and in-shop training and consulting.

Additive Manufacturing 19 Dec 2024

How Additive Can Complement Subtractive Manufacturing

Think of additive and subtractive as complementary processes, rather than being in opposition.

Workholding 21 Nov 2024

Prioritizing Workholding Density Versus Simplicity

Determining whether to use high-density fixtures or to simplify workholding requires a deeper look into the details of your parts and processes.

6 Nov 2024

Should You Add Linear Scales to Your Machine?

Knowing how scales will influence machine accuracy will help you decide if they’re worth the extra investment.

Metalworking Fluids 31 Oct 2024

Considerations for Machining Coolant Care

Coolant care can be simply managed if you know where to pay attention and which hazards to look out for.

Tooling 16 Sep 2024

Tips for Fine-Tuning RPM

Thoughtful considerations will set you on a shortened path to the most optimized solution once cutter meets metal.

Basics 21 Aug 2024

Tips for Monitoring Spindle Loads and Cutting Stability

When it comes to utilizing the spindle’s power, there is a lot of headroom at the upper limits, provided it’s in short bursts. Be mindful of your time at these loads so you don’t stall out.

Tooling 17 Jul 2024

5 Tool Setting Techniques

Each tool setting technique has merit, and it depends on where you are as a shop and the type of work you do, as cost and efficiency all come into play.

Basics 12 Jun 2024

3 Considerations for Revising Design for Manufacturing Efforts

When revising part designs, investigate the 3D CAD, the 2D drawing and the part’s functional requirements to determine which details should be tightened up.