Mark Albert Editor Emeritus

Impressions of JIMTOF

This show is characterized by an emphasis on practical solutions and forward-looking concepts from global leaders in machine tool technology.

The Anatomy of an End Mill for Titanium

Titanium is often characterized as a “challenging workpiece material.” Certainly, machining this material is a challenge to milling machines, cutting tools and workholding accessories that are suitable for machining more common materials such as mild steel, cast iron or aluminum.

A Compact but Rigid VMC for Machining Titanium Blades

In recent years, machine tool builders have developed models specifically designed for the efficient machining of titanium and other hard metals.

Expanded Anti-Pullout System Enables Secure Titanium Milling with ER Collet Systems

Because of the extreme forces involved in machining titanium and other hard metals, it is necessary to take precautions to avoid pullout—the tendency for a cutting tool such as an end mill to gradually loosen in its holder and possibly be twisted out entirely.

A Vision of the Data-Driven Factory

The Mazak iSmart Factory concept focuses on digital integration to achieve free-flow data sharing for process control and operation monitoring. This machine tool builder is implementing this vision in its factories now.

JIMTOF 2014 slide show

The Genetic Code for Manufacturing Success

The theme for JIMTOF 2014 was "Monozukuri DNA." Translated, this means that craftsmanship along with the latest technology are the best predictors that a manufacturing company will have the traits to succeed in a competitive environment. This slideshow presents a sample of the technology offered at Japan's biggest and most important machine tool show.

The Decision Not to Automate Fully

Robotic automation for this machining line was feasible, but the company chose to run it 24/7 with a staff hired just for this job.

The Joy of CNC Machining

James A. Harvey's new book, "CNC Trade Secrets, A Guide to CNC Machine Shop Practices," offers great advice and oodles of practical tips and checklists for shop personnel newly introduced to CNC machining. What makes the book readable and appealing is that the author clearly enjoys working with CNC technology.

Tool Data at the Cutting Edge

Visitors to IMTS 2014 may have noticed that some cutting tool manufacturers did not have row upon row of new product displays in their booths. Why? Because the emphasis has shifted to data about cutting tools.

A Production Line Takes Shape

Although Pointe Precision built its reputation on low-volume, high-complexity aerospace and medical parts, its expansive high-volume production line may be its biggest success to date. Sound decision-making and attention to details at every step are the keys to this success.

Centerline Issues for Turning Inserts

Tooling experts Mike Fagan and David Grant suspect that many programmers and machinists could use a refresher on the importance and effects of insert alignment in turning operations. This short, amply-illustrated paper is their effort to clear up some of the misunderstanding.