CNC Machining Blog - Tips and Tricks for Machinists

As machinists, we are all aware of the standard tools of our trade. However, there are other non-standard tools available that not everyone is aware of and could be very helpful in our day-to-day life in the job shop. Just like any other industry, if there is a time consuming and mundane procedure that must be completed, you can bet that somewhere there is someone who has already invented a tool or device that would make that task easier.

Here is a list of helpful products for machinists that addresses workholding, fixture building, part and tool setup, coolant nozzles and more:

As many of you are already aware, the Absolute Tool Length method of tool calibration has become the industry standard for measuring and recording the length of individual cutting tools on milling machines. This method of tool measurement not only produces numerical values that make sense to the operator, and can easily be verified with a pocket scale, but will also allow for tool lengths to be set offline using a presetter - and then the data can simply be entered into the tool setup for that particular tool…helping to reduce setup time at the machine.

I was asked by a reader to post an article about using subprograms. Although this is a pretty simple subject, it made me realize that not everyone is familiar with the use of subprograms and subroutines. I will also touch on the use of Hurco’s conversational NC Merge capability, which is powerfully simple and very useful!

We discussed the basics of mill-turn CNC technology in a past blog article. Today, I would like to build on that basic foundation.

On a regular basis I am asked to explain something pertaining to live-tool machining on a lathe, or "mill-turn," as it is commonly referred to in the industry. Even people with a CNC turning background are sometimes a little confused, especially in the areas of tooling and when the use of an additional Y-axis is necessary.

In this article, I will shine some light on the basics of live-tool machining and the application of the optional Y-axis.

Previously, I posted an article explaining the CNC motion control system and how it works. In that article, I tried to keep it very simple and break down a quite complex piece of technology into an easy-to-understand analogy. Today, I want to discuss it in a little more detail and point out some exciting advances in motion control technology.

I recently received a request from a reader to talk about what is under the sheet metal on the Hurco machines, and to discuss the components that make them so rock solid. Having been a fan of Hurco machines for quite some time now, I am happy to oblige this request.

It is possible to drill very deep holes, even small diameter holes, without the need for pecking cycles and in half the cycle time thanks to some really cool science that goes way over my head. Although this technology doesn’t apply solely to hole drilling, it seems to be the area with the biggest impact.