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:

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.

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.

Is it possible to drill a square hole? Many will snicker at this age-old question and say, “Of course you can’t drill a square hole!” Well, it turns out you most certainly can drill a square hole… and a rectangular hole, and a hexagon shaped hole, a hole with splines, double keyways — the list goes on and on!

​Hello, and welcome to the Hurco blog. I will be updating and posting something new each week on a variety of different subject matter: high-speed and 5-axis machining, workholding, the latest control technologies, and Hurco tips-and-tricks…just to name a few.