G-Code: A language used in CNC programming to control the movement and actions of the machine

Computer-Aided Design: A software used to create digital designs of parts or products.

CNC: Computer Numerical Control is a manufacturing process that utilizes computerized systems to control machine tools.

Abrasive blasting: A process that uses abrasive particles to remove surface contaminants or shape a workpiece.

Computer-Aided Manufacturing: A software that generates G-code from CAD designs.

CNC Machining Center: A machine tool that can perform multiple operations in a single setup.

Lathe: A machine tool used to cut and shape metal using a rotating tool.

Milling Machine: A machine tool used to remove material from a workpiece using a rotating cutting tool.

Turning: A machining operation that involves rotating a workpiece on a lathe and cutting away material with a cutting tool.

Milling: A machining operation that involves using a rotating cutting tool to remove material from a workpiece.

Drilling: A machining operation that involves creating holes in a workpiece using a drill bit.

Reaming: A machining operation that involves enlarging a previously drilled hole to a specific size.

Tapping: A machining operation that involves creating threads in a hole.

Boring: A machining operation that involves enlarging an existing hole to a specific size.

Facing: A machining operation that involves cutting a flat surface on the end of a workpiece

Chamfering: A machining operation that involves cutting a beveled edge on the corner of a workpiece.

Contouring: A machining operation that involves cutting a complex shape into a workpiece.

Engraving: A machining operation that involves cutting a design or lettering into a workpiece.

The texture of the surface of a machined part, which can be controlled by the machining process.

Toolpath: The path that a cutting tool takes during a machining operation.

Workholding: The method of securing a workpiece to a machine tool during a machining operation.

Fixture: A device used to hold a workpiece in a specific position during a machining operation.

Chuck: A device used to hold a workpiece on a lathe or milling machine.

Collect: A type of chuck that holds a workpiece by squeezing it around the circumference.

Tool Holder: A device used to hold a cutting tool in a machine tool.

Tool Insert: The replaceable cutting edge of a cutting tool.

Cutting Speed: The speed at which a cutting tool moves across the surface of a workpiece during a machining operation.

Feed Rate: The rate at which a cutting tool moves into a workpiece during a machining operation.

Depth of Cut: The distance that a cutting tool penetrates into a workpiece during a machining operation.

Chip: The small pieces of metal that are removed from a workpiece during a machining operation.

Coolant: A liquid used to cool and lubricate cutting tools during a machining operation.

Abrasive: A material used to grind, polish, or cut a workpiece.

EDM: Electrical Discharge Machining. A process that uses electrical sparks to erode metal from a workpiece.

Waterjet cutting: A process that uses a high-pressure stream of water to cut through metal.

Plasma cutting: A process that uses a high-temperature plasma arc to cut through metal.

Laser cutting: A process that uses a high-powered laser beam to cut through metal.

Tramp oil skimmer: A device used to remove oil that has mixed with coolant in a CNC machine sump. This helps to maintain the quality of the coolant and improve machining performance.

Coolant venturi mixer: A device used to mix coolant and air in a CNC machine. The mixture is then delivered to the cutting tool to improve the lubrication and cooling of the machining operation.

Coolant mixing proportioning pumps: A device used to mix coolant and water in a specific ratio to maintain the quality and concentration of the coolant.

BRIX: A unit of measurement used to measure the concentration of a coolant solution. It is used to ensure that the coolant concentration is within the recommended range for optimal machining performance.

Refractometers: A tool used to measure the BRIX or concentration of a coolant solution. It works by measuring the refractive index of the solution.

CNC sump maintenance: The process of maintaining the coolant system of a CNC machine. This includes monitoring coolant concentration, removing tramp oil, and cleaning the sump to prevent bacterial growth and maintain optimal machining performance.

Whether you are using a lathe, milling machine, or CNC machining center, a variety of cutting operations can be performed to shape and remove material from a workpiece. To achieve optimal machining performance, it is essential to maintain the quality and concentration of the coolant used to cool and lubricate cutting tools. This can be achieved through the use of tramp oil skimmers, coolant venturi mixers, coolant mixing proportioning pumps, BRIX and refractometers, and proper CNC sump maintenance. Additionally, other cutting processes such as EDM, waterjet cutting, plasma cutting, and laser cutting can be used to achieve specific shapes or cuts in metal.