Simply defined, a machine tool is a powered and fixed mechanical device that is highly useful in the shaping or cutting of materials, usually metal. When it comes to their operation, they can be operated either by humans or by computers
Machine tools are used to create manufactured parts, such as components for the automotive, aerospace, energy, and medical technology industries. They can also be used to create replacement parts for imported machines and equipment.
Evolution of machine Tools.
In the beginning, there was the woodcar lathe. This was the earliest prototype of the machine tool and it was born more than 2,000 years ago. In the 13th Century however, another machine tool was born. This was the pedal lathe. Back then, people used a pedal to rotate the crankshaft and drive the flywheel, which was then driven to the spindle to rotate this “pedal lathe.”
By the end of the 19th century however, a complete revolution had taken place in the working and shaping of metals that created the basis for mass production and an industrialized society. It is safe to argue therefore that the industrial revolution saw the wide range of machine tool evolution.. The 20th century has therefore witnessed the introduction of numerous refinements of these machine tools.
Machine tools by the industrial revolution were a great driving force because they enabled mass production of high quality yet cheap goods.
How are machine tools powered?
Machine tools have undergone various power transformations over the years since their evolution. Back then, manual efforts were the primary force behind these tools. However, as technology has advanced over time, there is little use for manual power in running machine tools.
In the 20th Century, water and steam became dominant power sources for running machine tools. Also with the help of electricity, electric motors became the predominant drivers. Today, we find a combination of electric, hydraulic, and even pneumatic systems powering machine tools. Some advanced machine tools are even powered by computer numerical control (CNC) systems.
Safe Operation of Machine Tools.
The abundance of machine tools in modern manufacturing brings with it a big responsibility which is ensuring the safety of the machine tool operators. Though machines have transformed industries, they also pose risks if mishandled. Operators should therefore strive to keep safe while operating machine tools.
Regular and precise Training.
Machine Tool operators should undergo regular training sessions. They always need to be updated regarding the various skills and knowledge that needs to be incorporated with machine tools in order to enhance safety in operations..
Prompt following of emergency protocols.
Better safe than sorry, right? It is safer for machine operators to always have an emergency stop button within reach and be familiar with its location. In case of dangerous situations, this could be their savior.
Use of protective gear.
It is highly recommended for machine tool operators to always wear safety goggles, gloves, and ear protection when operating these machines.
Keeping a clean work area.
A tidy workspace minimizes the risk of accidents and enhances the efficiency of machine tool operations.
Basic Types of machine tools and their uses.
Shapers.
Shapers utilize a single-point cutting tool that moves linearly against a stationary work piece. The tool moves back and forth while the work piece is held still. Produce flat surfaces. They are majorly used to Cut slots, Keyways and to generate contoured surfaces
Turning Machines.
Turning machines, often known as lathes, are among the oldest and most essential machine tools. The workpiece rotates about its axis while the cutting tool, held in a fixed position, removes material to shape the object. They are majorly used to create cylindrical parts, to Screw threads, for Tapered work and also to drill holes.
Drilling machines.
Drilling machines are designed for making holes. A rotating cutting tool, the drill, presses against a stationary workpiece, penetrating the surface and creating a hole.
Gang drills.
Gang drills consist of several drills on a single machine, enabling simultaneous multiple drilling operations. Multiple spindles, operating in tandem, allow for efficient production. They are used in high-volume production and in manufacturing identical parts in bulk
Planners.
Planers are quite similar to shapers but the difference is that they operate on a larger scale. Here, the workpiece moves linearly beneath a stationary cutting tool. They are popular for machining large parts and producing flat surfaces on big workpieces
Production Millers.
Production millers are specialized milling machines optimized for mass production. Similar to standard milling machines but enhanced for speed and efficiency in large-scale operations. They are commonly used in Mass production industries and for High-speed machining.
Milling Machines.
Milling machines are quite versatile tools. They employ rotating multi-point cutting tools to remove material from a workpiece. The workpiece is held stationary while the cutting tool rotates. Their application is majorly seen in Producing intricate shapes, slot and keyway cutting, planing and drilling
Power saws.
Power saws are tools designed for cutting solid materials, especially wood, metal, and stone. Typically, a hard blade, wire, or chain with a serrated edge is driven by a motor. They are commonly used in Lumber cutting, metal fabrication and stone cutting.
Grinding Machines.
Grinding machines refine the workpiece by an abrasive wheel as the cutting tool. The abrasive grains on the wheel surface cut tiny chips from the workpiece, producing a smooth finish. They are used for Surface finishing and sharpening cutting tools
Broaching Machines
Broaching machines are special-purpose tools used for precision machining. A linear motion pulls or pushes the broach over the workpiece, removing material in a controlled manner. They are majorly used in Keyway machining in gears and non-circular hole making
Lapping Machines.
Lapping machines are designed for precision surfacing. They use a soft iron tool, coated with abrasive powder, which rubs against the workpiece to achieve a smooth finish. They are popular for refining high precision flat surfaces and achieving a polished finish on metal parts.
Presses.
Presses are fundamental in the manufacturing process. These tools exert pressure to cut or shape materials, primarily metal. Presses operate by applying force on a material placed between two close-fitting parts. They are used for forming sheet metals, coining operations in mints and molding plastics.
Gear cutting Machines.
These are engineered for producing gears, a crucial component in many mechanical assemblies. Gear-cutting machines employ a specialized cutting tool called a hob or a gear shaper to remove material and produce gears. They are used for manufacturing gears for industries like automotive and aerospace and producing precision gear components
Boring Machines.
Boring machines are used to enlarge holes that have been drilled previously. The machine rotates a boring head that contains one or more cutting tools. The head is moved linearly to remove material and enlarge the hole. They are used for enlarging engine cylinders as well as achieving precise hole dimensions in manufacturing.
Laser cutting machines.
When it comes to the realm of machine tools, laser cutting machines have established a notable presence in the industry. They leverage the immense power of lasers to cut materials, offering unparalleled precision. A high-power laser beam is directed at the material which then either melts, burns, vaporizes away, or is blown away by a jet of gas, leaving an edge with a high-quality surface finish. They are used in sheet metal fabrication, automotive parts, aerospace components and signage and art installations.
As far as machine tools are involved, there are various types and each tool has it’s unique and specific function as fore mentioned. It is highly upon an operator to choose the machine that meets their needs.
