The first machines ever used by early man are considered to be the bow lathe and the bow drill. Both of these early machining tools are used for shaping a material by removing unwanted heft. Today, this same method is used on metals. Yet as time tested as these methods are, improper maintenance can still lead to problems. Here are a few tips on avoiding common machine shop repairs.
What exactly Is Machining?
The bow lathe may have first been handcrafted and used in Ancient Egypt around 1200 B.C.E. or so by some estimates. As such it was not shaping the hard metals offered by this century’s machine shop services. A machining tool refers to a tool that shapes metal or other rigid materials. The process is sometimes called machining metal.
What Are Some of the Processes of Machining Tools?
It is important to understand how machining works so as to not overtax the machines. Machine shop repairs are often required when a machine is pushed past its capabilities. While machining is primarily used for removing unwanted material from the metal for shaping, it is also used for:
Boring
Turning
Threading
Facing
What Are the Special Qualities Needed In Machining Metal?
Clearly, if these tools are shaping metal, then they must be made of a strong and durable material. It is this durability and hardiness that must be maintained. The high amount of pressure used to perform the shaping and other tasks of machining requires all parts to be in good working order to prevent future machine shop repair work.
What Can You Do to Prevent Machine Shop Repairs?
A solid maintenance plan needs to be in place to avoid unnecessary machine shop repairs. Good standard operating procedures, or an SOP, is one step towards getting employees on the same page. Proper training is also a must. Odd noises are a clear sign something is wrong, however most possible problems will not be so obvious. Check the belts, lathes, and other parts on a regular schedule.
Machining tools have been around for a long time because they are useful. While the machines have become more durable over the many years, the basic idea remains the same. To keep your shop’s machines running on schedule, keep a regular maintenance schedule.
