Machine tools are the focus of this portion of our web guide.
Machine tools are stationary, power-driven machines that shape or form parts made of metal or other materials. This is achieved by cutting, shearing, squeezing, or applying electricity, ultrasound, or chemicals to the material.
Machine tools differ from power tools in that they are stationary, power-driven machines used for shaping or forming materials with high precision, while power tools are more portable, often handheld devices used for various tasks like drilling, cutting, and sanding.
There are some exceptions to the rule. For example, table saws are not easily portable and certainly not handheld. Yet, they are categorized as power tools rather than as machine tools. Likewise, lawnmowers are considered power tools.
Technology historians suggest that real machine tools came into being when machines started to guide the tool's path on their own, at least partially. In other words, humans no longer had to control the tool's path directly with their hands, feet, or mouth during the cutting or shaping.
Common examples of machine tools include lathes, milling machines, drill presses, and grinders.
While there are differences from one machine tool to another, the main components of machine tools are the bed, which is the base of the machine tool, providing support and stability; the spindle, which is the rotating axis of the machine, holding the workpiece or cutting tool; a tool post, which is the part that holds the cutting tool; the carriage, which is the component that moves the tool or workpiece in a controlled manner; and the control panel, which is the interface for operating the machine, often including digital displays and input devices.
Machine tools date back to the Industrial Revolution. The ancestors of machine tools were powered by human or animal muscle, although the advent of the steam engine in the 18th century ushered in the modern era of machine tools. The development of machine tools enabled mass production and the creation of interchangeable parts, which were crucial for the industrialization of manufacturing.
Modern machine tools are typically powered by electric motors, hydraulic systems, or pneumatic systems.
Automatic control of machine tools is primarily achieved through Computer Numerical Control. CNC machines use computer systems to control the movement and operation of the machine, allowing for high precision and repeatability in manufacturing processes.
Some of the leading machine tool manufacturers today include Mazak, DMG Mori, Haas Automation, and Okuma, although there are many others.
The technology powering machine tools continues to evolve, improving efficiency, precision, and automation in manufacturing processes.
Recommended Resources
The full-service industrial distributor focuses on CNC cutting tools and machine shop tooling, offering digital readout equipment, machine equipment and hardware, metal forming and cutting machines, milling machines and accessories, sanding machines, marking equipment, milling tools, threading tools, and other tools and supplies. An overview of the company, its services, reviews, career opportunities, and top brands are featured, along with e-catalogs, a quote request form, and contacts.
https://allindustrial.com/
Kent Industrial USA specializes in the manufacture and distribution of high-quality machine tools, including grinders, lathes, and milling machines. Located in Tustin, California, the company was founded in 1979. Its early focus was on surface grinders, but the company has evolved to produce advanced CNC equipment used in grinding, milling, turning, and EDMs. Stocking a wide range of machines, Kent USA had distributors in Costa Rica, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Mexico.
https://www.kentusa.com/
Founded in 1958, the company focuses on importing machine tools and machining equipment, automation, engineering solutions, as well as application expertise, with more than three hundred experts serving customers in regional technical centers across the United States. Headquartered in Massachusetts, Methods has locations in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Its machine brands and automation platforms are listed and defined, and its products and services are listed on the website.
https://www.methodsmachine.com/
Based in Japan, Okuma is a machine tool builder with a global market share in CNC machine tools, such as CNC lathes, machining centers, and turn-mill machining centers, as well as factory automation products and servomotors. Founded in 1898, the company's early products were lathes, although its product line has expanded considerably. Its products, technology, customer care services, industries, and knowledge center are featured. Distributors may be found through the website.
https://www.okuma.com/
Headquartered in Oguchi, Japan, Mazak was founded in 1919, at which time it was making pots and pans. During the 1920s, it progressed from mat-making machinery to woodworking machinery to metalworking machine tools, particularly lathes. In the 1960s, Mazak expanded to the U.S. market, establishing an onshore presence in the United States, including machine tool-building operations. In the 1980s, it expanded into the European and UK markets. Its machines and technology are discussed.
https://www.mazakusa.com/
The YCM Alliance is a collaboration of machine tool brands, dealers, and experts working together to provide comprehensive machining solutions. They focus on delivering high-quality CNC machining tools and systems for various applications, including general parts machining, die/mold machining, and ultra-high-tolerance milling. The Alliance offers a range of products, such as milling machines, turning centers, and EDM solutions, along with consulting, installation, training, and ongoing support.
https://www.ycmalliance.com/
