Metallic Cutting Machine Tool Nomenclature and Classification Table
Metallic cutting machine tools refer to special purpose machines and equipment that are used to perform a variety of functions including, conventional cutting and finishing operations, such as turning, drilling, broaching, grinding and milling. They are usually automated and used in production environments where repeatability, accuracy and efficiency are paramount.
The purpose of this document is to provide a unified nomenclature for metallic cutting machine tools and to classify them according to their intended operations. This guide is a resource for engineers, designers and machine shop owners who rely on metric cutting machine tools to get the best performance out of their systems.
Classification of Metallic Cutting Machine Tools
Metallic cutting machine tools are categorized according to the cutting and finishing operations they are primarily intended to perform. These categories can be broken down into three primary groups; (1) turning machines, (2) milling machines and (3) grinding machines.
Turning machines are designed to perform a variety of cylindrical operations, such as machining, engraving, and surface finishing. These range from basic lathes that perform basic turning operations, to complex machining centers that can perform complex milling and drilling operations.
Milling machines are designed to machine a wide range of parts with different shapes and sizes. These range from vertical milling machines, which are designed for general machining operations, to specialized operations such as die sinking, gear cutting, jig boring and threading.
Grinding machines are designed for precision grinding operations, such as surface grinding, cylindrical grinding, and ID/OD grinding. These machines feature rotating grinding wheels that are used to shape and form surfaces, edges, and profiles of work pieces in multiple dimensions.
Unified Nomenclature for Metallic Cutting Machine Tools
In order to facilitate consistent communication across all metallic cutting machine tool applications, a unified nomenclature system has been adopted. This system applies to all classifications of machine tools, and is intended to promote best practices and provide a means of establishing uniform industry standards.
All machine tool manufacturers and suppliers should adopt the following unified nomenclature system for all planning, ordering and record keeping processes:
•Category – This series of descriptive terms is used to identify the primary operations and functions the machine is intended to perform. This can be either turning, milling, grinding, EDM, etc.
•Type Number – This numerical designation is used to differentiate between the various classes of machine tools within a single category.
•Series – This designator is generally an alphanumeric code that is used to identify a family of machines or products within a given type.
•Model – This designation further refines the product and will generally contain additional alphanumeric codes that are used to identify specific options, components or features of the machine tool.
Conclusion
The use of a standardized nomenclature system and the classification and categorization of metallic cutting machine tools is essential in the support and enhancement of efficient and effective workflows, materials management, and overall business operations. This document provides a unified nomenclature and classification system for metallic cutting machine tools that can be used to facilitate communication within the industry.
