Introduction to Shaping Machine
A shaping machine is a type of machine tool used for producing a desired geometric shape on a workpiece with the help of a precision cutting tool. It is one of the oldest and most versatile machine tools used in production today. In current usage, the shaping machine is typically a horizontal slow speed machine, usually utilizing a reciprocating table, with a form cutters mounted to an arbor, which is collinearly driven along a guide rail.
Shaping machines are usually used in mass production operations, such as for the production of bolts, screws, and other fasteners. It is also used to produce small parts for a variety of applications, including aviation, electronics, and medical parts. In addition, shapes can be cut into a variety of metals, plastics, and woods. The design of the machine, including its size and shape, is determined by the application and the material.
The shaping machine typically consists of a support or table, a cutting head or tool holder, an arbor, and one or more feed rolls. The feed rolls are used to control the speed and direction of the cutting head. The table is used to support the workpiece and hold it in a consistent and stable position throughout the cutting process. The arbor is a rotating shaft on which the form cutters are mounted. The cutters can be changed to meet the desired shape requirements.
When delivering a form-cut, the operator moves the feed roll and the cutting head to the desired location. The cutting head is then engaged and set in motion. A guide is often used to ensure that the cutters are guided along the appropriate path. The form-cut is then completed, and the workpiece is removed from the machine for further processing.
The main parts of a shaping machine are:
Table: This is used to provide a stable platform for the cutting process and to secure the workpiece.
Feed Roll: This is used to control the speed and movement of the cutting head.
Arbor: This is a rotating shaft on which the form cutters are mounted.
Form Cutters: These are specialized cutting tools used to produce the desired shape.
The cutting action of a shaping machine is controlled by a number of factors including:
Feed rate: This is the speed at which the cutting head is moved.
Spindle RPM (revolutions per minute): This is the speed at which the form cutters rotate.
Tool path: This is the path the cutting head follows in order to produce the desired shape.
A shaping machine is a versatile piece of machinery that can be used to produce parts in a variety of shapes and sizes. It is a useful tool for production operations, and is often used in the manufacture of bolts, screws, and other fasteners. The design of the machine, including its size and shape, is determined by the application and the material. The cutting action of a shaping machine can be controlled by a number of factors including feed rate, spindle RPM, and tool path.
