Trends in the Machinist trade
Technology
Conventional machining skills continue to form the basis of the trade and are pre-requisite to being able to set up and program CNC machine-tools safely and efficiently.
Hybrid machines, which combine conventional and CNC features, continue to be part of the market.
Many advances in machine-tool configuration and technology, in particular CNC, as well as advances in cutting tools and fluids have increased efficiency and accuracy.
Quick change and modular tooling allows for easier and faster tool changes during setup and CNC machine operation. It allows for increased spindle uptime and simple tool pre-setting outside of the machine.
Additive manufacturing is a relatively new process that may open a lot of doors for manufacturing of complex components that were previously impossible or cost prohibitive to manufacture. Parts can be “grown” to near net size with complex internal porting and passages. Often, very little machining is required to bring these parts to their finished state. This technology is still being developed and as yet is not a prominent part of the machinist trade.
Most large scale manufacturers use some type of advanced data analysis to track factors such as whether machines are online or offline, number of parts produced, percentage of parts meeting requirements and whether delivery schedules are being met. Currently, this type of system is mainly implemented in high production environments.
Robotics continues to be a great asset in a high production atmosphere. They can be used to load and unload parts, sort components and assist in quality control. Their cost and complexity of setup may be a deterrent for smaller operations with lower production numbers.
Single setup machining uses multiple axes to reduce lead times and increase efficiency.
High-speed machining has the potential to revolutionize certain machining operations. By using specialized cutters and higher than conventional cutting speeds and feed rates, dramatically higher metal removal rates can be achieved while reducing heat in the cut as well as reducing cutting pressure.
Flexible manufacturing systems have been introduced; these machining systems can handle varying levels of manufacturing with a quickly changing machining environment. This method of producing goods is readily adaptable to changes in the product being manufactured.
Machinists may use computer-aided design (CAD) and/or computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software to program CNC machines to cut parts. Stand-alone toolpath verification software can provide a solution for detecting and avoiding tool and machine collisions. It can also verify NC codes.
Tool inventory systems allow for real time inventory status of all tools and instant assignment to particular jobs/tasks. With automation and development of wireless technology, tool management can go directly to the machine and machine operator. It improves security, storage and inventory control.
Work Practices
Workcells are areas set up within a manufacturing facility. They are part of the Lean Manufacturing Process. They are task focused and logically laid out to optimize resources, improve workflow and quality, and reduce waste.
Safety and Environmental
Enforcement and penalties for safety violations are becoming more stringent across Canada. These cover mandatory access to inspectors and stop work orders imposed until safety issues are resolved.
More stringent environmental regulations are having an impact on manufacturing processes across Canada.