Using a Single Tool to Accomplish Multiple Processes

Reducing inventory and managing multiple operations is key factor in today’s competitive manufacturing world. Fox and Turner describe the application of face milling to eliminate the traditional method of drilling and boring. Using interpolation a face mill can be effectively used to drill holes. Thanks to the advancement in the computer technology to manage all the complex calculations for the helical interpolation. This operation is suitable if the surface finish requirements are not better than 125 Ra and tolerances not tighter than 0.002 inches. Also the method is cost effective for holes which are larger than 6 inches in diameter. Fox also describes the difference between drilling with an end mill versus a face mill and limitations of using a face mill in extremely large diameter holes and tight tolerance parts. Complete article can be accessed here.