Machine Tool Technology

Almost every product made by American industry contains metal parts or is manufactured by machines made of metal parts. Many of these parts are cut to precise dimensions by machining workers who use a wide variety of machine tools. Over one million persons are employed as machinists, tool and die makers, instrument makers, machine tool operators, set-up and lay-out people.

The principle job of most machine workers is to operate machine tools. The most common types of machine tools are lathes, grinding machines, milling machines, broachers, saws, EDM (electronic discharge machining), either conventional or CNC (computer numerical control).

Accuracy is of prime importance for most metal machining work. Machining workers follow directions generally given in the form of a blueprint. Precision measuring instruments are used to check the accuracy of work against the blueprint specifications.

There are many advancement opportunities for the experienced machinist. Many become supervisors others may, with specialized training, become tool and die makers. Machine Shop is the basic background for quality control, metallurgy, programming CNC equipment, and many other machine related fields.

This program is designed to train students to set-up and safely operate machine tools such as milling machines, lathes, surface grinders, EDM’s and drill presses. Students also learn to determine dimensions and tolerances of a part to be machined, sequence of operations, and the tools, materials, and machines required to make that part from blueprint, sketch, damaged part or description of the part to be replaced. In addition to the traditional shop machines, the most modern Computer Numerical Control (CNC) equipment is available for students to receive hands-on experience. Basic instruction is also given in blueprint reading and mathematics, precision measuring and metallurgy (the study of metallic science).

Estimated time to complete: 20 months

Email instructor for more information at: machinetool@ttcnewbern.edu