What is Fitting & Machining?
Focuses on the manufacturing and machining of machines parts using processes such as lathe turning, milling, cutting, shaping, fitting of keys, couplings, bushes, shafts and bearings.
Turning is a machining process in which a cutting tool, typically a non-rotary tool bit, moves more or less linearly while the work piece rotates. Turning can be done manually, in a traditional form of lathe, or by using an automated lathe. Today the most common type of such automation is computer numerical control, better known as CNC. (CNC is also commonly used with many other types of machining besides turning.)
When turning, a piece of relatively rigid material is rotated and a cutting tool is traversed along axes of motion to produce precise diameters and depths. Turning can be either on the outside of the cylinder or on the inside (also known as to produce tubular components of various geometries.
The turning processes are typically carried out on a lathe, considered to be the oldest machine tools, and can be of four different types, namely straight turning, taper turning, profiling or external grooving. These types of turning processes can produce various shapes of materials such as straight, conical, curved or grooved work pieces. In general, turning uses simple, single-point cutting tools. Each group of work piece materials have an optimum set of tool angles which have been developed through the years.
Milling operates on the principle of rotary motion. A milling cutter is spun about an axis while a work piece is advanced through it in such a way that the cutters are able to shave chips of material. This non-continuous cutting operation means that no surface cut by a milling machine will ever be completely smooth; at a very close level (microscopic for very fine feed rates), it will always contain regular ridges.
Who is best suited for Fitting & Machining?
The Fitting and Machining pathway course is for individuals whose duties include performing engineering measurements, calculations, planning activities, a range of cutting processes, use drawings and mark out, maintain drives, and precision work, use lathes and mills.
Possible career opportunities for graduates include:
- Mechanical Engineer
- Fitter Machinist
- Fitter and Turner
- Mechanical Fitter
- Maintenance Fitter
- Tool And Die Maker