Business of Machining

  Saunders on feeling overwhelmed and a defining moment at Pierson Workholding. Can daily tasks actually KILL your business? "You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems." - James Clear Marketing  Business accounting Tool life for lathe parting inserts

TOPICS: Saunders is starting 2021 off great with their ERP system and staying busy with orders. Saunders also tells us about his broken tool on the lathe.   Grimsmo has been getting their Okamoto surface grinder up and running and it has been awesome! The big news out of Grimsmo is that the Rask is back! They have been hard at work for almost 4 years to bring back the Rask.  

TOPICS:  Grimsmo starts us off with a smooth lead in SMW Product Demand Increases & The Struggle to Reduce Lead Time  Super Helpful Tools & Gadgets (Scales & Pallet Jacks) https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200680712_200680712 Precision  Abbe's Principle The Perfectionists: How Precision Engineers Created the Modern World A Crazy Metrology Question on the NYCCNC Forum Toolpath & Product Improvements Reliable Processes VS. Cycle Time Using templates for easier programming Conventional VS. Climb Milling

2020 has been a wild year, and we are sure you are tired of hearing about it by now. But here at the Business of Machining we decide to reflect on the positives. Thank you to everyone for being with us throughout this year!   Grimsmo has found a solution to lift very heavy objects within their shop without the need of a forklift. It takes them back to the old Volvo days in the garage. Saunders is playing with a Vortex cold air gun and is having a literal blast.

TOPICS: - Podcast Feedback & Developing a Consistent Opening Statment - Strategy: Learning Your Customer Base & SEO - Email from Brewery | ERP VS Wiki - Covid Hits Close to Home at SMW - Staffing A Growing Business & The Concert Mindset - Recycling Chips: The Need for a Compactor

Grimsmo makes a big move and purchased a Okamoto surface grinder! Saunders' offers his input and general advice on purchasing new machinery. The boys talk about the potential of using "Slack" in their respective companies. This could help bridge the gap between consumer and company and it is worth looking at.   Saunders has started to step away from his ERP system "LEX" to let his team run it. While Grimsmo works very very hard to get shipping Rasks before the end of the year, how exciting!

Business of Machining has now reached it's 200th episode! That's 3.84 years of "private" conversations about manufacturing and growing small businesses.  A sincere thank you to the listeners out there--or as we've lovingly dubbed them, "parking lot circlers." In the past 4 years, this podcast has been downloaded over 1 million times!    TOPICS: - The importance of authenticity - Detailed trips down memory lane for both Grimsmo Knives and Saunders Machine Works.   - Mental Health & Tony Hseih 

Saunders & Grimsmo are ending of the year with expansion! Both shops are on similar growth paths in their respective shops. Grimsmo has hired on Pierre to help boost production, while Saunders has hired 3 people around his shop.   Grimsmo's surface grinder should be here in a couple of weeks! Which means they have to make some room for it and figure out how to bring it into the work flow.   Top 10 List for entrepreneurs   Saunders' describes how "Lex" is formatted. Going in depth about the benefits of an ERP system when it just works. Grimsmo and Saunders talk in depth about pride. Pride often gets confused with arrogance, but letting the pride replace arrogance is a step we all need to think about.

TOPICS:  Auctions, Warranties, and Riggers Is Saving Money the Ultimate Purchase Factor? Developing Decision Making Framework Formalizing the Interview Process Tom Lipton's Test Jig Pierre - New to GK Team SMW Phase 5 of Shop Overhaul Machine Modifications for Chip Evacuation & Larger Coolant Tanks Water & Coolant Delivery System Update Vendors and Relationships DLC Coating Sandvik QS Holder

The boys have been crazy busy this week. Saunders' and his team have developed a little bit of a safe word around the shop. PINEAPPLE! This signifies that the person is safe. For example, if you hear a loud bang or somebody drops something and hear the safe word. Than you know that person is ok! Its actually a very good idea especially when you have a lot of ground to cover or a lot of employees. Saunders' also visited the Grob machine manufacturing facility in Ohio! He said that he had an awesome time and learned a lot while he was there.   "Confidence is a superpower" - Robin Renzetti The boys also touch on quality control methods. This is especially important in both Grimsmo & Saunders' shops because of the attention to detail needed for both products. Grimsmo is also buying an Okamoto surface grinder! This is a machine that was thought about for a long while and they are finally pulling the trigger.

Today the Johns are reppin' each other by sporting SMW and GK tees.  Grimsmo Knives Tee SMW Tee TOPICS: Orange Vise Tour Grimsmo's Next Machines Process for Pressing Bearings into Bearing Cages Surface Grinding Machines - CNC or Manual? Air Compressors & Sound Proofing Tasks - Batching VS. Whack-A-Mole Organizational Chart - G Suite Alias Emails SMW is Hiring! SMW Careers  

Have you ever had such a premium custom table experience that ruined every other table in the world for you? Well Saunders has! He is loving the MakerPipe table systems to make some custom solutions for his shop. You can find Makerpipe here.   Both Grimsmo and Saunders are falling more in love with the idea of full ERP integration in their respective shops. Grimsmo especially are looking to get very creative with "GERP".   Saunders needs a new air compressor while John reminisces about the old shops compressor that would constantly be yelling in the background.   Both shops are looking at expanding the team! Saunders is considering hiring a marketing strategist while Grimsmo had two working interviews with some great potential team members! Things are looking great but we are going to need a bigger boat!   Grimsmo has a new book he has been reading called "E-Myth Mastery: The Seven Essential Disciplines for Building a World-Class Company". The book is a must read for any business owner big or small to teach some essential habits and disciplines.

RASK KNIVES ON HOMESTRETCH, LIGHTS OUT MANUFACTURING, LATHE CRASHES, DATA & TOOL LIFE MANAGEMENT, MACRO VARIABLES, Q PARAMETERS, FUSION 360 BUG, PROVENCUT PART SERIES, and MORE! Machining Verbiage The new rule is that when running machines, you add "ING" to the end of the machine brand name to create a new CNC-centric gerund. Acceptable examples are: KEARN--ING TORNOS--ING HAAS--ING TORMACH--ING A BUMP IN THE NIGHT... Just when you think it's dialed, you hit the lights and leave the shop only to be welcomed in the morning by 200-300 scrapped parts. Grimsmo shares this one minor detail that derailed the entire lights-out process. Saunders points out that evaluating problems further up stream is worth doing! FRIDAY - DATE NIGHT WITH A LATHE CRASH The ST-20Y is set to run the one and done, dialed process for SMW diamond pins but the lathe insert broke on the 2nd pin. And that's not all. Not only was the insert blown, the parting blade took a huge crap! Luckily, Saunders had back up blades on hand, right? WRONG!  With similar experiences being shared between them, they embark on an in-depth conversation about tool life management, tool counting, macro variables, and Q parameters. The question remains: how do you incorporate these into your shop operations successfully? Forget textbooks---except the one Grimsmo is a true FAN...uc (I mean, fan of) Fanuc CNC Custom Macros: Programming Resources for Fanuc Custom Macro B Users  Machines Personified Remember the poetic interpretation of Mars Rover's final message to NASA? While the rover never explicitly said, "My battery is low and it's getting dark," that partially humanistic phrase still managed to evoke a tinge of sadness for many. Why? We have a long history of personifying everything under, and including, the sun. In a strange way, machines have their own temperaments, quirks, likes, and dislikes--and that might be why it feels kind of sad leaving them alone in the dark. Fusion 360 - Team Hubs & Documented Bug The guys discuss migrating to Team Hubs and the importance of a local back-up copy of data. By the skin of his teeth, Grimsmo saves his butt by using Instagram to approximate the date of the correct version of a specific file. During a livestream, Saunders stumbles across a bug that is driving EVERYONE insane! Finally, Grimsmo discusses how one tiny checked boxed beside, "Make Sharp Corners" has been life changing! Click here for the HSS Spline Shaft Tool Video that incorporates spring passes + make sharp corners for awesome results. ProvenCut Part Series Saunders announces a new addition to ProvenCut that makes it more than just a library! Now, you can find parts similar to what you want to machine, select the machine and type of material, use the mouse to hover over the part to see which types of operations were used, and more! The first part being added to the series is a T-nut and there will be many more to come!  RASK IN HAND & FINE TUNING All parts have been made and now the only things left are final tweaks for the surface finish, fit, and solving the 5-10% lock-stick issue. Grinding is all systems go. The blades are now the best they've ever been! Rebuilding The Shop - Custom Tables and Benches for Organization For Saunders, rebuilding the shop has been in progress for several months now but it's still like a breath of fresh air! He's excited to meet up with someone from Maker Pipe who's offered to help with custom solutions to get SMW to the next level!

John & John go over the never ending struggle of the classic make vs buy scenario. This time they are talking about making a custom shipping table to help speed up Saunders' work flow. Grimsmo has a Canadian version called FlexPipe.   Saunders' has been doing some WORK when it comes to Automatic Brix reading of coolant systems. He has been using a digital refractometer that you can find two versions of them here. ATAGO MASTER-20M Atago PAL-1   John Grimsmo is still struggling with the Kern. It has been full of little victories and bigger issues. Luckily Angelo had a good idea that helped solve a grinding problem!

Solopreneurs, Robots & Payloads, ERP + Inventory Tracking, Brix, Automated Coolant Distribution, and MORE! Business of Machining Podcast = The Manufacturing Entrepreneurcast You CAN Be The Crazy Guy In Your Garage Forever! The idea of expanding beyond oneself or even becoming self-employed isn't enticing to everyone---and that's okay! Grimsmo reflects on his evolution from solopreneur to entrepreneur and Saunders shares an experience with an electrician who likes his gig just the way it is. Speaking of Solopreneurs, check out this shop update with Adam Demuth, an incredible machinist who made the shift from a 9-5 to being self-employed. If you're not into stress but want to run a business, Adam's zen-rific perspective on entrepreneurship is perfect for you! Also, check out the Precision Microcast hosted by Adam and Joshua Hacko from Nicholas Hacko Watchmaker! Lockwood Begs to Differ Idealizing the infallibility of robots is nice and all but Rob's administering a heavy dose of truth! "Why are we not better at this already!?"  Saunders is disappointed in our lack of progress when it comes to payload issues for FANUC robot arms. Not to worry, 5th Axis is working on it! Check out their videos here! THIS SUCKS! (but it will be worth it) During Phase 3/4 of Nuking the Shop, Saunders faces the fact that all material and supplies must be removed from the racking and the team will have to start from square one. While discussing one of their new favorite topics, tracking inventory, we learn that the Johns are taking different approaches when it comes to quantities! BRIX, The Holy Crap Scenario, and "Screw This, I'm Goin' Home!" The guys outline the specifics of their automated coolant delivery systems and air lines. They discuss solenoids, refractometers, ball valves with external motors, IoT (internet of things), Mixtrons, and MORE! They share progress, plans, and solutions to problems. Find out what Grimsmo means by "The Holy Crap Scenario" and the situation that made him throw in the towel, so-to-speak. The Smoking Gun--I mean, Knife? Grimsmo tackles the lowest hanging, highest yield fruit during his "days off in the shop"! A few episodes ago, Grimsmo knew the one thing he could do to increase production right away and he nailed it! Now, there's something nice--uh, Norse, that can run lights out on the Mori! RUN FROM HERE - Running Code from A Certain Point SMW is focusing heavily on developing reliable processes when it comes to posting code. While they used to run from the "Run From Here" feature, things have changed....        

Grimsmo has made some glorious progress on the kern. They have finalized an auto grinding routine for Rask blades. While Saunders' and their team have been toying with the idea of buying a Horizontal machining center.   Saunders' also has some awesome upgrades he is adding to Proven Cut. References: Surebonder.com

RASK PROGRESS, THREADMILLING, WORKHOLDING FIXTURES, 5-AXIS ROTARY TOOLPATHS, DIAMOND BURNISHING, GRINDING, SURFACE FINISHES, PROBING, & TOOL BREAKAGE DETECTION. KERN IT UP. Grimsmo machines his own ER 16 collet for the KERN! Wait until you hear about how he made this monolithic-integral ER. All this talk about holding parts on center brings back a good ol' Memory with Marv. Saunders recounts an accuracy test for cylindricity on the KERN--Swarf VS. Polar Interpolation in Garmisch- Partenkirchen. Threadmilling. Single Point or Proper Threadmills? Tool Standardization? The guys dive into threadmilling and tooling up machines; including single point versus proper threadmills, tool deflection, and whether or not to buy or DIY Collets. Regardless, the process needs to be reliable AND no matter how magical the brand of machine, it's still subject to the laws of physics. Click here for the Ultimate Guide to Threadmilling on NYCCNC (video and threadmilling calculator). HEAR ME OUT: The Synergistic Effect of CNC Theory. Saunders asks an interesting question, "Could the collets be made on the Nak?" At first it seems like an impossibility but with an open mind, new ways of thinking can lead to solutions you never could have imagined. Cogsdill Diamond Burnishing Tool on the Tornos: YAY or NAY? Grimsmo shares an update on the SAGA pen clips. Inconceivable---really! Saunders teases Grimsmo with the mind blowing video that's in the works. This Covid-friendly collaborative video about MetalQuest's INDEX MS40-8 will be about the harmony between machine capabilities and maximizing workflows. It's hard to imagine the back-work, which is all the more reason it MUST BE SHOWN! Get ready to reduce cycle time, increase output, balance cycle time between spindles, and more! Covid and Manufacturing: BIG GIANTS FALL HARDER. No one wants to speak too soon but there's been a sigh of relief that smaller manufacturing businesses haven't felt the same pain as the larger, often over-leveraged, companies. Seeing a "company consolidation" flyer in the mail for an aerospace company feels....weird. BUYER'S REMORSE? Does Grimsmo regret the large financial risk he took with the KERN given how 2020 has panned out thus far? TOTALLY REDEEMED AFTER BEING REAMED. A few episodes ago, Saunders called Grimsmo out for committing two cardinal sins of grinding. In order to make progress on the Rask, he decided to forego dressing and balancing the wheel before grinding the knife blade. Maybe Grimsmo's method of madness was intentional all along or maybe it was pure luck that resulted in the perfect recipe. EITHER WAY, IT'S FANTASTIC! Surface Finish Factors You hear about tool deflection, speeds & feeds, material type, and machine kinematics but what about presenting an even chipload/tool pressure to the cutting tool? Devon Dupuis from Autodesk and Saunders are collaborating on an OUT OF THIS WORLD part that relies on getting that chef's kiss finish. Random Ceratizit Clickbait Sometimes the algorithm provides.... Check out this video showing a new facemill with a vacuum/suction feature. ERP: Permanent Product and Material Location A big part of implementing ERP is deciding where things will be stored. It might sound easy to have a permanent location for parts and material but Amazon outright rejects that logic. The key is to make sure the item can be located anywhere at anytime.  The Johns wrap up this 190th episode with probing, tool break detection, and what's on tap for the day!

The year 2020 has not been exactly how we have imagined it. But it is in full swing for both Saunders' and Grimsmo, especially in the ERP department. Saunders' is cooking with LEX and Grimsmo is full GERP ahead.   Both John's and their teams have worked hard to make it happen this year. It is a great teaching lesson for anyone to make the best of what you have. Focus on the things you actually have control over and take a step back.   Grimsmo on the other hand is not happy with their Qualichen 450 and will be switching back to 251 for the time being. Also grinding rask blades on the Kern has been amazing! Saunders also touches on adding Shapeoko fixture plates to his lineup.   NYCCNC has a great article on advice for buying a machine tool HERE:

This podcast is GOOD VENTING and BAD VENTING all things manufacturing and entrepreneurship. Blade to the Grindstone After taking Saunders's advice (perhaps a bit too literally) Grimsmo takes a Zedaro Miltera Endmill to a knife blade and ends up with an incredible surface finish but the grinding wheel was another story... Throughout the talk of grit, mesh, and desired results, Grimsmo casually drops a bombshell---and Saunders calls him out immediately. PSA CHAMFER OR CORNER ROUND YOUR DANG PARTS A prospective hire for SMW finds it surprising to see how much deburring is done inside the machine! The guys highlight the benefits of chamfers and creative ways they've used different types of endmills to get that beloved edge break. Plus, Saunders shares his process for the SMW Diamond Dowel Pins, which come off the lathe a fully finished product. BUT, BUT....I WANTED IT TO BE COOL! Grimsmo laments the fact that he's using something a lot more simple than a Swarf toolpath but he knows the more simple, less exciting one still gets the job done.  FRICKIN' FREIGHT Without rhyme or reason, a national freight company adds limited access fees or lift gate fees that really aren't sustainable for SMW long term. Obviously, it's a problem that will need solving but how much action does it require? Saunders decided to take action based on an interesting strategy. THE BIG GOOD VENT Saunders shares his thoughts on things he's learned about hiring people and buying machines. HACK IN FUSION Selecting multiple chains of a sketch or contour can be a hassle, especially if you want to use that same geometry for multiple operations. VIDEO COMING SOON! Grimsmo's been learning better workflows, component structures, how to organize and lay out sketches all while keeping in mind future Grimsmo Knives employees. Fixturing & Tooling Standardization Grimsmo gives an update on the Norseman and while they're still able to make 6 knives daily, he's thinking about redesigning the fixture. The 2 long dovetail clamps on at each end causes the fixture to bow. The Johns discuss possible solutions and luckily, this is what SMW is all about! Standardizing tooling doesn't sound exciting but once you've implemented it, it's like seeing something you can't unsee! MINDS THEY ARE A CHANGIN'--and that's a good thing! RoboDrill replacement was going to be a Haas DT-2 but another consideration is MUCH more important to SMW than the fast rigid tapping.        

Overcoming obstacles is the foundation of life. But also one of the most important parts of running any type of business is being able to see an obstacle as a challenge and not a failure. This week on the business of machining podcast the John's talk all about making progress and continuing on moving forward. This includes getting the old machines running again and constantly finding new and improved ways on how to run the business and also create things!

MANUFACTURING ENTREPRENEURS--THIS IS FOR YOU! This podcast has 186 episodes about the experience of two entrepreneurs improving their skills in their trade and learning how to create successful businesses. "The day I stop learning is the day I fall asleep and never wake up." - Grimsmo DELUSION & HONESTY Entrepreneurship is a constant battle between delusion and self honesty. Justifying decisions is easy. Playing Devil's advocate is not. Knowing when to ride the wave of delusion and when to snap out of it? Now, that takes real skill.  Looking For A Few Good Employees... Both Saunders and Grimsmo are ready to bulk up their respective teams again! Grimsmo Knives Careers Saunders Machine Works Careers Speaking of a few good employees, the latest addition to SMW is no longer a secret! @vince.fab is the new hobby machinist extrordinaire. Click Image Below For Full Post! Time to Buy more Pis. This is goin' down. Grimsmo's got a case of GERP mode and Pi addiction. At least it's not a case of the Mondays... Bar code scanning guns, charging stations, Raspberry Pi's, Linux, monitors, purchase orders, inventory, maintenance, making sure processes are anti-lazy, you name it, Grimsmo and Saunders discuss all things ERP and solutions to the new challenges they're facing. IT'S OKAY TO TAKE OFF THE BOOTS. Saunders shares a story about a chipped lathe insert, 23 bad parts, the bootstrapper mentality, and the struggle to challenge default thinking patterns. CLIFF HANGER... Grimsmo leaves us hanging with a story about the 1/8" drill. Now we're all dying to know....WHERE IS IT!?    Other Topics Tornos and Production Cogsdill Diamond Burnisher on the SAGA button SANDVIK QS Holder System Micro 100 on CNC Lathe New Machine To Replace RoboDrill Haas DT-2 VS. Haas DM-2 Robots and Payload Problems Jay Pierson's Robot Video 5th Axis Automation Update RASK progress on the KERN Grinding Wheels & Swarf Dan Pacific's Presentation on Using 3D Sketches to Drive Swarf Toolpaths

What age did you get into CNC machining? This week we talk about the value of learning machining at a young age and the impact it has on the future.  Grimsmo has gone full GERP, they have developed a wireless barcode scanner for their web base ERP system. Saunders talks all about reevaluating machine tool purchases and constantly improving. Both shops are expanding. Grimsmo is hiring some machinists and Saunders is potentially looking at another worker for their shop as well!

The guys have been at this CNC machining thing for over a decade now and the amount of development in both shops in the past few months is surprising! FACING If you thought this was about face mills and decking parts, you're wrong. This is the first time the Johns have been able to video chat (reliably) during podcast recording in over a year all thanks to a sweet 220MB internet connection. EUMACH ME SO HAPPY! Grimsmo gets into detail about the Eumachs, while one is warming up its spindle, the other has a funky VFD issue and is about to have its spindle removed in order to reach the "tool unclamp" sensor. That being said, they're closer than ever to becoming a productive part of Grimsmo Knives! Spoiled Rotten When you go from the helm of a KERN to watching an old 2002 Eumach ramping up, things look...slow. Saunders is also spoiled by the lightning fast spindle and intuitive Next Control of the DATRON Neo. Phase 3 - Implementing & Evaluating Processes With the entire SMW team working on Phase 3 of rebuilding the shop, all eyes are focused on making processes easier, faster, and mistake proof. That, in turn, means it's time evaluate current machine tools and decide if they fit into the plan. Right now, the DATRON Neo is too much machine for what SMW needs and the FANUC RoboDrill (with its lack of probing and through-spindle coolant) just doesn't fit the shop right now, so it's time to let go and get the right machines! 3D Printed Poka-Yoke Hardware Counter Boxes Based on Ryan Wenner's idea of counting trays, Saunders thought of a way to count mulitple pieces of hardware, minimize human error, and pour them into poly seal bags without spills. Lost Hardware 0; Saunders 1. Check out Seneca Woodworking YouTube Channel Here! Click Photo Below to View Post! NEW TEAM MEMBERS There's so much work to do and that means Grimsmo and Saunders need more hands on deck. Two interns; one from a local robotics team and the other from a machining program have massively increased the manpower since they began a few weeks ago. The third person, who shall remain a mystery for now will be zeroing in on the benchtop/hobby machines and pushing them to their limits! The goal is to add tons of new speeds and feeds data to ProvenCut!   KERN + Window Machining + Adding Additional Material To Serve As Workholding = YES. Grimsmo was able to window machine the fixture for the Rask lockbar inserts and it's just--beautiful! The guys discuss fixturing, probing, updating tool wear offsets, custom tombstones, capto holders, livetooling, and more! MariTool may not make HSK 40 holders BUT they do know exactly what to send with your order of toolholders. Something that goes really well with lathes.... BTW, MariTool, when all this Covid stuff gets better, would you be open for a visit? Asking for a friend! CAPTO Tooling: Is Through-Spindle Coolant A Good Idea? In theory, it sounds logical to buy Capto tools that have this functionality but there's a sticking point you may want to hear before taking the plunge! Speaking Of Coolant, That Hose Is Lookin' Real Nice! Angelo is overjoyed when "garden hose" sprayers are added to the machines. MORI? No garden hose? #UNSUBSCRIBE. Saunders and Grimsmo share their plans for a central coolant/water delivery system.

This weeks episode is about smart business decisions. Sometimes it is easy to get caught up in the race of buying new equipment. But its always a good idea to take a step back and make sure it is the right decision. Make sure you are the best tool in your shop and that the machines you purchase will be a good fit.    Saunders gives some great info on zero point fixturing and how to mange fixture offsets. While Grimsmo is on the edge of getting their Eumach machines running.

THE LOONS ARE HOOTIN' AWAY! Grimsmo paints a beautiful picture of his family vacation thus far. A couple of spy-thriller books, canoes, campfires, and marshmallows will take the place of machine hum for now. Just make sure to stay away from "Snake Island!" BREAK ME OFF A PIECE OF THAT...FOOTBALL CREAM? Does taking breaks decrease productivity? According to Forbes and many other studies, it has the opposite effect. Working for long stretches without breaks leads to exhaustion and burn out.  If that's you, it's time to Kit Kat! Parenting & Entrepreneurship Kids grow up in the blink of an eye and if you don't want to miss it, don't! Balancing time between being an entrepreneur and a parent can be tricky. Is it more about quality time rather than quantity? Elon Musk, what do you have to say about this? Admiration for childhood energy, imagination, and carefree attitude stems a tangential but relevant debate topic: Is it better to follow dreams and passions or find a line of work that produces income? The Depths Grimsmo declares an insightful statement about life and expectations. Are you the person who needs to be away from the computer and phone to recharge or are you the one who would rather not? However you relate, keep Grimsmo's point in mind. LEX & GERP 3 weeks have passed. LEX (the newest name for the custom-built ERP system thanks to Jonathan George) was born. Saunders shares the progress SMW has made in this short period of time. Bar codes, inventory, emergency inventory, job scheduling, purchase orders, and receiving are all necessary components of a high functioning manufacturing business. GERP, which stands for Grimsmo ERP may have started as a joke but this acronym has staying power! GERP's come a long way in the last few weeks in terms of development with a heavy emphasis on inventory and job scheduling. New Face and New 5th Axis Project By the time you read or hear this 182th podcast episode, a new intern will have started at SMW! Saunders details an upcoming project that coincides perfectly with phases 3 & 4 of rebuilding the shop. Lockwood AU Class on NYCCNC MetalQuest's INDEX MS40-8 If you haven't heard of MetalQuest, you can watch the tour here. If you're into reducing your machining time by 7/8ths, rigidity, thermal stability, and impeccable surface finishes, this is for you! Scott Harms, President of MetalQuest, and Saunders are working on a remote video collaboration to show this incredible machine and its capabilities.    

It is so easy to overlook the aspect of marketing your business. The fact of that matter is that if you can bring the consumer as close as you can to the business, than they have a special attachment. Look at what Saunders' & Grimsmo are both doing on YouTube as an example. They are breaking down that barrier and creating a consumer attachment like no other. That is valuable no matter what type of business you run. This episode is all about the strategies of marketing yourself and business.

IT'S JUST A PHASE. While Saunders and his team are busy implementing external phases of re-structuring SMW, Grimsmo's recognizing internal phases of intense creativity that eventually give way to productivity. Grimsmo and Saunders discuss their respective phases in comparison to shops that are further along in development. Visit These Pivotal Shops Via Video Tour: S&H Tour Grimsmo Knives Miltera Tour SMW Miltera Tour MetalQuest Tour Do the hustle! (thoughtfully) While the word "hustle" sounds like hell on wheels, Mike from Miltera has a different type. He puts ample consideration into resource allocation--and it's not just about material, tools, or machines. Totally Unexpected Benefits of ERP You might think ERP is a numbers and organization game but Saunders sees something much bigger and abstract happening to the SMW team. Grimsmo's EUMACHS---D.O.A.? The Heidenhain control tech has come! When he opened the panel, it was WAY more than Deja Vu. Grimsmo talks plans for the twins and a plan if the plan doesn't go to plan. Next, maintenance techs are scheduled to perform the 100-point inspection. A Touchy Subject Saunders highlights a major drawback for hobby-grade benchtop machines like the SmartCarb, Pocket NC, and Tormach xsTech. He proposes a great way to stop touching tools off constantly. Rasking for a Friend Rasks are progressing slowly but they're still progressing. After feeling some burnout from the self-imposed July 1 deadline, Grimsmo's ready to outsource fixture components! SOURCING MATERIAL #REJECT During the phase 1 purge, Saunders finds a special blank that reminds him about how he used to source material back in the New York suburb days. Grimsmo discloses a sourcing material story you won't believe. Having up front, explicit delivery, care, and spec instructions are of utmost importance. Accepting material that doesn't meet your standards is hurting your business! How to Source Material SMW Pallet Jack FAIL While googling and watching videos to find solutions is wonderful and can work, other times, it's about physically trying it out. GK's Getting SHIFTY in here. One of Grimsmo's employees has move on--to another department. Find out who and why on this episode of Business of Machining!

This podcast has always shown both sides of the business of machining. This week is no different. Saunders' & Grimsmo are both building out sweet central coolant systems. Saunders' is building out A.L.E.X which is their in house ERP system. Saunder's may have had a little bump with his swiss lathe, very veeeerrrrry slowly but everything is all good!

TOPICS: Shop Operations Shop Organization Quality Control & AQL (Acceptable Quantity Limit) ALEX ERP Rask Progress Zero-Point Fixturing  Machine Probing (Eumachs, Fanuc Robodrill, DATRON Neo) Refining Shop Operations & Organization No longer is the conversation about product and process respectively. The Johns are now at a point where both are inextricably linked. Saunders talks shop revamp, QC, SMW custom ERP (ALEX), and DOITS (Days Off In The Shop). It's not enough to just make parts. Having refined and dialed in processes that are simple and effective are key to long-term success. Also, SCREW GOALS. Go for bite-size, actionable steps instead! Saunders outlines 3 phases full of small actionable tasks that will benefit the business and products. Both of these hosts have discussed lots of ideas and theories, but something's changed. The podcast may be all talk but outside of this hour confine, there's less talk, more doing. Boiling Point Both hosts find themselves boiling for different reasons. One has to do with QC and another has to do with A/C.  Saunders provides the best analogy for part quality during production runs: the frog in boiling water. With a shout out to Jake Yates from Yates Precision, Saunders is now combining AQL (Acceptable Quantity Limit) and an acrylic stroke of genius from Alex (the person, not the ERP system). In these sweltering temperatures, Monday can't come soon enough for the GK team! Deadlines Come and Go Grimsmo may not have made the July 1st deadline for having a completed Rask but the gains made weren't in vain. The deadline simulated an external driving force to keep him focused and driven. He delights in his newfound comfort with running the KERN. Not only are the pallet changers something that make him smile, he's also demanding that zero-point fixturing be used on EVERY machine. Cut Bait? Eumachs sat in storage for 6 months and have been in the shop for another 6 months. Grimsmo knows it's time to get service techs to inspect and repair. If push comes to shove, he may end up having to cut his losses and move forward but he remains hopeful that these will soon be dedicated foam cutting machines. NOTHING COMPARES TO U... This isn't about getting into someone's personal business....or is it? Eumachs lack of probing summons Saunders' experience with the Fanuc Robodrill, which has neither a spindle or tool probe (video coming soon). The workflow incorporates a Speroni Tool Presetter and Haimer, which works well but nothing---and I mean nothing compares to DATRON's VacuCard and camera-assisted probing. NOTHING. The Future of Hand Coding Saunders and Grimsmo ponder about the future of manufacturing. With the advents between CAM and high speed machining, it's difficult to envision a world where hand coding remains ubiquitous. Grimsmo Holmes GK is perusing and investigating processes to determine the lowest hanging, high yield fruit to increase production and he's sitting on a smoking gun solution that he can do immediately!  

Being in a position of leadership is a tough thing to learn. John & John go in depth about not only leading people in the proper direction but to also be a good leader to yourself. Grimsmo has been holding a super tight timeline to get Rask's back online while Saunders talks "Nuking" the shop. The boys mention an article here about "The soul of a new machine" By Tracey Kidder.

QUICK MATHS The Johns have been Business of Machining it for 4.38 years (3.38 years recorded to be exact). ROI Envy Sometimes you get a machine, crank out parts, and make money right away. Sometimes you have to invest time to develop reliable processes and workflows. Grimsmo reminds himself that the KERN is not a job shop machine. THAT HAS TO BE A KERN FILTER! Click Image Below for Full Post   The question is, "how do you cheat the KERN and push it beyond those limitations?" Although the machine is incredibly accurate, Grimsmo still has to chase tolerances. To him, that's proof it's not just about the brand of the machine, it's about tooling, the machining strategy, and various factors that come into play when making parts. Finding out those limitations is key to getting the most out of the machine tool. BITE-SIZE KERN? When Saunders asked Marv if the Datron could outpace a KERN, the answer was revealed in this hilarious Instagram post. However, to Saunders, in terms of footprint, rigidity, and usability, the DATRON is pretty much a bite-size KERN. Full Grimsmo Evolution Grimsmo shares his story about trying to make a perfect carbide detent press with a PCD endmill. Sometimes entrepreneurs must be willing to bail on an idea or process that isn't working despite sunk time or costs. Full Grimsmo is starting to expand its meaning to more than just being in love with an idea. Leadership Strategy and Tactics TOOLHOLDERS  The Johns discuss REGO-FIX, shink fit, and hydraulic tool holders. Saunders adds that moving away from the bootstrap mentality is tough but it is necessary in some cases. If you buy the beat-down, cheaper version of what you need, that may create a negative perception of the process or how the equipment should be cared for--and that could cost more than buying the new item! TruePATH + CAMplete  Grimsmo shares a "pucker moment" on the KERN. Saunders expresses his burning desire to have machine tool parameters set in CAM to avoid having to manually change them. While talking about TruePATH and CAMplete, the one thing they caution is to make sure you don't get used to ignoring the warnings! JOHN: Cycle Start! ST-20Y: "I'm sorry, John. I'm afraid I can't do that." Saunders has a HAL 9000 moment where the lathe REFUSES to make a part! Let's just say it has to do with a spindle thermometer and a specific IF, THEN loop. Scrapping Parts for Warm Ups - No Big Deal, Right? As an entrepreneur, your attitude can push the business to unimaginable heights or it can blow up in your face. A seemingly innocuous approach to warming up a machine tool could end up translating to a major case of apathy and huge costs in wasted material for Grimsmo. TORNOS - BARS. BEATS. BATTLESTAR GALACTICA. What do you do when the machine's been making great parts all day long? You stay at the shop until 4am and feed it! Fraser confirms that the Tornos didn't stop running from Friday morning until Saturday afternoon. URBAN LEGEND Saunders shares an urban legend about a machine at IBM 30-40 years ago that, once commissioned, NEVER turned off the spindle for the entire duration of the machine tool's life. IF ANYONE HAS HEARD OF THIS, E-Mail [email protected]        

"Making parts and growing a business are very similar, just on different time frames." This week is all about learning the sometimes harsh reality of running a business like this. Admitting to yourself that a mistake has been made and what you can do as a person and business owner to correct that. The boys dive into Fusion 360 and all about colletizer.com Here are the links for this weeks reference material: https://www.colletizer.com Leadership book: https://amzn.to/30RZ9bG https://chiprag.com/

CNC Manufacturing, Rigging Haas VF6ss Machines, Rasks, and a HARD Question You May Have Never Thought To Ask Yourself As An Entrepreneur! "There are no PRIORITIES, only one PRIORITY." During this weekly conversation about manufacturing, business, life balance, obstacles, solutions, and super technical, nerdy machining stuff, a lot is going on. The SMW shop just got a little heavier. 45,000lbs to be exact. On Monday, twin Haas VF6ss machines arrived. Saunders shares his initial impression, what it was like for him and his team to rig the machines themselves, and the next steps in the process. Proof that Everything is a Noodle Since the machines arrived, that also meant the VM3 (SMW's first VMC) had to move. Now, the Z-axis automatic coolant switch needs some attention. They were able to get the machine leveled in thanks to two great videos: Haas video & AT-man Unlimited. The ONE Thing Grimsmo's been programming on the KERN but while trying to run a part yesterday, it didn't cooperate. Today, he's digging in to figure out why. While thinking of the barrage of parts that eventually need to be made on the KERN, it's easy to get flustered and overwhelmed; however, Grimsmo has determined the SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT thing he can do for Grimsmo Knives right now---and yer gonna love it. The ONE Thing by Gary Keller Living By The Modified Nike Slogan: Just Do It...NOW? Saunders admits he's been a lot harder on himself lately when it comes to completing tasks from the infamous to-do list. For him, the list allows too much time for procrastination or some other negative emotional reaction. So, he sees it and does it immediately. The question is, is this sustainable and scalable? WHO ARE YOU? Some entrepreneurs never consider when starting a business, they should put themselves as the head of R&D and hire in a boss that handles the day-to-day operations & management of the company. Pocket NC did just that! Bring Back The Million Dollar Question Grimsmo's surprising answer to the limitless question, "What would you do if someone gave your company a million dollars?" SYSTEMS & PROCESSES MetalQuest left a lasting impression on Saunders. Behind the robots and machines is software and processes that culminate into one high functioning organizational system. On the same note, ALEX, the SMW custom inventory tracking, purchasing, & maintenance schedule software is evolving! Click Image to Watch MetalQuest Tour

A very important message this week by Dale Carnegie on "How To Win Friends & Influence People". Saunders is also spending some valuable time getting ready for his two new VF6 machines. The boys talk about to do lists and being able to follow through and dealing with stress this week which is very important in not only in business but in life in general. They also dive into sales techniques and being in a leadership role. Grimsmo has been diving head first into learning tabbing on 5 axis parts.

"You're in the business of being in the business of a business!" TOPICS: Leadership & Internalizing Advice Self-Reflection & The Last Dance  Grimsmo's Delegating & the Tornos Lean Manufacturing  ERP systems Credit reference tips Leadership & Advice Making the plans, the decisions, and having to steer the ship without a detailed map has its own set of unique struggles. The Johns mull over the abstract concepts of feedback, advice, and how timing and experiences affect their ability to receive and process it. Conviction behind the advice turns out to be a key concept. A Flowery Moment of Truth Fresh as a peach on the couch watching The Last Dance (a documentary about Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls), Saunders finds himself doubting Michael's empty gas tank. While digging up a rose bush, Saunders gets hit with some serious self-awareness. Click here for NYC CNC's Movie Recommendation List. Hardcore Machining Stuff...Well, Sort Of. The Johns usually get into nitty gritty machining detail but today, they find themselves inevitably back on the subject of business. The deeper they get, these topics seem less and less mutually exclusive! Delegating, Teaching, & Administering Responsibility Last week, Skye took the reigns of the Tornos; Grimsmo's definitive proof that he's growing as the leader of Grimsmo Knives. While he admits that handing responsibility over is difficult, he's very happy and excited about what this means for the future. Not to mention, Skye is crushing it! Click Image To See Full Post Lean Manufacturing Has Nuance (just like everything else) After a night of lights out machining, Grimsmo arrives to find an oil spill and that brings forth discourse about chip conveyors and possible solutions. Lean manufacturing can be tricky to pinpoint. Being proactive about potential problems is certainly a part of it but going overboard is easy. The old adage, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it," certainly applies here. Even more, the solutions MUST be simple, scalable, and sustainable. In other words, "the juice must be worth the squeeze." The Scope of Inventory Tracking Part of entrepreneurship is defining the scope of problems your business can handle versus the problems it should handle. Conflicted about investing time to develop custom inventory and PO tracking software, Saunders reaches out to the lean master, Jay Pierson, and gets a surprising response. Kanban cards, bar codes, and simple PO generation are tossed around this theoretical ERP skull session. Fusion 360 & Dr. Phil Experience (the awesome machinist, not talk-show host) Stay tuned for in-depth adaptive CAM troubleshooting videos from NYC CNC. Speaking of Fusion 360, how the heck does Dr. Phil do that!? Prompted by an IG story with "automate simple tasks" plastered on it, Saunders and Grimsmo can't help but marvel at Dr. Phil's ability to rapid prototype & machine complicated parts. Grimsmo's planning a YouTube video where they sift through his Fusion file--stay tuned! In the meantime, watch this incredible, free, Autodesk University Course by Dr. Phil on 5-Axis rapid prototyping. Click Image Below For Dr. Phil's Awesome AU Course Touch Points of Business - Interactions ARE Messages Every interaction a client has with a business is considered a touch point. They can be anything from calling customer service to how easy it is to order products. For instance, at the mention of ordering mater

John & John slowly start getting back to "normal". Grimsmo knives are starting to get back to full operations again after a 7 week shut down. The boys take this time to reflect about organizing and managing their time. Saunders' also dabbles in "S tools" for organizing tools. Here are all the instagram links as mentioned this episode! Laurens Ken @ zodiaceng Amish  Rob Lockwood Phil Saunders Machine Works John Grimsmo

Business of Machining: It may be simple and direct, but it's not forced or uncomfortable. BoM also happens to be a "subtle acronym" for Bill of Materials. TOPICS:  Naming businesses and products Asking For Advice: The Student Mindset  Processes - Scalability & Sustainability Datron NEO - Sneeze Guards & ProvenCut Parting Off: CNC Lathes SAGA ON KERN? Grimsmo and Saunders discuss what it's like to name products and companies. The next time you hear Bashing Strawberries, you'll know exactly what they mean. Discord Group Chat Provokes Good Conversation & Deeper Musings We're all hardwired to find information that validates our belief system and discount anything that contradicts it. However, when asking for advice, we must learn to put our biases aside. On that note, Saunders shares a fitting and humbling book excerpt about maintaining a student mindset. How To Get Things Done Well - Sustainable & Scalable Are you the technician focused on specific day-to-day tasks, the slightly unhinged company visionary, or somewhere in between? Determining where you are along this spectrum can help you determine the next steps in your business. Datron NEO - How You Doin'? Saunders discusses what it's been like the past few months with a Datron NEO. Everything from the work envelope compared to machine footprint, spindle speed, and an intuitive control, Datron NEO gets two thumbs up from SMW. Hey Marv, if you're listening, can a Datron outpace a KERN? Should You Increase SFM Just Because? Grimsmo wants to leverage a higher SFM but there is never free lunch. PARTING IS SUCH SWEET SORROW... Saunders shoulda got a 5-C. Holding 1/4" thick mod vise washer between the main and subspindle for parting off doesn't leave any room. Having to take an additional finishing pass on the part isn't ideal. Although a 20 second pass seems like no big deal is it scalable and sustainable? NO. Speaking of Sustainable... Grimsmo kicks around the idea of making the one-and done SAGA part on the KERN instead of the NAK and other ways improve production. HELP! It's Too Simple for Technology! Saunders needs help from YOU! If you know what would work best to solve his camera + monitor woes, he's all ears.

John might have had a little hiccup on the Kern. A work piece flew out of the vise. Don't worry, everything is good! The Boys also had a great chat about managing tool inventory in a shop. With some great references and a video that can be found here. John & John also chat in length about 5 axis parts and the qwerks of Fusion 360!

CNC Lathes, Mills, Manufacturing & Small Business TOPICS CNC Lathe & Mill Trials and Errors Subspindle Stabilization Solutions 5-Axis Window Machining, Tabs, and Hot Glue A Different Workholding Solution You Might Not Have Tried Will the KERN make the Linda Wheel obsolete? Dovetail Workholding Instills Confidence Technician Time Shedding The Bootstrap Mindset  RAISING A BURR? DISH. Saunders aims to avoid a post-machining deburr process for the square, tapered mod vise washers. He discusses the results of chamfering with the Harvey double-sided, double-angle cutter, using the subspindle and a 3D printed mandrel to stabilize the washer during part off, and a new idea that involves a 1" square collet. Solutions Should Not Cause More Problems When trying to improve machining strategies and workflow processes, make sure you're considering reliability, scalability, and poka-yoke. If the solution is clunky and prone to error, don't settle! 5-Axis Window Machining, Tabs, and Hot Glue While touring Stewart-Haas Racing (video coming soon), the decal crew asked the V.P. of Operations, Tony Frazier, if their machine shop could fashion an aluminum decal squeegee and Saunders offered to help! He gears up to record voice over for the entire process. Although it's not a technique that lends itself to automation, Grimsmo still wants to have that trick in his back pocket! A Workholding Solution You Might Have Never Tried Saunders shares an awesome workholding technique when it comes to machining parts that are difficult to hold AND it can also provide reliable machining datum for Op 2. Technician Time Covid-19 lockdown might have some silver lining after all. Without distractions, Grimsmo finds himself getting very comfortable with the KERN in terms of probing, measuring, pallet changing, mounting vises to pallets, and making incredible progress on the rask knife tombstone fixture. Perhaps when the lockdown is lifted, there will be a new rask in the offering! LINDA WHEEL OR SWARF!? If you're a veteran of this podcast, you already know about the "Linda Wheel." The Linda Wheel Arrives in all the way back in Episode 12. The question is, will the KERN render the Linda Wheel obsolete? Dovetail Workholding FTW Remember that scary block of 4140? Grimsmo's now sold on dovetail workholding! Bootstrapper Mindset Holding You Back? When you're a bootstrapper by nature, the problem is you're using limits to plan while your business is growing! While this mindset does serve a great purpose, the trick is to know when to use it and when to abandon it.  

Things are going well for both Grimsmo & Saunders! Saunders relaunched their website and saw their highest sales week! While Grimsmo has been getting more comfortable on the kern! Saunders' brings up a quote from his friend, "Possession is 90% of ownership". The boys also talk about "When you're faced with a tough decision, always choose the option that gives the customer the most confidence." This is a vital aspect of running any business and they weigh in on their thoughts on it!

Buying, Running, and Building Successful Businesses Around CNC Machines. TOPICS: ST-20Y is back in business Tolerance Creep & Squeezing the Most Out Of Your Machine Tornos Lovejoy coupler slips during production GK Quarantine Vlogs - Second Nature Machining Tips and Tricks Finding Center Lines On A Y-Axis Lathe Fusion 360 NC Program Feature Simplifying Lathe Workflow - Lockwood's WCS & Container Method in Fusion 360 Dovetail Workholding KERN - Tooling in Groups & Fusion 360 Cloud Library Although the world is changing, one thing remains constant: the love of CNC machining! Saunders is ecstatic to be reunited with the ST-20Y AND he's taking notes on how to get the absolute best parts the machine can produce. Contrary to popular belief, you can't just buy a KERN, input the code, and have amazing parts appear. According to Grimsmo, the machine brand will only get you so far and the rest depends on tweaking and improving your process, even just that tiny bit more. While lifestyle creep is to be avoided if possible, tolerance creep is definitely something you need! Lovejoy Coupler Slips During Production The year-old Tornos has been opened up to be serviced by Elliot Matsuura's technician. The coupler that attaches the motor to the ball screw is specifically designed to slip so nothing is ruined in the event of a crash; however, since the servo motors contain the enocders themselves, the machine is not aware of a mechanical slip, meaning it'll keep making parts out of spec until you catch it. MAKE LATHES GREAT AGAIN Grimsmo and Saunders hash out details on finding the center line on Y-Axis lathes. Grimsmo knows the best way takes a little more work but it's perfect every time. Saunders has a do-while loop while he runs a certain number of parts. He shares how he wants to use a variable to streamline his post processor. Other ways to streamline and improve workflow come from Rob Lockwood. By implementing Lockwood's container method for programming parts and using a repeatable WCS, G55 stays put and the lengthy NC instructions on checking and setting offsets are a thing of the past! Click Here for a Video on Part Programming Using Lockwood's Method. KERN - Setting Up, Tooling, & Planning Grimsmo hasn't cut anything on special K for a while. Is he allowing fear to hold him back? With a large chunk of steel that could fall and damage the machine, he's not sure if he can trust dovetail workholding.  Grimsmo shares how he wants the tools and sister tools to be organized and how he's using the Fusion 360 cloud library. Up Your Confidence Bank Each time you keep a promise to yourself, your confidence account gets a little raise. Although Saunders crashed the lathe, he didn't let shell-shock stop him from moving forward. The only way Grimsmo will get that raise is if he gets off this call and pushes cycle start!

John & John are still adjusting to working or in some cases, not working during COVID-19. Grimsmo is slowly integrating back into work but with very strict safety measures. While Saunders' continues to make PPE for the front line workers. The boys talk all about the different government loans in both Canada & USA and how to apply for them. John Grimsmo has been taking it way back in the old days of YouTube making daily vlogs. Saunders' CRASHED HIS LATHE :(

Two Small Manufacturing Business Entrepreneurs Learning to Navigate Covid-19. With an uncertain time frame, Grimsmo and Saunders discuss the importance of looking ahead, monitoring your burn rate, and being ready to use available programs before the cushion runs out.  Grimsmo Knives made the decision to shut their shop in response to the non-essential business shut down order.  That doesn't mean things aren't still progressing! Not only has he reached out to the Canadian government to offer GK's shop and skill sets, he's got time to LEARN THAT KERN--all in the name of the Rask!  Last episode, SMW had shut down the shop in response to the non-essential business shut down order BUT within the last week, he's busted his butt to figure out a way to be part of the solution. DELVE reached out to have his shop manufacture face-shields, the Badger Shield to be exact. This well designed, open-source file gives SMW everything they need to make PPE the right way.  Click Here To Learn More About Operation #BadgerShield Saunders shares his crazy experience with trying to secure materials to make it happen. The whole team is on board to help as many healthcare workers as possible. If you have a machine shop, it's a good idea to see what you can provide in this great time of need. For Ohioans, go to https://repurposingproject.com/ to see how you can help. TO THE LATHE, JENNAYYYY.... Saunders asks Grimsmo about whether or not wear comp on a static lathe tool should be updated in Fusion CAM or at the control.  While discussing the workflow for holding tight tolerances on the lathe, thermal expansion and tool wear enter the conversation. 5-Axis, Where Have You Been!? All the recent lathe talk has been great and all but with Grimsmo about to get knee deep in the KERN, he needs some resources to learn Steep & Shallow in Fusion 360. Watch AutoDesk University 2019 Presentations of Laurens Wijnschenk, Rob Lockwood, and Phil Butterworth      

This weeks episode is a little different than our normal conversations. John & John talk all about the effects of COVID-19 in their personal life and business life. They take a quick detour to talk about higbee threads as well! Please everyone stay safe out there. Look after yourself and loved ones.

TOPICS: Thoughts on Covid-19 and small business The SAGA  Solutions for breaking tools during internal threading Why You Need a Neon Vest In Your Shop BREATHE. Yes, they talk about Coronavirus. Yes, they are washing their hands. What you won't find are hosts hoarding toilet paper or coming up with conspiracy theories. What you will find is hope and perseverance! If you want to know how you can help fight Covid-19, please visit https://www.nyccnc.com/covid/ EDC > Safe Queen During a hiking/shooting trip with a friend, Saunders notices a spectacularly crafted GK SAGA pen sticking out of his friend's shirt pocket. After spending some time outdoors, Saunders realizes he's lost his OWN SAGA...let's just say this pen has a SAGA of its own. Grimsmo shares how the clips are uniquely and perfectly tensioned. Internal Threading Problems Sub-spindle threading cycle = Butt Clench 100 Find out why Saunders uses masking tape on the lathe. Grimsmo switches to making knife thumb studs on the Tornos instead of the Nak. A very tiny threaded hole causes 5-6 tools worth of headache. He searches for the problem, only to kick himself later. Grimsmo explains GO, NO-GO Listen to the one and only Go, No-Go explanation that actually makes sense! SMW Fixture Plate Tops Now that all Pierson Workholding Mini Pallets are compatible with SMW Fixture plates, Saunders turns his attention to diamond dowel pins that require tight tolerances. When it comes to QC, keep it simple! IN THE STUDIO Fraser has fashioned a sweet sound-proof audio/visual room for GK videos and products! NEON VESTS What is it good for? Absolutely nothing---if it's not in use.

Have you ever wanted to listen to two grown men talk about a lathe like children in a candy store? Well this episode is for you. John Saunders goes in depth trying to make his first sub spindle lathe part. The boys also talk all about the mist collector situation at the Grimsmo shop and to not overlook the air quality. John Grimsmo also made a "production run" of 9 parts on the Kern!

TOPICS: 5-Axis Machining Generatively Designed Parts Tool life troubleshooting & solutions Steep & Shallow in Fusion 360 McMaster Coolant Filtration Solutions Relieved Shank Endmills Shrink Fit, Set Screw, & Pull-Stud Extenders   SMW & MACHINING A GENERATIVE DESIGN PART (Click Image to View Post) In January, NYC CNC made trucks for a Datron longboard with a combination of 3-axis and 5-axis machining.  However, they didn't stop there! Gavin Bath from CADPRO Systems in New Zealand took the brunt of the work for modeling a generatively designed truck and now it's Saunders' turn to machine it! Today, he'll hit cycle start on his first true simultaneous steep and shallow toolpath. He also shares an important lesson about work coordinate systems. No Rush on the Naks Grimsmo and his team settle into their new shop. Although the machines are up, the Naks still aren't making parts because of coolant line reconfiguration. Will they be forced to scramble or was it all part of the plan? TORX KILLING TOOLS ON TORNOS The 17-4 stainless pivot screws are proving to be a challenge on the Swiss. Grimsmo's using the same process he's used for 5-6 years but the endmills are dying out after 35-60 parts! Saunders and Grimsmo troubleshoot various factors that affect tool life and possible solutions. THE MENTAL TRAP - IS THIS YOU? When it comes to machining strategies, if you've ever found yourself saying, " But I want it to work like THIS," STOP RIGHT THERE! Saunders says, "Get the recipe working FIRST--even if you don't love it. THEN start tweaking it from there!" REACH! When it comes to 5-Axis milling ensuring that you're able to reach occluded features is key. Grimsmo and Saunders discuss relieved shank tools, tapered endmills, and shrink fit, set screw, and pull-stud extenders. Grimsmo + KERN = NEW Pocket Clip Supports Today, he's going to machine this part in 1 op but he's not quite sure which strategy to use for the curvy areas of the part. Saunders suggests either 3D Contour with shaft and holder detection OR Steep and Shallow. SAUNDERS CALLS OUT ChipBLASTER When reaching out for coolant filtration solutions, he got nothing but poor customer service and people reluctant to give straight answers. With that, he sets out to find other options. Grimsmo stands by his filter bag housing from McMaster. Click Here to See Part Number 5168K249 Adafruit Parallel While watching an interview with the CEO of Adafruit, one particular line strikes a chord with Saunders. It brings a new sense of clarity in terms of defining what SMW does.

Can you really optimize machining and happiness at the same time? This week John & John dive in to optimizing machining while staying happy and true to yourself. They also talk about hand editing lathe code and threading tips on the lathe. Saunders fuses ABS plastic together with acetone like a mad scientist and Grimsmo finally gets his swiss running after some issues.

THIS WEEK'S TOPICS:  Entrepreneurs Managing Business & Emotions Reliving KERN  Shop Tours | Onsrud, Hendrick Motorsports, and Stewart-Haas Racing CAMplete | Workflows & Optimize Function  Datron NEO & Wazer for ProvenCut Speeds & Feeds Testing A Message from Justin K. Courtney | Tulster It's been 13 years and counting! Grimsmo relives how his spur-of-the-moment trip to KERN resulted in something he never thought possible. Rear View VS Windshield Are we ever truly able to live in the present? Saunders discusses the past, present, and future as it relates to entrepreneurship. If you aren't familiar with the 1-Minute "Brazilian Fisherman" story, Read it here. Managing Business = Managing Emotions Saunders shares a thought and behavior pattern that gives him emotional freedom during stressful events or circumstances. Learning how to control and manage emotional responses is easier said than done. Shop Tours - FANUC, ROMER ARMS EVERYWHERE, AND SURFACE PLATES LARGER THAN CARS? Saunders visits Onsrud, Hendrick Motorsports, and Stewart-Haas Racing in Charlotte, North Carolina and shares his experience at each shop, the things that blew him away, and a story about how he ended up machining an aluminum decal squeegee tool. CAMplete Training, Workflows, & Capabilities Grimsmo returns from a day of training with a good understanding of how to integrate Fusion 360 and CAMplete into a viable workflow for Grimsmo Knives.  At this point in time, SMW uses the software to simulate, verify, and check for possible collisions but there's a feature that sounds like a game changer: OPTIMIZE FUNCTION. DATRON NEO & WAZER ARRIVE AT SMW ProvenCut will be testing speeds and feeds on these machines and adding them to the ever-growing video database! Click Image to Visit ProvenCut.com CHIP RAG - WHERE ARE YOU?  Unfortunately for some, the newsletter is being sent directly to the spam folder. If you've signed up but haven't received the February 7th issue, check your spam folder. If you haven't already, click here to sign up! Last but not least, a message from Jusin K. Courtney with TULSTER. Visit Tulster.com Follow him on IG @tulster @justinkcourtney

John & John go into some very deep discussion this week all about stress, happiness and finding continued motivation. How do you talk about past events and experience without sounding like you are whining? Finding the line and learning how to communicate in the early stages of growing a business. John Saunders visits YG1 and Onsrud endmill grinding factory! John Grimsmo goes all in on Kern training and it is blowing his mind!