(11-26-2015, 11:34 AM)Sunset Machine Wrote: That's the problem I had working those shops - too focused on the immediate, not the whole job. I failed at production; I'd rather do repairs. Carbide tooling just gets set aside, I don't even own a single insert.

Completely understand, but have to add that the carbide tooling can greatly decrease not only your set up time, but your machine time as well.  

Yes, there's an initial outlay of costs for tooling, but the returns will be pretty quick, and it only takes a couple tools to cover the majority of needs.  Use WNMG inserts and those same inserts can be used in turning and boring tooling, plus they have 6 edges.  Saves a ton of money on buying inserts by being able to turn and bore with them.

I think the only HSS tooling I have is drills, taps and a few corner rounding end mills.  Other than that, it's all carbide, and inserted tooling.

Repair work for me was a small part of my business in the beginning but then I phased it out.  It just wasn't my thing.

I however, love production work.

I find with production work, you work much easier..........as long as your process is focused on making the machine and tooling do all the work, you're good to go for the long haul.

As I always tell my son as he's standing there watching two or three machines pumping out parts..........


"See how easy this is?  The machines do all the work, and you get all the money!" 


Some 1st op 303 Stainless Steel Latches we make by the hundreds throughout the year.