Product Description
Tabletop Machining gives the reader not just the "hows" but also the "whys" of machining practices using the lathe and milling machine for metalworking. Included are down-to-earth descriptions as well as detailed photos and drawings. In addition, a large selection of project photos illustrates the amazing work that has been produced by craftsmen using small but capable miniature machine tools. Though the tools used in the examples highlight the small end of the size scale in machining, the theories and practices can be applied to metal working on machines of any size.

Whether you're a newly graduated engineer or a beginning machinist, this book will help you gather some real, practical knowledge of how machines and machinists actually go about working with metal. This isn't theory, but rather it details "real world" practices and gives a good insight into the challenges faced by machinists. Too often, good craftsmen are stopped from venturing forth because the only information available shows just the technically perfect way to do things rather than the simple, practical methods everyone really uses. For those wishing to design and build their first metal parts, it is a perfect starting point, as it highlights the fun that comes from making small projects of precision and beauty.

Safety Rules 1
Foreword 3
Introduction 5
A gallery of machining project photos 10
SECTION 1--GENERAL MACHINING
Machinery's Handbook 27
Do you need a lathe, a mill or both 29
Materials for metalworking 39
Processes for metalworking Using hand tools and abrasives 57
Cutting tools for metalworking Measuring and measurement tools 85
Coolants and cutting oils 99
General machining terms 101
Machine tool lubrication and maintenance 107

SECTION 2--LATHE OPERATIONS Lathe workholding 115
Lathe operating instructions 121
Tailstock tools and operations 141
Riser blocks 145
Supporting long or thin work 149
Getting started in thread cutting 157
Knurled finishes 167
Watchmaking and clockmaking tools 171
Milling operations on a lathe 177

SECTION 3--MILLING OPERATIONS
Holding parts for milling 183
Mill operating instructions 191
Squaring up a block 205
The rotary table and indexing attachment 209
Gears and Geartrains Accessories for milling 219

SECTION 4--OTHER MACHINING TOPICS
Setting up a small workshop 247
Lathe and mill alignment and adjustments 251
Enginering drawings 259
Frequently asked questions 265
Making a business out of a hobby ...Joe Martin's and Sherline's story 273

SECTION 5--PROJECTS AND RESOURCES
Plans and projects you can build 307
Ordering plans for the ``Little Angel'' hit n miss engine...an advanced machining project 321
Contests and awards for tabletop machinists Exploded views and part number listing 323
A simple RPM gage for your lathe or mill 333
Index 335
Conversion factors 338