Multiple Machining

a method for manufacturing machine parts, based on the combination of such parts into groups that are chosen so that similar technological operations can be performed on all parts in the group, using the same, quickly adjusted tooling.

Even in short production runs, multiple machining makes possible the use of automatic equipment, high-efficiency tooling, and other advanced technology. The method drastically reduces the expense incurred in making special devices and significantly shortens the setup time for lathes. Multiple machining methods have been applied successfully not only in the machine tool industry but also in shoemaking and woodworking.

The first step in the development of a technological process for multiple machining is the design of a complex part, which may be either an actual part that is the most complex part in the particular group, ora hypothetical part designed to be the aggregate of the geometric elements of all parts in the group. The technological process is then designed for the complex part and is used with minor tooling adjustments for all other parts in the group.