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From the September/October, 2010 Issue
Back in the April/May 2009 issue of Machinist’s Workshop, I reviewed a great beginner’s book called Machine Shop Essentials. I am now pleased to have received a copy of its sequel, Machine Shop Know-How – The Tips & Techniques of Master Machinists. With this, author Frank Marlow is continuing to guide his new students from the first book into the next phase of their development. Now that they have learned…well, the essentials…from the first book, they are now ready to take the next step and learn such topics as setting up their own shop, filing and grinding, and second level operations on machine tools such as lathes, mills, and band saws.
The book begins exactly as it should, with Chapter 1 titled “Setting Up Shop.” This chapter includes great tips for setting up your own machine shop, including how to build a proper machinist’s workbench and material storage. Mr. Marlow also explains which basic tools – such as measuring tools and layout tools – are needed in every machine shop and why.
Chapter 2 shifts the focus to different types of materials and their properties. I consider this a must-read, as the machinist will learn which types of metal are most appropriate for their project. Marlow also covers rust prevention and hardness testing. Chapters 3, 4, and 5 focus primarily on procedures. Chapter 3 is Tapers, Dowel Pins, Fasteners and Key Concepts, Chapter 4 is Filing & Grinding, and Chapter 5 is Drilling, Reaming, & Tapping.
Chapters 6 (Bandsaws), 7 (Lathes), and 8 (Milling Machines) cover specific procedures on specific machines. The lathe chapter is very in-depth and covers everything from design to safety. One of the subsections of that chapter is Lathe Projects. Here, Marlow includes some good projects for mastering the use of your lathe, such as a knock-out bar, a faceplate, and a toolholder shelf.
Another area I found fascinating was the book’s final chapter, Machine Shop Problem Solving. Marlow’s goal with this chapter was “demonstrating several dozen shop techniques, repair methods, and shop-made tools for solving specific problems…” I think he ccomplishes that by demonstrating several techniques for emergency shop repair and tools to accomplish it, such as making your own vise grip clamps.
Machine Shop Know-How – Tips & Techniques of Master Machinists is a worthy sequel to Machine Shop Essentials – Questions & Answers. For those who enjoyed the first book, you should definitely get a copy of the second. Even if you’re no longer a beginning machinist, you’ll learn something here! For more information or to order, contact Metal Arts Press at (714) 841-5561 or at www.metalartspress.com.
By Craig Foster, Managing Editor, The Village Press
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