Machine tools - Examples of machines

In and that all machines, with very few exceptions, tend towards a common archetype: the 5- or 6-axis machining center. Many will be – and some already are – multiprocess.

Machines for "shafts and casings" (we call the latter polyhedral parts) will use fixed and rotating tools, carry out heat treatments, mostly by laser, and finish treated surfaces, whether flat or of revolution, with a "hard tool" and will be capable of superfinishing, generally with an oscillating stone, but without excluding other processes, such as the abrasive belt. As already mentioned, the aim of these machines will be to manufacture complex parts in a very small number of grips: very often just one, sometimes two, rarely three.

Before turning to a few examples, we feel it essential to draw a few conclusions and constructive rules from the brief study carried out in and . They will shed light on the criticisms and proposals we are about to make.