This a recycled piece from a while back.
Keep your "TOOLS" clean.
Eons ago when I began in the Machine trades it was repeated over, and over again that one of the most important aspects of our work was CLENLINESS.
I heard it so many times that it began to get annoying. Very soon after, I realized the important role of cleanliness.
Many of the best lessons learned come from examples. A small particle of debris on the taper of an R8 collett of one thousandth of an inch (.001") can create Total Indicated Run out (TIR) of a tool of .002" or more Depending on the length of the tool.
That is only one of many examples. All vises, fixtures, measuring tools must be kept clean. I now go as far to say laboratory clean.
Dust, often created from grinding and sanding operations needs to be separate from other processes and operations. Best in a space that is ultimately separate.
Dust from grinding not only can damage machine tools but also is a health and safety concern. Electronics, such as computers, CNC controls, and machine electrical boxes will also collect grinding dust. And this grinding dust can carry conductive particles. These conductive particles will cause harm to electrical components. Aside from the conductive particles, grinding dust on electronic equipment will clog cooling fans, coating circuit boards thus preventing proper cooling and can result in performance issues and costly downtime and repairs.
Tool holder tapers and spindle tapers NEED to be clean. It is often said that the spindle taper is the "heart" of a machine. Spindle life, tool performance and accuracy can all be preserved by keeping tapers clean. even by observing the contact marks on a tool holder taper, you can often judge the condition of a spindle taper.
Rust, also falls into this category. After use, all tools, gauge pins, thread gauges, tool holders, and often the parts that you are working on need to be cleaned and apply a coating of rust preventive.
The use of compressed air needs to be used sparingly. The power of compressed air should not be taken lightly. Compressed air can force particles through way covers, through seals, and into places that will be detrimental to machine tools
Clean, CLEAN! A funny little story in my youth. I apprenticed under and experienced tool maker whom we affectionately called "Uncle Fuddly".
Uncle Fuddly, who actually thought the name was quite hilarious! Was a great teacher. What I like to call a "Coyote" Teacher. Uncle Fuddly would let you make minor mistakes, but under his watchful eye would not allow you to make any serious mistakes. He gave you a long leash, but would snap it back if you strayed too far. At first we thought Uncle Fuddly was just a very overly picky person. But it was obvious that this attention to detail, good habits, and observance made his quality of work stand out above the rest. Uncle Fuddly wanted everyone to learn and succeed. Thank you "unc"
One last little "BIG" tip. Be aware of tools that can or may have come into contact with water soluble coolant. Indicators and edge finders come to mind first. The water in the coolant will evaporate, and leave a sticky residue that will gum up delicate instruments. This applies to most any measuring tools.
Thank you for reading, I hope you find these tips helpful, drive slow and always have fun!
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