Initial considerations

Start with an analysis of the operation:

• Turning, milling, drilling, boring/reaming or tapping?
• Operation type affects the tool holding choice.
• Quality (tolerance, surface finish)?
• Quantity (of cutting operations)?

​After analysing the cutting operation, it’s time to look at the component:

• Can the component be fixed securely?
• Single cut or mass production?
• Is there any need for two or more functions in one tool (to minimize the number of tool changes)?

​Finally, we take a look at the machine:

• Stability, power and torque requirements, especially for larger components?
• Machining centre, turning centre or multi-task machine?
• Type of machine spindle interface?
• Type of turret?
• Manual or automatic clamping units?
• Modular or solid tooling system?