Within Tolerance

Justin Gray from Toolpath Labs joins me this week on the podcast. We delve into Justin's week-long internship at Proteum Machining, touching on topics like the camaraderie in small shops, tool calibration, and optimizing CNC processes. Justin critiques our workflow and offers practical advice on improving shop efficiency and safety. Learn about his experiences with e-bikes, surprises in machining,...

Zap joins me this week live in the studio as we dive into our recent experiences and challenges in the machining world. Zap discusses his non-stop travel schedules, including trips to Maryland and California. We talk about fixturing challenges in different materials, the balance of setting proper boundaries, and our continuous journey in achieving optimal machining processes. I recount the hurdles...

Zap and I catch up post IMTS and talk about troubleshooting on-the-road machining issues, the challenge of constant travel, and Zap offers a behind-the-scenes look at teardown strategies post-trade show. Meanwhile, I talk about the sale of our S700 and preparing for the U500's arrival, experiments in annealing plastic, and dealing with customers. Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting ----------------...

This week I welcome back Juan March from Jax Precision to discuss the monumental changes in his shop over the last two years. We dive into the challenges of equipment reliability, the pursuit of AS9100 certification, and the implementation of the Infab ERP system tailored for high-mix, low-volume production. We also explore the intricacies of managing logistics and maintaining productivity during...

In this episode of Within Tolerance, I sit down with Jamie Underwood from Hadrian to talk about their exponential growth, changes in job roles, and how the company is handling challenges such as in-process inspection and automation. Jamie shares insights on leadership, training new employees, and how automation is changing the role of machinists. We also delve into the personal side of machining,...

IMTS 2024 is a wrap and I was lucky enough to be able to record every day while there! Join Zap and I as we catch up every morning and are joined by a crew of past and future guests from the show. Big thanks to Chris Zappettini, Graham Francis, Al Whatmough, Jeff Tiedeken, Austin Roche, Yuto Matsuura, Jay Pierson, Andrew Henry, John Saunders, and James Meyette for joining me! An equally big thanks...

Zap joins me this week to discuss his recent complex probing project in Ohio and his travels to Nevada. We delve into the technical intricacies of machining macros, troubleshooting probing issues, and tips for maintaining clean coolant. Zap shares his expertise on achieving tight tolerances, managing work and travel, and fostering team dynamics. Additionally, I recount my hands-on experience testi...

In this episode, I sit down with Justin Gray, CTO of Toolpath Labs, to discuss his fascinating journey from NASA to leading an AI-driven CAM automation startup. We delve into Toolpath Labs' mission to enhance manufacturing efficiency, the challenges of transitioning from traditional roles, and the complexities of coding machining strategies. Justin shares his experiences with automation techno...

In this episode, I catch up with Zap, discussing everything from hiring new team members to tackling complex machining projects. We dive into a unique e-bike project and explore advanced machining setups, Vero-S systems, and the importance of customer relationships. We also talk about dealing with YouTube machining trends, and the challenges of using both old and new equipment. From essential debu...

In this episode, I interview Jarrett Morgan of Possum Solutions about his unique journey from Steadicam operator to running a business creating custom cinema camera accessories. Jarrett shares his evolution, offering insights into the intricacies of running a machining business while having another job. We also discuss the influence of streaming services on the film/media industry, humorous and in...

In this episode, Chris and I delve into our latest projects and experiences from the past weeks, including Chris's extensive travels tackling various machining challenges across multiple states. We cover topics like material shortages, fusion design, and complex surfacing projects for knife handles. We also discuss the nuances of machine tool programming, organizing tool cribs, and having extr...

Ethan and I catch up after his week at Proteum as our first "intern"! We talk about projects he accomplished, things he learned, and ways Proteum can get better. We talk about the RIT Formula SAE team's recent victory and lessons gained over the years. Check out Ethan's IG @e.patane515 ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolera...

In this episode of Within Tolerance, Zap and I dive deep into our latest machining projects, touching on everything from material shortages to software complications. We investigate the real potential of AI in automating tasks in machining and weigh the hype against the reality. Additionally, we discuss managing diverse machinist personalities and provide insights on employee management and onboar...

This week I am joined by Justin Brouillette from PDXCNC to explore his journey from architecture school to running Portland CNC. We discuss the challenges in custom furniture making, delve into CNC router specifics, and highlight standout features. Justin shares his approach to product development and the role of 3D printing in industrial products. He also discusses his unique strategies for marke...

In this episode, Chris and I delve into our latest projects and experiences in the last couple weeks. Chris recounts a problematic project involving heat-treated 4140 steel in Delaware and the trials of Camplete for Mill Turns. I talk about updates on the shop's air system improvements and a potential new CMM purchase, emphasizing the ever-evolving nature of manufacturing technology. We also c...

I am incredibly excited to have Al Whatmough back this week to discuss his recent move over to Toolpath Labs as CEO! Al and I talk about making the decision to leave Autodesk, how to successfully enter a new team, improving machinist productivity, and more! Check out Al's IG @al.whatmough and Toolpath Labs @toolpathlabs or https://www.toolpath.com/ ----------------------------------------- Hel...

Chris joins me this week to talk shop, answer your questions and all from the new Proteum Podcast Studio! We share updates on work progress, shop layout enhancements, equipment acquisitions, and the cost-effectiveness of machining tools. We chat about best and worst customer experiences, dealing with stress, and more! Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting -----------------------------------------...

This week I'm joined by Nushrat Ahmed. Nush shares her journey into manufacturing, emphasizing continuous learning, finding her network, and perseverance. She discusses career progression, education in the industry, and addresses diversity challenges, especially for women. Nush also explores strategies for success, recommends podcasts, and reflects on personal growth through activities like cr...

Jason and Chris are back this week! Chris talks about working like a mad man to finish up a project, visiting me, and his current trip to LA. Jason shares his funding journey, new X2 products, and new machinery. We all chat about motivating people, effective planning, 3d printing and more! Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting and Jason's IG @jason_x2devgroup ---------------------------------...

Zach is back this week and we chat all about fixing Kerns, adding a swiss lathe to his shop, and all the changes his business has gone through since the last time on the show. Listen in to hear the incredible modifications and fixes Zach has done to his machines, and hear how this skill scored him a job. Check out Zach's IG @zachsmiami ----------------------------------------- Help support the...

This week I'm joined by Uriel and Kyle from Arda Cards! Any of my listeners who have been following along Uriel and Austere Manufacturing's journey will know of his application of lean principles to optimize his business. In this effort he uses Kanban cards, and this lead to him developing Arda Cards with Kyle. We chat about lean principles, ordering headaches, and how Arda has made Kanban...

Chris joins me this week to catch up on a whirlwind of a past couple weeks! Chris talks about success with lathe probing, and a change of coasts. I talk all things Hermle C250 and new shop. Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

In this episode of Within Tolerance, Graham Francis joins me to discuss Lights Out Mfg. Graham shares his journey from childhood fascination to mechanical engineer, detailing his experiences at King Machine, transitioning to sales, and partnering with Rapid Design Solutions. We delve into their automation solutions for machine shops, including integrating robots for machine tending and specializin...

This week I am joined by everyone's favorite Selway Sr. Apps Engineer, James Meyette alongside Chris Zappettini. James discusses his journey in manufacturing, from machinist to applications engineer, touching on experiences with companies like Cummins, Mori Seiki, and MasterCAM. He also dives into his role at Selway, sharing experiences in applications engineering, customer interactions, and r...

Chris talks about his whirlwind last couple weeks wrapping up his shop move and his success with gear hobbing. I share the new machine we bought, talk about my new experience at Hermle training, and thoughts on Heidenhain. Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast