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, and the exciting future features of Toolpath. Plus, we banter about favorite machines, coding intricacies, and the welcoming nature of the machining community.

Check out Justin's IG @justinsgray

and Toolpath Labs @toolpathlabs or https://www.toolpath.com/

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Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

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 faced while integrating the new U500 machine, highlighting some unexpected setbacks and the incremental improvements over various Speedio generations. We also cover practical advice on anodizing prep, the importance of material stresses and proper fixturing, and the benefits of our new plastics annealing oven.

You can find Phil's AU class here:

https://www.autodesk.com/autodesk-university/class/Templates-Configurations-and-Containers-for-Agile-Prototype-Machining-in-Autodesk-Fusion-2024

Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting

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Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

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

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Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

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, discussing mental health, burnout, and the importance of work-life integration.

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Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

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 to the Toolpath team for hosting us, and the DSI team for outfitting the booth.

Check out:

Zap's IG @zap.consulting

Graham's IG @lightsout.mfg

Al's IG @al.whatmough

Jeff's IG @yetiman01

Austin's IG @armachineman

Jay's IG @pierson_workholding

Andrew's IG @henryholsters

John's IG @saundersmachineworks

James' IG @cncappsjames

Toolpath's IG @toolpathlabs

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Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

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 testing the U500 machine, highlighting its performance, work envelope, and controls. We also offer practical advice for maximizing efficiency and effectively preparing for IMTS. 

Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting

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Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

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 technologies, the potential of AI in machining, and valuable lessons from industry precedents. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at the development of their estimating product and a fun story about a dog bed in their shop!

Check out Justin's IG @justinsgray

and Toolpath Labs @toolpathlabs or https://www.toolpath.com/

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Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

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 deburring tips to managing shop rust and insights for IMTS attendees, this episode is packed with practical advice and industry anecdotes.

Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting

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Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

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 instructive machine maintenance anecdotes, and Jarrett’s quest for organization.

Check out Jarrett's IG @possumsolutions

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Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast