Within Tolerance

Denis Basaric of KafaTek shares his fascinating transition from software engineer to manufacturer of premium espresso grinders. We discuss his pursuit of perfection - from designing coffee burrs with 5-micron adjustability to implementing robotic automation and sophisticated QC processes. Denis also explains the technical differences between burr designs, his philosophy of building products meant to last generations, and the challenges of maintaining aerospace-level precision in a small shop environment. 

Check out Denis's IG @kafatek

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#instamachinist #withintolerancepodcast #kafatek

From Finance to Fixture plates - John Saunders reveals the winding path that led to creating NYC CNC and Saunders Machine Works. We discuss his transition from investment banking to manufacturing, building an audience through YouTube, and the hard-won lessons of business partnerships. John shares candid perspectives on his major equipment investments, product development strategy, and why focusing on fewer things done well transformed his business. Plus, hear his thoughts on automation, the challenges of balancing passion with profitability, and maintaining work-life balance as an entrepreneur.

Check out SMW's IG @saundersmachineworks

Machine Loan Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHdDt7VLhjM

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In this episode, I sit down with David Liu, founder of Brittle Fluid, to discuss his fascinating journey from mechanical engineering student to software entrepreneur. David shares his evolution from Harbor Freight mini-mill hobbyist to professional machine shop owner, and his experiences at Neuralink and Atomic Machines. We explore his current ventures creating software tools like Tool Trace and Rocket Brackets that reduce friction in manufacturing workflows, the importance of relationships in the industry, and his vision for the future of US manufacturing. David also offers insights on the value of "sending it" - trying new things without fear - and his philosophy on supporting the machinist community through technology.

Check out Dave's IG @davidliuxyz

And his X at https://x.com/davidliuxyz

Go make some foam at https://www.tooltrace.ai/

and some brackets at https://www.rocketbrackets.com/

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Help support the podcast at the link in bio

#instamachinist #withintolerancepodcast

This week, Justin Gray shares exciting updates about Toolpath Labs' new tool recommendation engine and their partnership with Kennametal, while Zap details his frustrating shop power saga and van towing misadventures. We explore the concept of "technical debt" in both software and machine shops, discuss whether location matters when starting a machine business, and debate the merits of various CAM systems. The conversation covers everything from managing customer-supplied materials and appropriate scrap rates to essential non-machining tools for the shop, with each of us offering practical CAM, metrology, and business tips from our experiences.

Check out Justin's IG @justinsgray and Toolpath Labs @toolpathlabs or ⁠https://www.toolpath.com/⁠

Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting

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Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

From culinary chef to machine shop owner, Rebecca Wolfinger joins me to share her remarkable manufacturing journey. As co-owner of Mil-Spec Manufacturing, Rebecca discusses building a veteran-owned manufacturing business from the ground up, acquiring their first Haas VF4 for just $10,000, and their recent expansion with a Tormach 1500MX robot cell. She describes her experience navigating the machining industry as a woman, her creative WWII-themed rebranding strategy, and how culinary skills translated surprisingly well to lean manufacturing practices. Rebecca also offers candid advice on effective LinkedIn marketing, work-life balance, and the importance of learning every aspect of the business to ensure its longevity.

Check out Rebecca's IG @rebecca.wolfinger and @milspecmanufacturing

Mil-Spec Shop Tour - https://youtu.be/TV6RfVZYX-s

Mil-Spec Rebrand Video - https://youtu.be/60e8bgfELUY

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In this episode, I catch up with Zap after my paternity leave to discuss our recent experiences. Zap shares updates on his whirlwind travels across the country, shop move complications, dental health revelations, and his work on a high-precision linear motor machine. I talk about my new journey into fatherhood, the emotional rollercoaster of the newborn phase, and balancing life. We dive into technical topics like HyperMill automation scripts, Fusion configurations, and optimizing tool libraries. We answer listener questions about time management challenges, machinist education needs, coolant temperature effects on part tolerance, and share our candid thoughts on tool manufacturers' websites. Plus, we discuss how AI tools are changing shop workflow and documentation.

Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting

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In this episode, I catch up with Zap and Justin Gray to discuss recent developments in our respective worlds. We dive into tool libraries, machine shop organization, and the challenges of running growing businesses. Justin shares insights from Toolpath Labs' recent company gathering and their progress with AI-driven CAM automation. Zap updates us on his consulting work, travel schedule, and his move into a new 4,000 sq ft shop space and acquiring essential equipment. We also explore topics like proper chip management, metrology tips, and the importance of maintaining professional standards in business relationships. Plus, we discuss the value of hands-on experience in machining and ways to bring more youth into manufacturing.

Check out Justin's IG @justinsgray and Toolpath Labs @toolpathlabs or https://www.toolpath.com/

Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting

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Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

Easton from Moria Manufacturing returns to share updates and challenges since his last visit. We discuss the rapid expansion, new machines like the SC 300, struggles with employee training, and the unexpected costs of scaling up. Easton provides an in-depth look at how they've optimized their turning operations and shares the invaluable lessons learned from a recent fire incident and transitioning from oil to coolant.

Check out Easton's IG @moria_manufacturing

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This week, Zap updates us on several challenges - his search for a new shop space, ongoing van saga, and dealing with a particularly frustrating customer situation. Meanwhile, I discuss my recent HyperMill software purchase and share thoughts on tool organization in Fusion 360. We also dive into standardizing workflows for small shops and the importance of proper thread gauges.

Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting

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In this episode, I speak with Phil Linscheid, Director of Manufacturing at Hamilton Company, about his journey through the manufacturing industry. Starting as a young manager at Haas Automation to now overseeing a large medical device manufacturing operation, Phil shares insights on managing people, implementing automation, and balancing technical expertise with leadership. He discusses his approach to hiring, developing talent, and the challenges of staying current with rapidly evolving manufacturing technologies, while emphasizing the importance of character over technical expertise in building successful teams. Check out Phil's IG @phillinscheid

and contact him at [email protected]

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Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast