Mill machinists make parts for the manufacturing industry. They work with a variety of metals to create fitted pieces that are made to exact specifications. Milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and other tools are used to complete the work. While some of these machines require manual handling, the vast majority of them are computer numerically controlled (CNC).
To work as a mill machinist, you must have a variety of skills. A mill operator, for example, must be able to calibrate various pieces of equipment based on specifications provided by a design engineer. The mill machinist then configures each piece of equipment used to accurately cut and bore each piece of metal, usually in a batch load, using these “specs” as a blueprint. Programming the correct sequence of operations to be carried out by the machining equipment, as well as calculating the proper speed and cutting depth required to complete the task, are all part of this step in the machining process.
The mill machinist must still monitor the process, even though the sequence of events is largely automated after configuration. For example, if the feed rate at which the raw metal material passes through the equipment fails, the entire operation may be jeopardized, and the equipment may be damaged. It’s also important to keep an eye out for any irregularities, such as overheating caused by metal expansion. It’s also possible that vibrations caused by dull cutting tools will jeopardize the project. The mill machinist is also known as a production machinist because he or she closely monitors operations.
Some mill machinists have received CNC programming training and are capable of writing their own code. As a result, the job title is also known as CNC mill machinist or just CNC machinist. Others may have received training in the repair and maintenance of machine parts used in the production of new parts. Furthermore, some machinists may receive training to operate advanced milling equipment, such as those that run on water, electricity, or a laser.
A mill machinist can expect to stand for the majority of the day and be subjected to a moderate level of noise. As a result, certain safety equipment, such as ear and eye protection, must be worn. Because the job entails handling and feeding machinery that pulls in raw materials, caution should be exercised to avoid injury to the hands and fingers. Long-sleeved or loose clothing, as well as any type of jewelry, are not recommended.
A mill machinist’s pay is generally considered good, especially for those working in the automotive or aerospace industries. Overtime is frequently available, particularly during peak production periods. Some machine shops, on the other hand, close down during certain times of the year when production is expected to be low, usually for a few weeks in December or January.