Way back in October of 2010, our NYC CNC YouTube channel was just starting to get some legs in the CNC community when we placed the order for our first Tormach mill. Fast forward ten years, we have watched this community grow – as has SMW and the Tormach product line!

A Machinist Vise (also called a Milling Vise) is probably the most popular workholding solution available for milling machines.

We recently got our hands on Tormach’s new small form factor 4th Axis the microARC. Paired with some Fusion 360 beta 4th axis, this 100mm 4th axis rotary is a fantastic accessory for machinists at all levels. With a small footprint, the microARC is incredibly versatile – and its harmonic drive gearbox makes it incredibly rigid and nearly backlash-free.

If you’ve ever made parts out of stainless steel, you know that it can be a challenge to cut. Not only is stainless hard, but often, if you’re using this material, you want to get a nice surface finish. That combined challenge means there are a few things to consider.

DarkAero is a small aerospace company based in Madison, WI that is looking to create a personal aircraft that the user purchases in components and builds themselves. While this isn’t a new concept in the world of experimental aircraft, DarkAero is looking to go further and faster.

From washing and polishing to powder coating and sandblasting, there are endless ways to finish your parts. When you’re dealing with aluminum or titanium, anodizing is one of the most popular.