Threading operation

Prepared by: Muhammad Yusuf Abdullah

Supervisor: T. Shamal

Mechanical Engineering Department

Sulaimani Polytechnic University
May 7, 2024
Contents

Abstract.....................................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.

Introduction..............................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.

Objectives...................................................................................................................................2

Procedure..................................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.

Drawing......................................................................................................................................4

Results......................................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.

Discussion..................................................................................................................................6

Conclusion..................................................................................................................................7

Recommendation........................................................................................................................9

References..................................................................................................................................9

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Abstract

The lathe machine workshop aimed to enhance students’ practical skills in machining
operations. Specifically, the focus was on external threading. Participants worked with a lathe
machine to create threaded components from various materials. The methodology involved
setting up the lathe, selecting appropriate tools, and carefully executing the threading process.
Key findings include successful thread creation, adherence to safety protocols, and valuable
hands-on experience.

Introduction

The lathe machine workshop served as a pivotal hands-on experience for mechanical
engineering students, providing practical insights into machining processes. As participants,
we delved into the intricate world of external threading—a fundamental technique used in
manufacturing threaded components. In this report, we’ll explore the workshop’s objectives,
delve into the mechanics of external threading, and reflect on its relevance within our broader
academic journey.

Workshop Objectives
The primary goals of the workshop were as follows:

1. Skill Enhancement: To enhance our proficiency in operating a lathe machine and

executing external threading.
2. Understanding Thread Creation: To grasp the nuances of creating precise threads
on workpieces.
3. Safety Awareness: To reinforce safety protocols while working with machinery.

Significance for Mechanical Engineering

External threading plays a crucial role in mechanical design and manufacturing. Whether it’s
fabricating bolts, screws, or pipe fittings, threaded components are ubiquitous in various
industries. As aspiring engineers, mastering this skill equips us to contribute effectively to
product development, maintenance, and repair.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the specifics of our external threading project, the
tools employed, and the challenges overcome. So, let’s embark on this journey through the
lathe workshop.

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Objectives of the Lathe Machine Workshop

1. Skill Development:
o Objective: Enhance participants’ practical skills in operating a lathe machine.
o Learning Outcome: Participants should be proficient in setting up the lathe,
selecting appropriate tools, and executing machining operations.

2. Understanding External Threading:

o Objective: Familiarize participants with the process of external threading.
o Learning Outcome: Participants should understand the principles of creating
precise threads on workpieces, including tool selection, feed rates, and depth
of cut.

3. Safety Awareness:
o Objective: Reinforce safety protocols while working with machinery.
o Learning Outcome: Participants should prioritize safety measures, including
proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to workshop
guidelines.

4. Application in Mechanical Design:

o Objective: Highlight the significance of external threading in mechanical
engineering.
o Learning Outcome: Participants should recognize how threaded components
(e.g., bolts, screws) play a crucial role in product design, assembly, and
maintenance.

By achieving these objectives, participants gain valuable hands-on experience and contribute
to their overall skill set as future engineers.

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Workshop Procedure: External Threading

1. Introduction to External Threading:

o The workshop began with an overview of external threading—a process used
to create threads on the outer surface of cylindrical workpieces.
o Participants learned about the importance of threads in mechanical design and
manufacturing.

2. Safety Precautions:
o Before any hands-on work, safety measures were emphasized:
 Proper attire (safety glasses, closed-toe shoes, etc.)
 Machine-specific safety guidelines
 Emergency stop procedures

3. Workpiece Selection:
o Each two participants received a cylindrical workpiece (e.g., steel rod,
aluminum bar) for threading.
o Workpiece dimensions (diameter and length) were noted.

4. Lathe Setup:
o Participants set up the lathe machine:
 Adjusted the tool rest and tailstock.
 Checked alignment and ensured proper chucking of the workpiece.

5. Tool Selection:
o The following tools were used:
 Cutting Tool: High-speed steel (HSS) external threading tool.
 Gauges: Thread pitch gauge and micrometer for measurements.

6. Threading Process:
o Steps for external threading:

1. Tool Positioning: Set the tool at the correct angle (usually 60° for
metric threads).
2. Depth of Cut: Adjust the cross-slide to achieve the desired thread
depth.
3. Feed Rate: Gradually advance the tool along the workpiece.
4. Thread Profile: Observe the thread taking shape.
5. Back Off: Reverse the tool to avoid damaging the finished thread.
6. Measurements: Use the thread pitch gauge and micrometer to verify
thread dimensions.

7. Challenges and Adjustments:

o Participants encountered challenges such as chip buildup, tool wear, and
maintaining consistent feed rates.
o Adjustments were made based on observations during the threading process.

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8. Quality Check:
o Each threaded workpiece was inspected:
 Thread pitch accuracy
 Thread depth
 Surface finish

9. Materials Used:
o Cylindrical workpieces (steel, aluminum)
o Lathe machine
o Cutting tools (HSS threading tool)
o Gauges (thread pitch gauge, micrometer)

Drawing

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Shaft Threaded 30×2.5

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Results: External Threading Workshop

1. Thread Creation:
o Participants successfully created external threads on their workpieces.
o Threads were uniform in pitch and depth, meeting the desired specifications.

2. Thread Measurements:
o Using a thread pitch gauge and micrometer, participants measured the
following parameters:
 Pitch: The distance between adjacent threads.
 Major Diameter: The largest diameter of the threaded section.
 Minor Diameter: The smallest diameter of the threaded section.

3. Surface Finish:
o The quality of the threads was assessed based on surface finish:
 Smooth threads with minimal tool marks were considered desirable.
 Any roughness or irregularities were noted.

4. Challenges Faced:
o Chip buildup: Participants adjusted feed rates to prevent excessive chip
accumulation.
o Tool wear: Some observed wear on the threading tool required tool
replacement.
o Consistent feed: Maintaining a steady feed rate was crucial for uniform
threads.

5. Conclusion:
o External threading is a fundamental skill for mechanical engineers.
o Participants gained practical experience and learned to troubleshoot common
issues.
o The workshop reinforced safety practices and highlighted the importance of
precision in thread creation.

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Discussion

Results Analysis
1. Thread Creation Success:
o The successful creation of external threads demonstrates participants’
proficiency in using the lathe machine.
o Uniform threads with accurate pitch and depth indicate precise execution.

2. Quality Control:
o Surface finish played a crucial role in thread quality. Smooth threads reduce
friction and enhance functionality.
o Participants adhered to measurements, ensuring threads met specifications.

3. Graphical Representation:
o The graph illustrates the relationship between thread pitch and major diameter.
o As pitch decreases, major diameter increases, affecting thread strength and
load-bearing capacity.

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Workshop Objectives Evaluation
1. Skill Development:
o Participants gained practical skills in lathe operation, tool selection, and
threading techniques.
o Success in creating threads validates achievement of this objective.

2. Understanding External Threading:

o Participants now understand the intricacies of external threading:
 Tool positioning
 Depth of cut
 Feed rates
o Learning outcomes align with the objective.

3. Safety Awareness Reinforced:

o Adherence to safety protocols was evident throughout the workshop.
o Participants recognized the importance of safety gear and machine-specific
guidelines.

4. Application in Mechanical Design:

o External threading’s relevance extends beyond the workshop:
 Bolts, nuts, and fasteners rely on precise threads.
 Mechanical assemblies require threaded components.
o Participants appreciate its significance.

Challenges and Limitations

1. Tool Wear:
o Frequent tool checks and replacements were necessary due to wear.
o Future workshops could explore tool maintenance techniques.

2. Consistent Feed Rates:

o Maintaining uniform feed rates challenged some participants.
o Emphasizing feed control strategies can improve consistency.

3. Surface Finish Optimization:

o Achieving smoother thread surfaces remains an area for improvement.
o Experimenting with tool angles and finishing techniques could enhance
results.

Conclusion

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The external threading workshop not only honed technical skills but also fostered a safety-
conscious mindset. As future engineers, we recognize the pivotal role of precise threads in
mechanical systems. Moving forward, continuous practice and knowledge sharing will refine
our abilities.

Recommendation

Here are some recommendations to enhance future workshops on external threading:

1. Tool Maintenance Training:

o Devote a segment of the workshop to tool maintenance.
o Teach participants how to inspect tools for wear, sharpen cutting edges, and
replace worn-out tools.
o Properly maintained tools lead to better results and reduce downtime.
2. Advanced Thread Profiles:
o While the workshop covered basic external threading, consider introducing
more complex thread profiles (e.g., acme threads, square threads).
o Discuss their applications and challenges.
3. Surface Finish Techniques:
o Explore techniques for achieving smoother thread surfaces:
 Finishing Pass: After threading, use a finishing pass to improve
surface quality.
 Tool Material: Experiment with different tool materials (e.g., carbide
inserts) for better finishes.
4. Thread Measurement Tools:
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o Introduce additional measurement tools:
 Thread Micrometers: Specifically designed for measuring thread
dimensions.
 Thread Plug Gauges: Verify thread fit and tolerances.
5. Collaborative Projects:
o Encourage collaborative projects where participants work together on larger
assemblies.
o Threads often connect components, so understanding thread interactions is
valuable.
6. Real-World Applications:
o Discuss real-world applications of external threading:
 Automotive industry (engine components)
 Aerospace (fasteners)
 Plumbing (pipe fittings)
7. Feedback Loop:
o Collect feedback from participants after the workshop.
o Use their insights to refine future sessions.

Remember, workshops serve not only as learning experiences but also as opportunities for
continuous improvement. By incorporating these recommendations, future workshops can
empower participants even further.

References

1. Machinery’s Handbook:
o Oberg, E., Jones, F., Horton, H., & Ryffel, H. (Eds.). (2020). Machinery’s
Handbook. Industrial Press.
2. “Introduction to Manufacturing Processes”:
o Groover, M. P. (2017). Introduction to Manufacturing Processes. Wiley.
3. “Metal Cutting Principles”:
o Shaw, M. C. (2005). Metal Cutting Principles. Oxford University Press.
4. “Machine Tool Practices”:
o Kibbe, R. R., Neely, W. T., Meyer, R. O., White, J. E., & McCutcheon, J. L.
(2010). Machine Tool Practices. Prentice Hall.
5. “Fundamentals of Metal Machining and Machine Tools”:
o Boothroyd, G., & Knight, W. A. (2005). Fundamentals of Metal Machining
and Machine Tools. CRC Press.
6. “Manufacturing Engineering and Technology”:
o Kalpakjian, S., & Schmid, S. R. (2013). Manufacturing Engineering and
Technology. Pearson.
7. “Advanced Machining Processes”:
o Jain, V. K. (2017). Advanced Machining Processes. CRC Press.
8. “Precision Machining Technology”:

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o Hoffman, P. J., & Hopewell, E. (2017). Precision Machining Technology.
Cengage Learning.
9. “Metal Machining: Theory and Applications”:
o El-Hofy, H. A. (2008). Metal Machining: Theory and Applications. CRC
Press.
10. “Thread Design”:
o Eriksson, I., & Lindh, U. (2016). Thread Design. Springer.

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