Cutoff

This is always the last lathe machining operation. It frees the part from the stock material.

Figure 8.35: Cutoff

Rules for Cutoff

• Cutoff operations are much like grooving operations.

• As shown in the detail view above, cutoff usually begins with a cut that forms a radius or chamfer on the back side of the part. The tool then retracts, moves back, and then plunges to cut away the part.

• Consider using a parts catcher to keep the part from falling into the bottom of the machine and being scratched by the cut chips.