A rigid, stationary, powered piece of equipment designed to accurately shape metal or other rigid materials. Unlike hand tools or simple power tools, they guide the cutting path mechanically or digitally, removing the human element from the physical cutting motion. This category includes lathes, mills, grinders, and shapers.
Heard on the job
We're bringing in a new machine tool next week, so clear out the space near the big bandsaw.
Related terms
Milling machine
A stationary machine tool that uses a rotating cutter to remove material from a workpiece.
Lathe
A machine tool that spins a workpiece against a stationary cutting tool.
Machining center
An automated, computer-controlled machine tool capable of performing multiple milling and drilling operations.