Will AI Replace Lathe and Turning Machine Tool Setters, Operators, and Tenders, Metal and Plastic?

Adjust machine controls and change tool settings to keep dimensions within specified tolerances.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Move controls to set cutting speeds and depths and feed rates, and to position tools in relation to workpieces.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Study blueprints, layouts or charts, and job orders for information on specifications and tooling instructions, and to determine material requirements and operational sequences.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Inspect sample workpieces to verify conformance with specifications, using instruments such as gauges, micrometers, and dial indicators.

Semi-structured cognitive task involving analysis, inspection, or monitoring.

Replace worn tools, and sharpen dull cutting tools and dies, using bench grinders or cutter-grinding machines.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Move toolholders manually or by turning handwheels, or engage automatic feeding mechanisms to feed tools to and along workpieces.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Compute unspecified dimensions and machine settings, using knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Crank machines through cycles, stopping to adjust tool positions and machine controls to ensure specified timing, clearances, and tolerances.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Position, secure, and align cutting tools in toolholders on machines, using hand tools, and verify their positions with measuring instruments.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Start lathe or turning machines and observe operations to ensure that specifications are met.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Program computer numerical control machines.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Refill, change, and monitor the level of fluids, such as oil and coolant, in machines.

Semi-structured cognitive task involving analysis, inspection, or monitoring.

Clean work area.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Lift metal stock or workpieces manually or using hoists, and position and secure them in machines, using fasteners and hand tools.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Install holding fixtures, cams, gears, and stops to control stock and tool movement, using hand tools, power tools, and measuring instruments.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Select cutting tools and tooling instructions, according to written specifications or knowledge of metal properties and shop mathematics.

Semi-structured task combining routine and non-routine responsibilities.

Mount attachments, such as relieving or tracing attachments, to perform operations, such as duplicating contours of templates or trimming workpieces.

Complex problem-solving, strategic leadership, or high-empathy task requiring human judgment.

Turn valve handles to direct the flow of coolant onto work areas or to coat disks with spinning compounds.

Complex problem-solving, strategic leadership, or high-empathy task requiring human judgment.