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

Inspect workpieces for defects, and measure workpieces to determine accuracy of machine operation, using rules, templates, or other measuring instruments.

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

Position, adjust, and secure stock material or workpieces against stops, on arbors, or in chucks, fixtures, or automatic feeding mechanisms, manually or using hoists.

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

Read blueprints or job orders to determine product specifications and tooling instructions and to plan operational sequences.

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

Select, install, and adjust alignment of drills, cutters, dies, guides, and holding devices, using templates, measuring instruments, and hand tools.

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

Observe machine operation to detect workpiece defects or machine malfunctions, adjusting machines as necessary.

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

Set up and operate machines, such as lathes, cutters, shears, borers, millers, grinders, presses, drills, or auxiliary machines, to make metallic and plastic workpieces.

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

Change worn machine accessories, such as cutting tools or brushes, using hand tools.

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

Set machine stops or guides to specified lengths as indicated by scales, rules, or templates.

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

Select the proper coolants and lubricants and start their flow.

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

Remove burrs, sharp edges, rust, or scale from workpieces, using files, hand grinders, wire brushes, or power tools.

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

Perform minor machine maintenance, such as oiling or cleaning machines, dies, or workpieces, or adding coolant to machine reservoirs.

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

Make minor electrical and mechanical repairs and adjustments to machines and notify supervisors when major service is required.

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

Compute data, such as gear dimensions or machine settings, applying knowledge of shop mathematics.

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

Start machines and turn handwheels or valves to engage feeding, cooling, and lubricating mechanisms.

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

Move controls or mount gears, cams, or templates in machines to set feed rates and cutting speeds, depths, and angles.

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

Instruct other workers in machine set-up and operation.

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

Record operational data, such as pressure readings, lengths of strokes, feed rates, or speeds.

Routine cognitive or manual task with high vulnerability to automation.

Extract or lift jammed pieces from machines, using fingers, wire hooks, or lift bars.

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

Measure and mark reference points and cutting lines on workpieces, using traced templates, compasses, and rules.

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

Write programs for computer numerical control (CNC) machines to cut metal and plastic materials.

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

Align layout marks with dies or blades.

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