1010 – 07 – Regulating Chip Control

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Every metal cutting process creates chips, which can be hot and sharp due to the extreme speeds and temperatures associated with cutting operations. As a result, chips can inflict burns or cuts on nearby workers. Handling chips requires the right equipment and appropriate caution.

CNC machines have equipment that automatically takes chips away from the point of operation. This equipment usually includes either an auger or a conveyor belt. Cutting machines that use straight oil will create chips that stick inside the machine, requiring an air nozzle or oil sprayers to remove chips from the machine.

Manual machine operations don’t occur within the fixed guards and therefore can be riskier. Most operators can use chip guards to protect themselves when working on a manual machine. When removing chips from the workpiece, make sure the machine is at a complete stop.