South Carolina's  manufacturing sector is growing at a record pace that shows no signs of slowing, from global manufacturing headquarters to expanding advanced operations. Greenville County alone has averaged manufacturing employment growth of more than 17% over the last decade.
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That momentum makes Greenville the ideal hub for small and medium-sized manufacturers across the Southeast to come together, share ideas, and discover the latest technology that keeps shops competitive.
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We’re bringing a lineup of high-performance tooling and workholding partners that solve real problems on the shop floor:

• AB Tool – Home of the Shear Hog and AccuHold! Special carbide cutting tools delivered in 3–6 days.
• MAQ – Vibration-damped tool holders for internal turning operations from 3xD up to 15xD. 
• Microconic by Masa Tool – Subspindle workholding for Swiss & CNC lathes
• Pratt Burnerd America – Precision lathe chucks and workholding systems
• Soph Magnetics – Magnetic workholding and material handling solutions

While you’re at the show, make sure to stop by our other partners right in our aisle!

• AKKO - Booth 1934 –  A global leader in precision tooling since 1986, AKKO delivers high‑performance rotary toolholders, turning and milling toolholders, and a broad range of precision carbide inserts—tailored for minimal vibration, exceptional surface finish, and versatility across applications
• Blue Photon Technology & Workholding Systems LLC – Booth 1929 - They offer an innovative, patented adhesive workholding system—ideal for gripping complex or delicate parts without distortion, and enabling full 5- or 6-sided access, even in heavy milling of titanium and superalloys.
• EWS USA/ Command Tooling – Booth 1932 - EWS is a global expert in live and static toolholders and modular machining systems; in North America, they operate through the U.S.-based Command Tooling facility, offering precision solid and rotary toolholders under both brands.
• Jergens Workholding – Booth 1928 - A worldwide leader in custom CNC workholding—including vises, clamps, fixturing systems, and their patented Ball Lock® mounting and Fixture‑Pro® 5-Axis solutions—a go-to for boosting set‑up speed and machining productivity. You can also check out the workholdig in action just across the Aisle in the Innova Machine Tool Booth.  They are featuring Jergens workholding on their WSI WVM380 CNC machine.

(Click each name to add them directly to your show planner.
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When it comes to internal turning, one of the most overlooked—yet most critical—decisions a machinist can make is selecting the right boring bar for the job. Get it wrong, and you’re likely to face the age-old enemy of precision machining: chatter.

​Chatter: The Cost of Poor Setup
​Chatter isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a performance killer. It introduces erratic vibrations that compromise surface finish, reduce tool life, and wreak havoc on tolerances. Chatter most commonly occurs when a boring bar lacks the rigidity needed to withstand cutting forces.
Several factors can lead to chatter:

• Improper tool setup, including weak clamping or poor alignment
• Incorrect speeds and feeds, which generate unstable cutting conditions
• Material inconsistencies, such as varying hardness or density
• Tool wear or degradation over time
• Lack of machine or setup rigidity, especially in long overhang applications
• And most importantly—boring bar length-to-diameter ratio (L/D)

Perhaps MAQ said it best right on their homepage:
"The cutting process will become unstable due to vibration, usually in the form of forced vibrations in machining and regenerative tool chatter. That is often solved by trying to stabilize the process with a lower cutting speed, reduced depth of cut, or increased feed per revolution.
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The problem with these actions is that you either reduce production speed or that the surface finish is affected negatively. Usually, it means higher production costs as well. Vibration damping machine tools are necessary to expand the stable working zones of a metal cutting process." 

The longer the tool sticks out from the holder in relation to its diameter, the more flexible it becomes. That flexibility translates into vibration. Fortunately, choosing the right material and sticking within recommended L/D ratios can dramatically reduce the risk of chatter.
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The L/D ratio is a simple concept with major implications. It refers to how far the boring bar extends into the workpiece relative to its diameter. As this ratio increases, rigidity decreases—and that’s where different bar materials come into play.  Just remember 4-6-8-10 as a memory cue as you read this.

Here's how it breaks down:

Steel Boring Bars – Max L/D Ratio: 4:1
Steel boring bars are your go-to for short-reach, general-purpose applications. However, once you exceed 4x the bar diameter, rigidity starts to drop off fast. That can lead to deflection and chatter. Stick to 4:1 or less when using steel.

Heavy Metal Boring Bars – Max L/D Ratio: 6:1
Made from tungsten-based alloys, heavy metal boring bars provide better vibration damping than steel. This allows you to safely push the L/D ratio up to 6:1, giving you extra reach while maintaining acceptable rigidity and precision.

Carbide Boring Bars – Max L/D Ratio: 8:1
Carbide boring bars bring serious stiffness and heat resistance to the table. With an L/D ratio up to 8:1, they’re ideal for deep boring applications that demand both reach and accuracy. Carbide’s high modulus of elasticity helps minimize deflection under load.

Devibe Boring Bars – Max L/D Ratio: 10:1 or More
When you need even more reach—and can't afford to compromise on surface finish—a Devibe or vibration-damped boring bar is the best tool for the job. With L/D ratios of 10:1 and beyond, these bars are engineered with internal damping mechanisms (like tuned mass dampers or viscoelastic inserts) to absorb and counteract vibrations.

The Bottom Line
Choosing the correct boring bar isn't just about length or diameter—it's about achieving the right balance of rigidity, reach, and vibration control to meet your production goals.

Whether you're dealing with standard steel bars or pushing the limits with long-reach internal turning, matching the correct L/D ratio to the right bar material is essential to avoid chatter, maintain precision, and extend tool life.

Remember 4 - 6 - 8 -10!

• 4 = Steel
• 6 = Heavy Metal
• 8 =- Carbide
• 10 = Device bar

If you're facing challenging boring applications, the JMI CNC Tooling & Automation team is here to help. From common setups to extreme overhangs, we can provide proven solutions—including the advanced MAQ DeVibe Bars, engineered to dampen vibration and perform reliably even at 10:1 L/D ratios or more.

​Reach out to us today to discuss your specific application—we’ll help you eliminate chatter and improve performance, no matter how demanding the cut.

by Bernard Martin

MAQ AB has introduced its new Rotational Fine Boring Tools, engineered for fine boring with exceptional precision, surface finish, and ease of operation. In this article, we're going to explore the key features, benefits, and applications of this new technology.

What Is Rotational Fine Boring?
​Rotational fine boring is a precision machining process commonly performed on milling machines, where the tool rotates while the workpiece remains stationary. This method is ideal for achieving high-accuracy hole dimensions and surface finishes.

However, as the tool’s length-to-diameter ratio (L/D) exceeds 3, vibrations become a significant challenge, demanding tools equipped with advanced vibration-dampening technology.

Unlike conventional turning tools with straight shanks, MAQ’s Rotational Fine Boring Tools are specifically designed to pair seamlessly with milling tool backends, which vary in their L/D ratios and vibration frequencies.

​Thanks to MAQ’s STMD (Self-Tuning Mass Damper) technology, these tools adapt dynamically to a broader range of vibration frequencies, delivering unmatched precision, stability, and reliability, even in complex machining tasks.
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MAQ’s latest tools boast a range of advanced features that set them apart -

• Self-Balancing Mechanism – Integrated technology minimizes vibration and ensures exceptional stability, even at rotational speeds up to 20,000 RPM. This results in smoother, more reliable cutting and reduced tool wear.
• Fine Adjustability – Precision adjustments in micron increments (0.001 mm) enable tight tolerances as precise as IT7—or even IT6—making these tools ideal for high-accuracy operations.
• Compatibility – Designed for use with standard toolholders  like CAT, BT & HSK, these tools integrate seamlessly into existing CNC machine setups without additional investments.
• Length-to-Diameter (L/D) Ratios Up to 7xD – The tools are capable of handling operations with extended length-to-diameter ratios while maintaining superior vibration control.
• Exchangeable Cutter Heads – These tools offer the versatility of forward and back boring operations, adapting effortlessly to your machining requirements.
• Coolant-Through Design – Integrated coolant channels flush away chips, cool the workpiece, and extend the lifespan of cutting inserts, improving performance and reducing downtime.
• Surface Finish Excellence – Cutting-edge design and vibration control deliver exceptional surface quality, often eliminating the need for secondary finishing operations.

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We’re excited to launch the first batch of Rotational Fine Boring Tools, available in six models (CK1 to CK6). These tools cover a wide range of applications, allowing you to achieve precision-perfect holes in sizes ranging from 20 mm to 150 mm. Whether you’re working on a simple project or a complex machining task, MAQ tools provide the accuracy and efficiency you need to elevate your operations.
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The MAQ Rotational Fine Boring Tools offer unmatched benefits that make them essential for high-precision machining:

• Precision Performance -  Achieve consistent, micron-level tolerances for critical components such as engine blocks, hydraulic valves, and bearing housings.
• Enhanced Productivity -  High-speed operation (up to 20,000 RPM) and reduced setup times deliver faster cycle times and increased throughput.
• Superior Vibration Control -  The self-balancing mechanism minimizes vibration, improving tool life, machine wear, and performance stability.
• Cost Efficiency - By delivering superior surface finishes, these tools reduce or eliminate secondary finishing operations like polishing and grinding.
• Extended Tool Life - Optimized cutting geometry and balance reduce cutting edge wear, ensuring a longer lifespan and lowering overall production costs.
• Maximum Flexibility - With L/D ratios up to 7xD and exchangeable cutter heads, these tools are versatile enough to tackle the most complex boring operations.

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​Versatility at Your Fingertips
MAQ’s Rotational Fine Boring Tools are designed to deliver flexibility without compromise. The exchangeable cutter heads support both forward and back boring operations, adapting to a variety of machining needs. The coolant-through feature further enhances their functionality, improving chip evacuation, cooling the workpiece, and prolonging insert life—all essential for maintaining peak performance in high-demand environments.

With the launch of the CK1 to CK6 series, MAQ has raised the bar in  fine boring technology, offering precision, efficiency, and versatility in one robust solution. Whether you’re working with aerospace components, automotive parts, or general precision engineering tasks, these tools will help you achieve exceptional results—faster, easier, and with greater reliability.

Upgrade your boring operations with MAQ Rotational Fine Boring Tools and experience the next level of precision machining. Contact JMI CNC & Automation today to learn more about how these innovative tools can transform your workflow!

Despite operating at elevated rotational speeds, the MAQ devibe holder effectively minimizes vibration, thanks to its integrated self-balancing mechanism and advanced STMD (Self-Tuning Mass Damper) technology.

This is particularly significant because it highlights how MAQ's tools overcome common challenges associated with extended length-to-diameter ratios (L/D), delivering superior surface finishes and achieving micron-level tolerances.

For manufacturing sectors requiring extreme precision, such as aerospace and automotive, this performance represents a major leap forward in efficiency and reliability, reducing rework and eliminating the need for secondary operations.

​JMI CNC Tooling & Automation is proud to announce the participation of our esteemed principals at IMTS 2024 in Chicago.

​This premier manufacturing technology show, which runs from September 9-14, 2024, will feature innovations and products from leading companies represented by JMI, including Achteck, BRM Brush Research, Blue Photon Workholding, GMN Spindles, Jergens Workholding, MAQ Devibe Tooling, Pratt Burnerd America, and Widen Cutting Tools.

These industry leaders will showcase their latest advancements and solutions, highlighting their commitment to excellence and innovation in the CNC tooling and automation sectors.

Achteck is one of the world's fast growing manufacturers of carbide cutting tools, friction materials, wear resistant items, and civil engineering products.

Brush Research Manufacturing is a leading American manufacturer of premium quality power brushes, twisted-in-wire brushes, and the BRM Flex-Hone Tool. Focused on creating solutions for metal surface finishing, deburring, cleaning and polishing, Brush Research sells products domestically as well as exports products to a global network of distributors.

Blue Photon’s patented workholding products are a manufacturer’s solution to hold parts for tight-tolerance machining and inspection. Blue Photon designs and manufacturers grip technology for complex-shaped, and hard-to-hold parts. Blue Photon grippers are easily installed into fixtures to grip and support the part without the use of mechanical clamps.

GMN USA is the North American Spindle Sales and Service Center for GMN Paul Mueller Industries, a world-wide supplier of high-speed machine tool spindles, high precision bearings, clutches and seals

Jergens Inc is a global manufacturing leader of CNC machining custom workholding products. Today, you'll find their vises, clamps & fixturing systems, tooling components, at work in just about every segment of the metalcutting industry on every continent. And our innovative engineered solutions like the patented Ball Lock®️ Mounting System and Fixture-Pro®️ 5-axis workholding have changed the way manufacturers worldwide think about metalworking productivity.

Pratt Burnerd America is in the business of supplying quality workholding products for CNC Lathes and turning machines throughout North America. They have one of the largest varieties of rotary workholding products in the world, with Power Chucks, Manual Chucks, Collet Chucks, Collets, Special Chucks, Rotating Cylinders, and Workholding Accessories. 

by ​Mariah Hellman

In an industry where precision and efficiency is paramount, MAQ has positioned themselves at the forefront of machining technology. Ahmed Bousmina, Mechanical Engineer at MAQ, sheds light on how the company is revolutionizing the machining process with its innovative tooling solutions, particularly focusing on turning tool holders equipped with proprietary dampening technology to combat harmful vibrations during machining.

Innovating for efficiency and flexibility
At the heart of MAQ’s product line are the turning tool holders, designed to accommodate a range of operational lengths and diameters, ensuring versatility for various machining tasks. “Our tools are categorized to simplify selection for our customers, focusing on the diameter and operational length rather than the total length of the tool, which is often irrelevant to the buyer,” Ahmed explains. This user-centric approach underscores MAQ’s commitment to providing solutions that genuinely meet the needs of operators and manufacturing professionals.

Cutting-edge dampening technology
What truly sets MAQ apart is the integration of dampening technology within their tool holders. This innovation significantly reduces vibrations that can compromise machining quality, allowing for smoother operations and higher precision. “We’ve divided our products into four main sections based on the tool’s diameter and the stick-out length, offering unparalleled performance across a wide range of specifications,” Ahmed says.

Carbide reinforced and steel options
When going into detail on the distinction between carbide-reinforced (CR) and full steel tool holders, Ahmed highlights how material choice is pivotal when machining at various lengths. “For longer tools where bending moments become a concern, carbide reinforcement on the tool’s back end ensures rigidity and optimal performance,” he noted. This nuanced understanding of material properties and machining dynamics is a testament to MAQ’s expertise and innovation in tool design.

Modular and monoblock configurations
MAQ offers tools in both modular and monoblock configurations, catering to different machining requirements. The modular system provides flexibility, allowing for head changes to accommodate various machining processes without the need for multiple tools. On the other hand, monoblock tools offer a rigid, integrated solution for specific applications. “This versatility ensures that our customers can achieve the best results with minimal tool changeover time,” Ahmed adds.

Future directions and market expansion
Looking ahead, MMAQ is focused on expanding its product range to provide for even more specialized needs. Already today, MAQ offers the widest range of products on the market, with the smallest tool measuring 6mm, and the largest up to 80mm in the standard range, while the capabilities span up to 350 millimeters in diameter and 5,5 meters in length. The technology is scalable, which enables everything from medical components requiring miniature precision to large-scale parts in the oil and gas or defense sectors. This, ensuring that MAQ’s technology is versatile enough to meet a broad spectrum of industry demands. Looking to the future, the goal is to expand the product range even more, to meet an even wider number of industries. “Our aim is to simplify machining worldwide, making it more efficient, precise, and cost-effective for our clients,” Ahmed concluded.
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With a relentless pursuit of innovation and a keen eye on the evolving needs of the machining industry, MAQ is not just a tool manufacturer – but a partner in machining excellence, paving the way for future advancements in the field.

by ​Jerry McNealy, Owner, Indian Mountain Machine

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My name is Jerry McNealy – I’ve been in the machining industry for over thirty years, and I am the owner and operator of Indian Mountain Machine based out of Jellico, Tennessee. Here, we handle some highly complex and precision parts (most of which have just as high a value placed on their cosmetics as they do their function/tolerance).

Pair this with the fact that I started running a CNC lathe only a couple years into my early career, and I can definitely claim to know a thing or two about some of the problems you tend to come across with thin-wall parts in a lathe.

At our shop, we do several somewhat thin wall long parts, and we’ve bought other anti-vibe bars in the past that have usually resulted in having to turn the RPM down very low, as well as the feed rates, which results in these projects taking a considerable amount of time to achieve the finish we need – and it’s still not good enough.

One day, we were tooling up another machine to do some parts, and I spoke with Gary McNealy at Jones Marketing Inc., who suggested that we try out this new chatter-free anti-vibe bar made by MAQ. I hadn’t yet heard of MAQ, but it looked interesting, and I trusted his recommendation. Looking back on it now, I’m extremely glad we did – because I have never seen anything perform quite as well as these bars do.

We decided to start out with a 1” diameter bar, running some 6.5” long parts – which then progressed into some 8” long parts, and still only required a 1” diameter bar.

And as we continued to run parts, we kept increasing the speed and feed rate, before finally ending up around 1000 RPMs and a feed rate of .005 IPR.

We were completely surprised by the finish, not to mention the speed with which we could now produce these parts!

In fact, another incredible thing that the MAQ Bar’s performance has done is improve the product and its finish, allowing us to actually skip the dreaded sanding and polishing process. Some parts can even be cleaned and shipped straight to plating.

​We ended up going into some 9” long parts, which we were able to get the 1.25” bar for. To really illustrate how great the MAQ Bar is, though, when we first started running the parts, I went over to my toolbox and got the best 1.25” anti-vibe bar that we’d had previously, thinking that we might just try with it first and see how it goes. This bar has seen a lot of parts over the years, and it has a lot of character to show for it; rubber bands wrapped around it, bungee cords wrapped around the parts, the whole deal – anything to dampen vibration.

Using this bar, however, we only ended up with what I figured to be a low RPM, slow speed, and a very poor finish. This particular part we were working on was going to take up to an hour and 15 minutes to rough and finish the bore.

But once we switched over to the MAQ 1.25” Bar, it roughed and finished the part with the same bar in less than 15 minutes. The finished product was checking at under a 20 (micro), and was absolutely immaculate.

Like I said, I’ve been at this a long time – and I’ve definitely been around the block enough to recognize a game-changer when I see it.

MAQ Bars are, without a doubt, true standouts that have impressed me and the rest of the team here at Indian Mountain Machine. They are built to extremely high standards, save us valuable time, and are completely dependable, always resulting in final products that we are proud to ship out from our shop.

​I am personally a huge fan of MAQ, and I cannot recommend them highly enough. You will not be disappointed with what they have to offer.

This video demonstrates how to use a digital protractor - level indicator - angle indicator, to align a CNC turning tool. The video shows setting up the tool both in a turret of a turning machine and multi-task machines.

Via MAQ Tool.

Grooving has always been a challenging machining task, both for internal and external machining, due to its vibrations. Particularly for internal grooving operations, the feed force is aligned to the radial direction of the tool, and that excites substantial vibrations in the tool holder.

​Traditionally the recommendation is to use a steel damped bar for grooving operations above 5xD and a carbide-reinforced damped bar for operations 6-7xD. Above 7xD it has earlier been nearly impossible to do grooving. Thanks to MAQ, it’s now possible to do grooving operations up to 8xD!

Using an STMD M25-255 product which is a standard steel bar damped with the STMD technology, with an SXFNR 251724 16 cutter head and 16 IR W 2.25 insert, we perform grooving at 8xD overhang length.

​Machining in alloyed steel of 4340 HRC 28-30, the grooving process was smooth and quiet. Thanks to the STMD technology, with its Self-Tuning capabilities, the tool adapts to different types of vibrations, and the limits are again pushed by MAQ.