Machine tools are used in the construction of other tools and instruments. They are fundamental implements that change the shape, surface, or properties of an blank object made of metal, plastic, wood, or other material. In a basic sense they cut or chip away at a material, and typically they are powered by electricity. Often they require cooling in order to dissipate the heat that is generated.

The choice of machine tool is important, because the object to be constructed must frequently be to a certain accuracy, dimension, or specification. It might be required to have a certain surface finish, or a tapered edge, or grooves on a side.

There are basic machine tools in any machining shop. They include: (1) the lathe, which allows boring of a hole in an object. The object to be cut is placed on a rotating spindle, and a cutting tool...