A truly authoritative study of a "model American union" (IAM has long been known as one of the most ethical and efficient), based on complete access to the organization's files. Beginning with an interpretive history to 1953, the book analyzes IAM's formal and informal structure and its policies with regard to other unions, employers, public, and government, isolating dynamic features of the decision making process. It includes documented evidence of the difficulties and analyzes both sides of the many controversies IAM has faced.

A century and a half before the modern information technology revolution, machinists in the eastern United States created the nation's first high technology industries. In iron foundries and steam-engine works, locomotive works, machine and tool shops, textile-machinery firms, and firearms manufacturers, these resourceful workers pioneered the practice of dispersing technological expertise through communities of practice. In the first book to study this phenomenon since the 1916 classic, English and American Tool Builders, David R. Meyer examines the development of skilled-labor exchange systems, showing how individual metalworking sectors grew and moved outward. He argues that the networked behavior of machinists within and across industries helps explain the rapid transformation of metalworking industries during the antebellum period, building a foundation for the sophisticated, mass production/consumer industries that figured so prominently in the later U.S. economy.

· An introduction and project-based course to the lathe and lathe metalworking · Contains 12 projects that start with basic tasks and progress into advanced skills · Projects are heavily illustrated with drawings and photographs · Great practice for both beginners and experienced lathe owners

This CD-ROM contains the PDF version of Metalworking Sink or Swim. This collection of priceless tips, tricks, skills, and experiences from a veteran of the trade is presented in a way that captures the attention of users and engages them in the process of furthering the art. It includes shop-tested descriptions and illustrations of creative and unique skills and observations from almost 40 years in the metalworking trades. What's more, it offers enough material from several metalworking trades to start a great research and development shop. It is sure to be a valuable and time-saving resource for anyone involved in the fabrication of metal. Written by a shop peer from the perspective of having done the required work. Includes numerous photos and illustrative stories that help users easily understand the material presented and the techniques provided. Contains a chapter on flame straightening techniques. Offers many examples of special workholding techniques. Covers crossover skills like Welding/Machine, Sheetmetal/Welding, and Design/Management.

· A detailed resource to choose, install, and operate a milling machine · Provides expert advice to decide which accessories are essential in a task and which can wait · Includes helpful photography, illustrations, diagrams, and explanations · Learn correct ways to cut metal and maintain all your tools · Build decision-making skills for accomplishing critical tasks