What characterizes a shaper in machining?

• A. Is a type of machine tool that uses linear relative motion between the workpiece and a single point cutting tool to machine a linear tool path.
• B. Uses a rotating workpiece to shape material with a fixed tool.
• C. Employs a rotating cutting tool to produce circular paths.
• D. Is used exclusively for finishing operations.

Answer: (A)

A shaper works by using a single-point cutting tool that moves in a straight line relative to the workpiece to machine a straight, linear path. The ram carrying the tool travels in a straight line, cutting during the forward stroke while the return stroke is non-cutting, and the workpiece is typically clamped and stationary or fed only between strokes. This setup is what produces flat surfaces, slots, and keyways with a straight-cut path.

This differs from setups where the workpiece rotates or the cutting tool rotates to produce circular paths, and it isn’t limited to finishing operations—shapers can be used for roughing as well.