Mathematics for Machine Technology, Eighth Edition

Shop-Floor Mathematics, Taught Step by Step

Mathematics for Machine Technology, Eighth Edition is built for people who need math to work in the real world of machining, toolmaking, and manufacturing. Authors John C. Peterson and Robert D. Smith start with the fundamentals—fractions, decimals, ratio, proportion, and measurement—then move steadily into algebra, geometry, trigonometry, compound angles, and CNC. Each topic is presented as a practical tool rather than an abstract exercise, with examples that mirror the calculations machinists actually perform.

What the Eighth Edition Covers ⚙️

The book is organized into nine sections, each made up of short, focused units. That structure makes it easy to work through in sequence or to revisit a specific skill when a job requires it. Major areas include:

• Common fractions, decimal fractions, and calculator/spreadsheet operations
• Ratio, proportion, percentages, and linear measurement
• Customary and metric measuring tools, tolerances, and gages
• Fundamentals of algebra and formula rearrangement
• Plane geometry, angular measurement, and geometric constructions
• Areas and volumes of common and composite figures
• Trigonometry and practical machine applications
• Compound angles for drilling, boring, and machining
• Computer numerical control, positioning systems, and G- and M-codes

Built Around Real Machining Applications 📐

What sets this text apart is its analytical approach. Instead of simply showing a formula and asking for a number, it teaches readers how to interpret engineering drawings, translate dimensions into machine working dimensions, and solve problems in the order they arise in a shop. The geometry, trigonometry, compound angle, and CNC sections are especially geared toward that kind of practical reasoning.

New and Updated in This Edition

The eighth edition adds spreadsheet instruction for tablets such as iPad, Microsoft Surface, and Samsung Galaxy. It introduces a new unit on G- and M-codes for CNC programming, includes selected instruction for the Machinist Calc Pro 2, and updates calculator examples throughout. Many older keystroke-level calculator instructions have been trimmed to make room for more relevant problem-solving content.

Who This Book Is For

Apprentices in machine, tool-and-die, and tool design occupations will find a structured path from basic arithmetic to advanced shop mathematics. Students in technical and community college programs can use it as a core text, while working machinists and manufacturing professionals can keep it nearby as a reference for formulas, measurement, and CNC calculations. Answers to odd-numbered applications support independent study.

A Practical Reference for the Trade

Good machining depends on accurate numbers, and this edition treats mathematics as part of the craft. Whether you are learning the trade, teaching it, or returning to a topic you have not used in years, Mathematics for Machine Technology offers clear explanations, realistic examples, and a progression that respects how shop skills are actually built.