Lathes , milling machines , and similar types of equipment that produce cuttings or flying particles should be set at ___ degree angles to each other

• A. 5 degrees
• B. 10 degrees
• C. 15 degrees
• D. 30 degrees

Answer: (C)

Fifteen degrees is used to direct flying chips away from the operator and toward the chip guards or floor. Setting two shields or guards at a small positive angle creates a shallow V-shaped path that catches and deflects chips downward and away, reducing the chance of contact with the operator or other surfaces. Too small an angle won’t redirect chips effectively, while too large an angle can trap chips or make the setup awkward to work with. That balance is why fifteen degrees is the best choice for machines that produce cuttings.