Tlusty tome is the work of a lifetime

This new book by Jiri (George) Tlusty is a tome representing a lifetime of work in the manufacturing industry and academia, on both sides of the Atlantic. The current form arises from many years of teaching manufacturing by Tlusty and several colleagues and, it is claimed, represents a one-semester programme of three hours each week. This reviewer joins the sceptics who doubt the possibility of this achievement.

Nevertheless, this should not detract from the obvious qualities of the book. The scope is vast and, to assist the reader, the 12 chapters are divided into four well-defined parts. These range from introduction to the background of manufacturing and materials, through conventional machining processes and design of machine tools, to assembly and more recent additions to the range of manufacturing techniques, which include rapid prototyping.

The text is liberally enhanced with a wide range of illustrations and graphs. There is a very helpful feature at the end of each chapter that lists references, questions and problems.

The use of separate questions requiring textual answers and problems with numerical work is very helpful. This allows for use as an introduction and for learning of a deeper nature. The extensive index is also helpful, although the key words are more North American than European.

The most obvious user of the book would appear to be a lecturer in manufacturing engineering who might use it for illustrations and questions/problems. Students might use it much more as a reference source than as a textbook.

David J. Pollard is university director in engineering education and training, University of Surrey.