Broaching is a
machining process that uses a toothed tool, called a
broach, to remove material. There are two main types of broaching:
linear and
rotary. In linear broaching, which is the more common process, the broach is run linearly against a surface of the workpiece to effect the cut. Linear broaches are used in a
broaching machine, which is also sometimes shortened to
broach. In rotary broaching, the broach is rotated and pressed into the workpiece to cut an axis symmetric shape. A rotary broach is used in a
lathe or
screw machine. In both processes the cut is performed in one pass of the broach, which makes it very efficient.