Machining is a cornerstone of modern manufacturing. The process involves removing material from a solid workpiece to shape parts precisely.
Initially focused on metals, machining has expanded to encompass plastics and special materials, adapting to technological advancements and market needs.
Techniques such as drilling, snúa, cutting, milling, and grinding enable manufacturers to craft components accurately.
With the growing demand for swift and precise fabrication, machine shops have emerged as critical players in manufacturing.
Born during the Industrial Revolution, these specialized facilities have evolved significantly, leveraging cutting-edge technologies like CNC vinnsla to enhance productivity and meet diverse industry requirements.
Í þessari grein, we’ll explore the fascinating world of machine shops, delving into their history, types, tools, and pivotal roles across industries.
1. What is a Machine Shop?
A machine shop is a specialized facility where skilled workers use various machines and tools to manufacture, repair, and fabricate metal and plastic parts.
Serving as the backbone of modern manufacturing, machine shops play a crucial role in industries ranging from automotive and aerospace to medical and electronics.
Equipped with various precision tools and machines, these shops create components with high accuracy and reliability, ensuring that products meet the highest standards.


2. The Evolution of Machine Shops
Early Machine Shops
- Basic Tools and Manual Labor: In the early stages, machine shops were primarily equipped with basic tools like lathes, drills, and milling machines.
Most operations were manual, requiring skilled workers to operate the machinery. - Limited Production Capacity: Due to the reliance on manual labor and basic tools, production capacity was limited.
Machine shops primarily served local industries and produced a relatively small volume of goods.
Industrial Revolution
- Mechanization and Automation: The Industrial Revolution brought about significant changes in machine shops.
With the introduction of steam power and later electrical power, machinery became more mechanized and automated. This led to increased production capacity and efficiency. - Specialization and Division of Labor: As machine shops grew in size and complexity, specialization and division of labor became more common.
Workers were trained in specific tasks, allowing for greater precision and productivity.
Technological Advancements
- CNC Machinery: The advent of computer numerical control (CNC) machinery revolutionized machine shops.
CNC machines are programmed to perform specific tasks with high precision, reducing the need for manual labor and increasing production efficiency. - CAD/CAM Integration: The integration of computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software further enhanced the capabilities of machine shops.
Designers can create detailed models on computers, which are then translated into manufacturing instructions for CNC machines.
Modern Machine Shops
- Advanced Manufacturing Techniques: Modern machine shops employ a variety of advanced manufacturing techniques,
including additive manufacturing (3D prentun), subtractive manufacturing (milling and turning), and hybrid manufacturing processes. - Nákvæmni og nákvæmni: With the help of advanced machinery and software, modern machine shops can achieve unprecedented levels of precision and accuracy.
This is crucial for producing high-quality components and assemblies for industries such as aerospace, bifreiðar, og læknisfræðilegt. - Sustainability and Efficiency: Modern machine shops are also focused on sustainability and efficiency.
They use energy-efficient machinery, recycle materials, and implement lean manufacturing practices to reduce waste and increase productivity.
Framtíðarþróun
- Smart Manufacturing: The future of machine shops lies in smart manufacturing,
which combines advanced technology, data analytics, and automation to create a more flexible and responsive manufacturing system.


- Cyber-Physical Systems: Cyber-physical systems (CPS) will play a crucial role in smart manufacturing.
These systems integrate computing, networking, and physical processes to create a seamless and efficient manufacturing environment. - Customization and Personalization: As consumer demands shift towards customization and personalization, machine shops will need to adapt their manufacturing processes to meet these needs.
This will require a greater focus on flexibility and agility in production.
3. What Kind of Work Do Machinists Perform in a Machine Shop?
Machine shops are very important in many industries. They use different machine tools to meet various needs and requirements.
The manufacturing process allows machinists to create parts that are integral to countless products and applications.
From drill presses to lathe milling machines, the technology and techniques utilized are extensive and versatile.
Machine Operation
- Operating Various Machine Tools: Machinists are skilled in operating a range of machine tools,
such as lathes, milling machines, drilling machines, and grinding machines, for metal cutting, shaping, and processing. - Programming and Setup: In modern machine shops, machinists may need to use Computer Numerical Control (CNC) technology to program and set up machine tools for automated processing.
Maintenance and Repair
- Equipment Maintenance: Machinists are responsible for regularly inspecting and maintaining machinery within the shop to ensure its proper functioning and extend its lifespan.
- Troubleshooting: When equipment malfunctions, machinists quickly diagnose the issue and take appropriate measures to repair it.
Quality Control and Inspection
- Quality Inspection: Machinists use various measurement tools and equipment to check the dimensions, form, and surface quality of processed parts to ensure they meet design requirements.
- Process Control: During the processing stage, machinists monitor cutting parameters, such as cutting speed, feed rate, and depth of cut, to ensure processing quality and efficiency.
Process Improvement and Innovation
- Process Optimization: Machinists continuously learn and master new processing techniques and methods to improve processing efficiency and product quality.
- Technological Innovation: In machine shops, machinists can also participate in technological innovation and research and development efforts to enhance the shop’s technical capabilities.
Safety and Environmental Protection
- Adhering to Safety Regulations: Machinists strictly comply with shop safety regulations to ensure their own and others’ safety.
- Environmental Measures: During processing, machinists take appropriate environmental protection measures to reduce waste and pollutant emissions, protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development.
4. Key Machines in Machine Shops
Lathes
Lathes are essential for turning operations, where a workpiece rotates while a cutting tool shapes it.
They are used to create cylindrical parts, such as shafts, skrúfur, og runna. Modern lathes can perform multiple operations, including drilling, Leiðinlegt, and threading.
According to a 2022 report by Grand View Research, the global lathe market size was valued at USD 12.3 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) af 4.5% Frá 2022 til 2030.
Mills
Mills are used for milling operations, which involve removing material from a workpiece using a rotating cutter. It can produce flat surfaces, slots, and complex shapes.
They come in different types, such as vertical mills, horizontal mills, and CNC mills, which offer greater precision and automation.
The global milling machine market size was valued at USD 7.8 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 10.2 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 3.8% during the forecast period.
Drill Presses
Drill presses are used for drilling holes with high accuracy and consistency. They are equipped with a motor-driven spindle that holds the drill bit and a table to secure the workpiece.
Drill presses can also perform other operations like tapping and reaming. The global drill press market size was valued at USD 1.2 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.5% Frá 2022 til 2030.
Grinders
Grinders are used to remove material from a workpiece through abrasive cutting. They can achieve very fine finishes and tight tolerances.
Types of grinders include surface grinders, cylindrical grinders, and centerless grinders.
The global grinding machine market size was valued at USD 10.5 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 14.2 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period.
5. Various Tools in a Machine Shop
Cutting Tools
Cutting tools are designed to remove material from a workpiece. Common types include end mills, drills, taps, and reamers.
They are made from materials like high-speed steel (HSS), tungsten carbide, and ceramic, depending on the application.
The global cutting tools market size was valued at USD 22.5 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% Frá 2022 til 2030.
Hand Tools
Hand tools are essential for manual operations and include items like wrenches, pliers, hammers, and screwdrivers.
They are used for tasks such as assembly, disassembly, and basic maintenance.
The global hand tools market size was valued at USD 38.5 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 52.0 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period.
Measuring Instruments
Measuring instruments ensure that parts are manufactured to precise specifications. Common tools include calipers, míkrómetrar, gauges, and coordinate measuring machines (Cmms).
The global measurement instruments market size was valued at USD 12.3 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% Frá 2022 til 2030.
Power Tools
Power tools are electrically powered and used for a variety of tasks, such as cutting, Mala, and drilling. Examples include power drills, angle grinders, and band saws.
The global power tools market size was valued at USD 34.5 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 47.0 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period.
Work Holding Devices
Work-holding devices securely hold the workpiece in place during machining operations. Common types include vises, clamps, chucks, and collets.
The global workholding equipment market size was valued at USD 1.8 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.9% Frá 2022 til 2030.
Deburring Tools
Deburring tools are used to remove burrs and sharp edges from machined parts. They help improve the appearance and safety of the final product.
The global deburring tools market size was valued at USD 0.8 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.1% Frá 2022 til 2030.
Coolant Systems
Coolant systems are used to cool the workpiece and cutting tool during machining operations, reducing heat and extending tool life. Coolants can be oil-based, water-based, or synthetic.
The global industrial coolant market size was valued at USD 7.5 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 10.2 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period.
Sawing Machines
Sawing machines are used to cut metal and other materials into specific lengths and shapes. Types include band saws, circular saws, and cold saws.
The global sawing machines market size was valued at USD 2.5 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.7% Frá 2022 til 2030.
Specialized Tools
Specialized tools are designed for specific applications and may include items like broaches, honing tools, and ultrasonic cleaners.
The global specialized tools market size was valued at USD 4.5 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% Frá 2022 til 2030.
6. Types of Machine Shops
General Machine Shop
- Lýsing: A general machine shop provides a wide range of machining services, þar á meðal snúa, milling, borun, Mala, og fleira.
- Getu: Equipped with a variety of machine tools, they can handle a diverse range of materials and produce various components.
- Algeng forrit: Suitable for producing prototypes, small batches, or custom parts for a wide range of industries.
Precision Machine Shop
- Lýsing: Precision machine shops specialize in high-precision machining, requiring extreme accuracy and precision in their operations.
- Getu: They often use advanced machine tools and measurement equipment to achieve tight tolerances and high surface finishes.
- Algeng forrit: Ideal for producing components for industries such as aerospace, Læknisfræðilegt, and defense, where precision is critical.
Tool and Die Machine Shop
- Lýsing: Tool and die machine shops focus on manufacturing tools, deyr, and molds used in mass production processes.
- Getu: They specialize in creating intricate and precise tools and dies for injection molding, die-casting, and other manufacturing processes.
- Algeng forrit: Essential for industries like automotive, Rafeindatækni, and consumer products that rely on injection molding and other molding processes.
Production Machine Shop
- Lýsing: Production machine shops are designed for high-volume manufacturing, producing large quantities of identical or similar parts.
- Getu: Equipped with automated and semi-automated machinery, they can efficiently produce large batches of parts with consistent quality.
- Algeng forrit: Suitable for industries that require high-volume production, such as automotive, appliances, og iðnaðarbúnaður.
Prototype Machine Shop
- Lýsing: Prototype machine shops specialize in creating prototypes and models for new products or designs.
- Getu: They use a combination of manual and automated machining techniques to quickly and accurately produce prototypes.
- Algeng forrit: Ideal for industries that need to test and validate new designs before full-scale production, such as automotive, Aerospace, and consumer electronics.
Job Shop
- Lýsing: Job shops are flexible machine shops that can handle a wide range of machining tasks and materials.
- Getu: They typically have a variety of machine tools and can accommodate small to medium-sized batches of custom parts.
- Algeng forrit: Suitable for industries that require a mix of different types of machining tasks, such as aerospace, Vörn, og læknisfræðilegt.
Specialty Machine Shop
- Lýsing: Specialty machine shops focus on a specific type of machining or material processing.
- Getu: They have specialized equipment and expertise to handle unique or difficult-to-machine materials, such as special metals, Keramik, or plastics.
- Algeng forrit: Ideal for industries with specific machining needs, such as oil and gas, nuclear, and aerospace.
7. Inspection and Quality Control in Machine Shops
Inspection Processes
- Raw Material Inspection
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- Before raw materials enter the shop, rigorous inspections are conducted to ensure they meet production requirements and quality standards.
- Inspection covers key indicators such as material specifications, composition, styrkur, and hardness.
- For imported materials, relevant quality certifications and documents are verified.
- Fyrsta greinarskoðun
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- Prior to mass production, the first article is inspected to verify compliance with design and technical specifications.
- First article inspection typically includes checks on appearance, dimensions, virkni, and performance.
- Inspection results are accurately documented, reviewed, and approved to ensure consistent quality throughout production batches.
- In-Process Inspection
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- Critical parameters and product characteristics are inspected at each stage of the manufacturing process.
- Inspection methods and standards are tailored to the specific characteristics and requirements of each process.
- Review and analysis of in-process inspection results facilitate adjustments to process parameters, ensuring smooth progression to the next stage.
- Final Inspection
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- A comprehensive inspection of the product’s final performance and quality is conducted.
- Inspection items include appearance quality, dimensional and form accuracy, operational performance, safety performance, og fleira.
- Final inspection results are thoroughly documented, evaluated, and approved.
- Outgoing Quality Control
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- A comprehensive inspection is performed on completed products, with a certificate of inspection and conformity issued.
- Only qualified products are released for sale, ensuring customers receive high-quality products.
Quality Control Measures
- Equipment Management and Maintenance
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- All equipment is thoroughly checked and calibrated before production begins.
- Regular maintenance and servicing, including cleaning, lubrication, and tightening, ensure equipment operates smoothly and prolongs its lifespan.
- Advanced measurement equipment and tools are used to monitor quality changes during production.
- Personnel Training and Management
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- Employees receive quality awareness and skills training, understanding the importance of quality control and mastering good production operating skills.
- Regular training and assessments enhance employees’ quality awareness and skill levels.
- A comprehensive management system and procedures ensure employees operate as required and promptly identify and rectify issues.
- Environmental Management
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- The shop floor is kept clean, dry, and organized with designated areas for products, tools, and raw materials.
- Environmental factors such as temperature and humidity are controlled to minimize their impact on product quality.
- Safety operating procedures are adhered to, ensuring employee safety and product quality.
- Process Parameter Setting and Monitoring
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- Process parameters are reasonably set based on product characteristics and requirements.
- Real-time monitoring and adjustment of process parameters ensure stable and consistent product quality.
- Changes in process parameters are recorded and analyzed to promptly identify and resolve issues.
- Defective Product Handling and Prevention
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- Nonconforming products identified during inspections are marked, segregated, and disposed of.
- The causes of nonconforming products are analyzed, and corrective and preventive measures are taken.
- A system for defective product statistics and analysis is established to continuously improve product quality.
- Quality Record-Keeping and Data Analysis
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- Detailed quality data, including inspection records and nonconforming product records, are maintained.
- Quality data is statistically analyzed to identify potential quality issues and areas for improvement.
- Quality data is used to formulate improvement and preventive measures, with continuous tracking of their effectiveness.
8. What are the different machining types and techniques offered by a machine shop?
Hot Processing Types
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- Principle: Pour molten metal into a mold and let it cool and solidify to obtain the desired shape of the workpiece.
- Umsókn: Suitable for manufacturing complex-shaped and large-sized components, such as engine blocks and housings.
- Forging
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- Principle: Apply pressure to deform metal in the plastic state to obtain the required shape and size of the workpiece.
- Umsókn: Suitable for manufacturing components with high mechanical performance requirements and simple shapes, such as shafts and gears.
- Suðu
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- Principle: Use high temperature to melt metal and connect it to form a strong joint.
- Umsókn: Suitable for connecting various metal components, such as steel structures and pipelines.
Cold Processing Types
- Turning
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- Principle: Use a lathe and cutting tool to cut a rotating workpiece.
- Umsókn: Suitable for processing cylindrical parts, such as shafts and sleeves.
Turning can produce various shapes such as inner and outer cylindrical surfaces, inner and outer conical surfaces, end faces, gróp, and threads.
- Milling
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- Principle: Cut the workpiece surface with a rotating cutting tool.
- Umsókn: Suitable for processing complex shapes such as planes, concave and convex surfaces, og gírar.
Milling includes plane milling, vertical milling, end milling, gear milling, and contour milling.
- Drilling
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- Principle: Use a rotating drill bit to cut material on the workpiece to form a hole of the required diameter and depth.
- Umsókn: Widely used in manufacturing, smíði, and maintenance fields, such as drilling and hole expansion.
- Mala
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- Principle: Use a grinding wheel or other abrasive tools to process the workpiece by removing the excess layer on its surface through the rotation of the grinding wheel and the cutting action of abrasive grains.
- Umsókn: Suitable for processing high-precision and high-surface-quality parts, such as bearings and gears.
Grinding can produce various shapes such as outer cylinders, inner cylinders, planes, and threads.
- Planing
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- Principle: Use a planer to perform linear reciprocating cutting on the workpiece.
- Umsókn: Mainly used for processing planes (including horizontal planes, vertical planes, and inclined planes), and also widely used for processing straight grooves, such as right-angle grooves, dovetail grooves, and T-slots.
- Boring
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- Principle: Use a boring tool to perform cutting inside the workpiece.
- Umsókn: Mainly used for processing internal circular holes in workpieces, such as cylinder holes and bearing holes. Boring can achieve high accuracy and flatness.
- Slotting
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- Principle: Use a slotting tool to perform linear reciprocating cutting inside the workpiece.
- Umsókn: Mainly used for processing the internal surfaces of small-batch parts, such as internal keyways, internal square holes, internal polygonal holes, and keyholes.
Other Processing Types
- Electrical Machining
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- Including electrolytic machining, electrical discharge machining, o.fl., using electrical energy for processing.
- Umsókn: Suitable for processing difficult-to-cut materials and complex shapes.
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- Use a laser beam for cutting, suðu, borun, and other processing.
- Umsókn: Suitable for high-precision and high-efficiency processing needs.
- Waterjet Machining
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- Use high-pressure water flow for cutting processing.
- Umsókn: Suitable for cutting various materials, such as metals and nonmetals.
9. The Impact of Machine Shops on Various Industries
Bifreiðar Iðnaður
Machine shops are indispensable in the automotive industry, where precision parts and components are essential for the performance and safety of vehicles.
From engine blocks and transmissions to brake systems and steering components, machine shops produce these parts with high accuracy and reliability.
They also support the development of new technologies, such as electric and hybrid vehicles, by manufacturing components like electric motors, battery housings, and powertrain systems.
Aerospace Industry
Í geimferðariðnaðinum, machine shops are critical for the production of aircraft parts and components that must meet stringent safety and performance standards.
These parts often require complex geometries and materials, such as titanium and composites, which can only be machined with specialized equipment and expertise.
Machine shops provide the precision and reliability needed to ensure the safety and efficiency of aircraft.
Læknisiðnaður
The medical industry relies heavily on machine shops for the production of precision medical devices and implants.
From surgical instruments and prosthetics to diagnostic equipment and imaging systems, machine shops deliver high-quality parts and components that meet the rigorous standards of the medical field.
They also support the development of new medical technologies, such as minimally invasive surgical tools and advanced imaging systems.
Energy Industry
In the energy industry, machine shops play a vital role in the production of equipment and components for power generation and distribution.
This includes turbines, generators, transformers, and other critical components that ensure a reliable supply of electricity.
Machine shops also support the development of renewable energy technologies, such as wind turbines and solar panels, by manufacturing precision parts and assemblies.
Electronics Industry
The electronics industry benefits from machine shops through the production of precision components for electronic devices.
From semiconductors and integrated circuits to connectors and enclosures, machine shops deliver high-quality parts that are essential for the performance and reliability of electronic products.
They also support the development of new technologies, such as 5G communication systems and artificial intelligence, by manufacturing precision components and assemblies.
Byggingariðnaður
Machine shops contribute to the construction industry by producing precision parts and components for heavy equipment and machinery.
This includes parts for cranes, excavators, bulldozers, and other construction vehicles that are essential for building infrastructure and developing communities.
Machine shops also support the development of new construction technologies, such as automated and remote-controlled machinery, by manufacturing precision components and assemblies.
Defense Industry
The defense industry relies on machine shops for the production of precision weapons and military equipment.
From firearms and ammunition to armored vehicles and missile systems, machine shops deliver high-quality parts and components that meet the rigorous standards of the defense field.
They also support the development of new defense technologies, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and directed energy weapons, by manufacturing precision components and assemblies.
10. Advantages of CNC Machine Shops
CNC (Tölvutala stjórn) machine shops have revolutionized the manufacturing industry by offering unparalleled precision, skilvirkni, og fjölhæfni.
Here are some of the key advantages of using CNC machine shops:
High Precision and Accuracy
CNC machines operate based on pre-programmed instructions, ensuring that each part is produced with extreme accuracy and consistency.
This level of precision is crucial for industries like aerospace and medicine, where even minor deviations can have significant consequences.
The ability to maintain tight tolerances means that parts fit together perfectly, reducing the need for additional adjustments and minimizing waste.
Increased Efficiency and Productivity
CNC machines can run 24/7 without breaks, significantly increasing productivity. Once a program is set, the machine can produce multiple identical parts with minimal human intervention.
This continuous operation reduces downtime and accelerates the production process.
Að auki, CNC machines can perform complex operations that would be difficult or impossible to achieve manually, further enhancing efficiency.
Hagkvæmni
While the initial investment in CNC machines can be high, the long-term benefits often outweigh the costs.
Reduced labor costs, minimized material waste, and increased production speed all contribute to cost savings.
CNC machines also reduce the need for manual adjustments and rework, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
Versatility and Flexibility
CNC machines can handle a wide range of materials, including metals, plast, og samsetningar.
They can also perform various operations, such as milling, snúa, borun, and grinding, making them highly versatile.
This flexibility allows machine shops to take on a diverse array of projects and adapt quickly to changing customer demands.
Consistency and Reproducibility
Once a CNC program is created, it can be used to produce an unlimited number of identical parts.
This consistency ensures that every component meets the same high standards, reducing the variability that can occur with manual operations.
Reproducibility is particularly important for mass production and for maintaining quality control in large-scale manufacturing.
Improved Safety
CNC machines are designed with safety features that protect operators from the hazards associated with traditional machining methods.
Automated processes reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, creating a safer working environment.
Að auki, CNC machines can be programmed to stop automatically if an issue is detected, preventing potential damage to the machine or the workpiece.
Enhanced Design Capabilities
CNC machines can create complex and intricate designs that would be challenging or impossible to produce manually.
With the help of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, engineers and designers can create detailed 3D models and convert them into CNC programs.
This capability opens up new possibilities for innovation and creativity in product design.
Better Quality Control
CNC machines can integrate with quality control systems, allowing for real-time monitoring and adjustment of the production process.
Advanced sensors and inspection tools can detect and correct issues early, ensuring that each part meets the required specifications.
This level of quality control helps to minimize defects and improve overall product quality.
Sveigjanleiki
CNC machine shops can easily scale their operations to meet varying production demands.
Whether a project requires a few custom parts or thousands of identical components, CNC machines can handle the workload efficiently.
This scalability makes CNC machine shops well-suited for both small-scale and large-scale manufacturing.
Reduced Lead Times
The speed and efficiency of CNC machines can significantly reduce lead times.
Automated processes and continuous operation allow for faster production cycles, enabling machine shops to deliver parts more quickly.
This is particularly beneficial for industries with tight deadlines and high demand.
Umhverfisávinningur
CNC machines can help reduce environmental impact by minimizing material waste and optimizing energy usage.
Precise cutting and efficient operation mean that less material is wasted, and energy consumption is reduced.
Some CNC machines also incorporate eco-friendly features, such as coolant recycling systems and energy-efficient motors.
11. Niðurstaða
Machine shops are the heart of modern manufacturing, providing the precision and reliability needed to create high-quality components across various industries.
Whether you need custom parts, Framleiðsla með mikla rúmmál, or specialized tools, a well-equipped and experienced machine shop can meet your needs.
By understanding the capabilities and services offered by different types of machine shops,
you can choose the right partner for your project, ensuring that your products meet the highest standards of quality and performance.
Why choose DEZE Machine Shop?
DEZE is your partner in achieving customized CNC machining and precision casting solutions.
With state-of-the-art technology, extensive material expertise, Og skuldbinding um gæði, DEZE can help you bring your ideas to life.


Whether you need a single prototype or a large production run, DEZE is here to support you every step of the way.
Partner with DEZE for your next manufacturing project and experience the difference in quality and service.
If you have any questions or are ready to start your project, don’t hesitate to Hafðu samband.