Explain the principal parts of the shaper and illustrate with neat sketches?

A shaper is a machine tool used for shaping metal or other materials by removing material from a workpiece using a cutting tool. The principal parts of a shaper include:

1. Base: The base is the foundation of the shaper and provides support for the other parts of the machine.

2. Column: The column is a vertical structure that supports the ram and guides its movement up and down.

3. Ram: The ram is a horizontal structure that holds the cutting tool and moves back and forth to shape the workpiece.

4. Cross rail: The cross rail is a horizontal beam that supports the ram and allows it to move across the workpiece.

5. Tool head: The tool head is attached to the ram and holds the cutting tool in place.

6. Table: The table is a flat surface that supports the workpiece and moves back and forth under the cutting tool.

7. Clapper box: The clapper box is a mechanism that allows the cutting tool to move freely in one direction and lock in the other direction.

8. Feed mechanism: The feed mechanism controls the movement of the table and the cutting tool, allowing for precise shaping of the workpiece.

Illustration:

1. Base
2. Column
3. Ram
4. Cross rail
5. Tool head
6. Table
7. Clapper box
8. Feed mechanism

[Sketches of the shaper parts can be included here for better visualization]