Can gears be cut on a shaper? Evaluate the statement: “Gears can be cut on a shaper.” Consider attachments and special cutters used on shaping machines.

Introduction / Context:
While dedicated gear machines (hobbers, gear shapers) are preferred, conventional shapers equipped with the right attachments can generate gear teeth, especially for small batches or maintenance work.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Use of a gear shaping attachment or a rack-type form tool on a standard shaper.
• Indexing or generating motion provided via dividing head and linkage.
• Accuracy needs are moderate, not ultra-precision production.

Concept / Approach:
Gear tooth profiles can be generated by relative rolling motion between a cutter (often a pinion- or rack-shaped tool) and the blank. A shaper can replicate this through reciprocating motion plus timed indexing or generating linkage.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Mount gear attachment and align a rack-type cutter on the shaper.Index or generate each tooth space via dividing head/linkage.Reciprocate the ram to cut successive tooth spaces until the gear is complete.

Verification / Alternative check:
Workshop practice texts show examples of gear cutting on shapers for one-off and repair jobs.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• (B) is too restrictive; shapers can generate forms with attachments.
• (C) Involute forms are achievable with proper generating methods.
• (D) Material is not restricted to plastics; steels and bronzes can be cut.

Common Pitfalls:
Expecting mass-production accuracy/throughput on a general shaper; inadequate indexing leading to pitch errors.

Final Answer:
Agree — with a gear shaping attachment or rack-type cutter, gears can be cut