Abstract: A machine tool way cover and method for manufacturing same with reduced material and labor cost. The present invention is machine tool way cover which is adapted to expand and contract over a transmission platform of the machine tool so as to protect the machinery contained therein from solid and liquid contaminants generated or expelled from the machine tool. A plurality of individual boxes are telescopingly connected to form the expandable way cover and each includes a back panel attached to an enclosure. The enclosure includes a plurality of tabs which are matingly received into apertures provided in the back panel and which are then bent perpendicular to the enclosure to hold the back panel firmly thereto. In order to prevent coolant and other liquid matter from passing between the back panel and the enclosure, an adhesive sealing strip is applied over the apertures of the back panel before the tabs of the enclosure are inserted therethrough.

Abstract: A machine tool way cover to provide protection to a moveable machine tool which is provided with an interlocking feature to prevent misalignment or skewing of the actual way cover. The present invention provides a dramatic improvement over prior art machine tool coverings and way covers in that it eliminates the need for individual segments of the machine tool way cover to be manufactured to extremely tight physical tolerances by providing interlocking channels at the base of each way cover segment. The channels provide grooves within which the channels of smaller segments actually move as the machine tool and machine tool way cover move in and out. By providing such an interlocking mechanism, the machine tool way cover avoids becoming misaligned and inoperative even when objects or personnel impart substantial loads to the way cover.