Abstract: A machine tool is provided comprising a base, a slide assembly attached to the base for supporting a tool and translating the tool along an axis, and a workpiece holder attached to the base. At least one of the slide assembly and the workpiece holder are movable laterally with respect to the axis. Means are provided for aligning the slide assembly and the workpiece holder in a desired lateral relationship. A method of aligning a machine tool is also provided.

Abstract: A method for locating a work piece for multiple treatment operations includes identifying six-point datum positions upon a work piece, defining six-point datum contacts on a work piece holder and securing said six-point datum positions upon said work piece into contact with said six-point datum contacts on said work piece holder. A work piece datum transfer apparatus includes a work piece shuttle having a six-point datum nest defining its position in three dimensions corresponding to a work piece six-point datum nest and means for locking said work piece shuttle into contact with said work piece shuttle to transfer said datum nest from said work piece to said shuttle.

Abstract: A method for coating a shroud assembly is provided that includes inserting the shroud segment into a clamping fixture such that at least two edges of the shroud are masked by the clamping fixture, mounting the clamping fixture into a spraying fixture such that the shroud segment is oriented in approximately the same orientation as a sprayer, and moving the sprayer and the spraying fixture relative to each other at predetermined rates apply a layer of coating to the shroud segment.