January 2009 ISSUE

COVER STORY

In-House CMM: An Efficient Choice

MAPCO Precision Machining, a Canton, Mich.-based CNC parts manufacturing business, agrees that having its own CMM capability is an essential part of contract manufacturing today.

FEATURES

A New Year's Resolution

Like millions of Americans, many of us make New Year’s resolutions to lose weight, stop smoking or spend more time with family. Have you made any resolutions as we enter 2009 to improve the health of your business?Do you have all the answers to the problems that face your business on a daily basis?PMPA’s mission to "lead progressive members toward global competitiveness and sustainable success. " includes helping your company.

Be Greedy In This Economy

Don't let the tough economy get you down. Take advantage of it, instead.

Create A Road Map For 2009 At PMPAs

As we know all too well, 2008 was one of the most challenging years in recent memory, not only professionally, but also personally. Creating a road map to help our companies successfully navigate the challenges before us—as well as those that lie ahead—is the goal of Management Update 2009. With GPS-like precision, the Management Update Committee has selected speakers from a talented pool of professionals to help us address the most important areas of concern for any business leader.

Engineering Center For Medical Customers

PM interviews Steve Lesnewich, from Doosan Infracore, about the company's new Medical Engineering Center.

Family Firms--Not To Be Ignored

When I grew up—way back in the mid-20th century—everyone aspired to have a job with a major national publicly traded company. If you could land a job with one of the big boys, you had a guaranteed job for life. General Motors.

Measurement

In-House CMM: An Efficient Choice

MAPCO Precision Machining, a Canton, Mich.-based CNC parts manufacturing business, agrees that having its own CMM capability is an essential part of contract manufacturing today.

Measurement

Measurement Technologies Step Up to Production Machining Needs

The increasing capabilities of high-production turning equipment such as Swiss machines have also raised expectations for inspection technology. Determining the best solution requires a close look at the application and the needs of the end user.

Toolholders

New Equipment Gives Students A Learning Boost

Haimer USA entered a partnership agreement with the Institute for Manufacturing Productivity at York Technical College (Rock Hill, S.C.). By supplying equipment to the school, the company gives students, and those already working in the manufacturing industry who receive training at York, exposure to processes that can make them and their employers more successful.

Cutting Tools

Pigging Out: High Feed Machining Techniques For Small Cutters

Small machining applications—those relying upon tool diameters smaller than 2. 0 mm—are continuing to grow based upon both consumer demand and developing machining technology. It’s apparent that the trend to produce ever-tinier electronic goods will continue (smaller cell phones, minute keyboards, plastic ear buds, and so on); all require small and precise mold insert creation.