Workholding Facilitates Fast Changeovers for Robotic Surface Finishing Systems Manufacturer
By: Frank Burke, Owner, Burke & Towner, Ltd.
This manufacturer finds value in modular workholding technology to speed production of toolholders and other components used in its automated surface finishing systems.
In-Machine Probing Possibilities for VTLs
Edited by Derek Korn
A manufacturer of vertical turning centers uses a “push/pull” optoelectronic probe with custom bracket to enable its machines to perform effective, in-process measurement of shafts and related automotive components.
#horizontal-and-vertical-lathes
Eastec 2023 Product Preview
Edited by Angela Osborne
Production Machining highlights some of the upcoming products that will be displayed at the Eastec manufacturing technology series event May 16-18, 2023, in West Springfield, Massachusetts.
Gardner Business Index: Precision Machining April 2023
By: Jan Schafer
The Gardner Business Index: Precision Machining carried into April the trend from March, moving from flat into contraction, landing at an index of 48.9.
#columns
Repeatability and Rigidity Are Key for Quick-Change Swiss Tooling
By: Derek Korn
A rotary wedge clamping system is said to enable this two-piece, modular tooling system for Swiss-types to offer the performance of a solid tool.
#techbrief
Roles of Women in Manufacturing Series: Quality: Anisa Ali and Lisa Carrothers
By: Carli Kistler-Miller
Two women share their journeys to manufacturing and quality, and give advice to anyone seeking a career in manufacturing.
#pmpa
Video as Part of the PM Brand
By: Derek Korn
“Magazines” are more than “magazines” these days. Here is how we’re leveraging video not only to support articles but to present new technologies, concepts and practices.
#columns
The Advantages of Turning and Grinding on One Machine Platform
By: Derek Korn
Instead of using a dedicated grinding machine or an outside grinding vendor to achieve very high surface finishes, a machine that can hard turn and grind can reduce WIP and speed part completion while taking up minimal floor space.
#techbrief
Rust Season Is Here: Take Care of Your Precision-Machined Parts
By: Wayne Siefert, President, Green Packaging, Inc.
To prevent corrosion from developing on the surfaces of freshly machined parts, it is crucial to create a barrier on the parts’ surfaces so moisture and oxygen don’t reach them.
#techbrief
5-Axis Machining Centers Transform Medical Swiss Shop
By: Lori Beckman
Traditionally a Swiss machine shop, Swiss Precision Machining Inc. discovers a five-axis machining center that has led the company to substantial growth.
Growing Pains: A Process for Cutting Ties with Long-Time Employees
By: Jim Carr, President and CEO, CARR Machine & Tool
When your business is growing but a certain employee is not, it may be time to let them go. However, first stepping the employee through a process that includes warning and conversation with them is crucial.
#columns
Precision Ground Barstock: How It Is Manufactured, Benefits to Your Shop
By: Miles Free
Understanding the benefits provided by precision centerless ground barstock can help you avoid false economy and optimize the work you quote by maximizing benefits to your manufacturing process and customer.
#pmpa
Meeting Stringent Cleaning Goals With Modular Ultrasonic System
By: Doris Schulz, owner of Schulz Presse and journalist
A knee implant manufacturer implements an advanced cleaning system that meets its tight cleaning requirements, including documenting, validating and tracing the entire cleaning process.
Contest Seeks Innovative End-Use 3D Printed Parts
By: Stephanie Hendrixson
The Cool Parts Showcase is looking for 3D printed components that are currently in use or show promise as future solutions.
#additive
Applying a Healthy Approach to Employee Investment
By: Lori Beckman
Service Center Metals’ on-site health center offers its employees and their families free same-day health care and, in return, the employer is gaining many benefits including a healthier workforce and attracting potential employees.
#basics #workforcedevelopment
Getting More Production From Swiss Turning Centers
Buying a new CNC Swiss turning center is a substantial investment. For the best return, look closely for capabilities that enable the best utilization of the machine.
How Small Machine Shops Can Fight Supply Chain Problems
By: Sandy Moffat, Chief Market Officer, CNC Software, LLC
Supply chain disruptions are still presenting challenges in manufacturing. This article examines the effects on aerospace, automotive and medical industries. It also covers ways that machine shops can be successful securing work despite the challenges created by the supply chain.
#columns
Overcoming 3 Common Challenges With Automated Particle Counting
By: Peter Feamster, product management director, Jomesa North America
Facing difficulties while performing particle analysis is normal but should not be discouraging. Here are some ways to handle the most prevalent issues that can arise.
#techbrief
Why Are We Writing About a Shop Making Custom Baseball Bats?
By: Derek Korn
I recently learned about a 153-year-old manufacturer that has produced billions upon billions of precision, metal pins which started another business making one-off wooden baseball bats. (Like I asked it to do for me and you’ll see at this year’s Precision Machining Technology Show). Here I explain why it’s worth the time to read that article.
#basics #columns #PMTS
It’s Showtime!
By: Derek Korn
The 12th edition of the biennial Precision Machining Technology Show starts today. What might you discover there? What might I discover there?