Sites Mean Business

The following sites offer tools and information useful for running the business end of a machine shop.

Business Industrial Network (BIN) (www.bin95.com): The BIN is a suite of services (some commercial) and information regarding several technical, machining-related topics. These include Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and PLC network diagnostics, preventative maintenance, and others. Its “Articles” section contains several useful items ranging from more PLC data to information about getting your own Web site started. The “Resource” section of BIN is substantial and thorough. This is one of those sites that is worth just diving into and playing “what’s this do?” until your mouse breaks.

Engineers Edge (EE) (www.engineersedge.com): Engineers Edge follows the theme of a few research- and resource-rich sites to serve engineers looking for product, process or information solutions. Sadly, there are only a few sites that match this level of content and functionality. Happily, there is this one. Brilliantly laid-out and functionally proficient (fast, clean and elegant), this site contains loads of design utilities and tables, specifications and charts, and tools and calculators. Forums, jobs directories and an extensive links section round out a fantastic site for manufacturers of all walks.

Government Liquidation (www.govliquidation.com): Government Liquidation says it is the exclusive partner of the U.S. Department of Defense for the sale of surplus property. The site helps surplus buyers find and purchase available assets from the “gub’mint” through an online auction model. And these cats aren’t just “vaporware”:They claim to manage more than 2 million square feet of actual warehouse space and to maintain outposts on more than 150 military bases throughout the world. There are several equipment categories, with industrial machinery and equipment, electrical and electronic equipment, furniture and office equipment, and building materials hitting closest to the metalworking professional’s heart.

TechSolve (www.techsolve.org): A Midwest metalworking resource has adopted a new identity, and it may be worth a bookmark if you’re interested in another research-friendly Web site. TechSolve is the new name of the former Institute of Advanced Manufacturing Sciences (IAMS). It is a non-profit, offering myriad services to help small and large manufacturers improve their processes. The updated Web presence offers access to lots of relevant info, products and links, including strong machining, training and employment support. TechSolve is set up to support your business, and it may offer a viable option as you look to decipher machining mysteries.