January 2012 Issue

January

January 2012

Understanding MTConnect Agents and Adapters
Cover Story

Understanding MTConnect Agents and Adapters

MTConnect agents and their corresponding device adapters are simply small computer programs that work together so that MTConnect can make shop equipment and networks more readily connectible. In a nutshell, adapters enable existing shopfloor devices “to speak MTConnect,” and agents enable MTConnect messages and data files to be transmitted across a network to MTConnect-compatible applications.

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Features

Featured articles from the January 2012 issue of Modern Machine Shop

Now Online: 2012 Top Shops Benchmarking Survey

Now Online: 2012 Top Shops Benchmarking Survey

Our second annual benchmarking program offers all types of machining facilities the chance to see how they rate against similar operations. Take part in the online survey that has been extended to run through February 29.

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4 Success Factors for Hard Turning

4 Success Factors for Hard Turning

A rigid machine and hard cutting edge are the beginning. Other considerations relate to system rigidity and keeping the cutting force steady.

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Reaming Application Illustrates True Cost of Cutting Tools
Holemaking

Reaming Application Illustrates True Cost of Cutting Tools

Cutting tools have two costs: purchase price and combined cost of all time, effort and extra steps required for a particular tool.

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A Machinist’s Guide to Toolholder Maintenance
Toolholders

A Machinist’s Guide to Toolholder Maintenance

Techniks’ “Machinist’s Guide to Toolholder Maintenance” can be a handy reference for inexperienced machinists and shop veterans alike.

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Which Five-Axis Machine for Mold Makers?  
Five-Axis

Which Five-Axis Machine for Mold Makers?  

This Chicago-area mold shop compares tilting-spindle and tilting-table five-axis machines.

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Deep Holes with a Carbide Microdrill That Flexes
Cutting Tools

Deep Holes with a Carbide Microdrill That Flexes

These microdrills combine the advantages of HSS with those of solid carbide.

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A Few Interesting CNC-Related Websites

Here is a list of websites I frequently use to solve CNC-related problems and learn more about the subject.

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The Automated Shop Conference
The Automated Shop Conference
The Automated Shop Conference