November 2003 Issue

November 2003

Globally Integrated Machining

To serve global customers, this company manufactures plastic injection molds on a global basis. It does this not by outsourcing to overseas shops but rather by partnering with the right ones. The key is consistency from mold to mold, continent to continent.

Features

Featured articles from the November 2003 issue of Modern Machine Shop

15 Nov 2003

A New Mechanism For Tool Changes

After 3 years of lab tests, this tooling manfacturer has developed an entirely new type of spindle cartridge that addresses some drawbacks of the conventional design. The company's gas spring clamping system uses gas pressure to exert gripping force on the toolholder.

1 Nov 2003

Technology And Trends In CAM Software

Here is a summary of some important capabilities of programming software today.

Vertical Machining Centers 1 Nov 2003

Speeding To Success

Using a company-wide mantra of faster, faster, faster, some innovative processing techniques and a rationalized deployment of personnel, this Detroit mold maker is snatching success from the jaws of competition.

1 Nov 2003

The Difference The Software Makes

Looking back, this shop can see clearly what the clues were that it was time for the software to change.

1 Nov 2003

Basic Math For Ballnose Tools

The ballnose end mill is a special sort of tool. Its ability to mill up and down the contours of complex surfaces makes it invaluable to mold shops and other makers of 3D forms. And yet, the tool is lacking in a capability one might take for granted in other cutters: the ability to machine a flat surface.

15 Nov 2003

Carbide Worm Screw System Improves Rotary Table Life

Mounted in a horizontal or vertical plane, rotary tables can be used to add fourth and fifth axis capability to conventional three-axis CNC machining centers. This rotary table manufacturer has developed an actuation mechanism that, according to the company, significantly increases the useful life of its rotary tables.