April 2000 Issue
April 2000
Features
Featured articles from the latest issue of Modern Machine Shop
Getting The Job Done
This computer-aided manufacturing software package that generates simultaneous two- through five-axis NC tool paths and provides parametric 3D modeling. All geometric modeling and tool path functions are fully associative.
Read MoreIncreased Machinability And Improved Finish Of Powdered Metal Parts
Powdered metal components, often used in automotive and other applications, are inherently porous. Problems encountered when dealing with powdered metals include machining issues such as chatter, which can diminish tool life; and blowouts or blisters, which can affect surface finishes. But old methods of preventing these problems have traditionally led to inconsistent results.
Read MoreWhat's Possible At 10,000 RPM
High-value work doesn’t have to demand a high-cost machine tool.
Read MoreToward A Truly Open Manufacturing Environment
Modular systemization is revolutionizing machine tool control. CNCs are only the beginning.
Read MorePC CAM Selection In An Evolving Market
In a mature market, choosing the right software for the personal computers you use to create programs for your CNC machine tools can be tricky. Here are some guidelines to help you find the software that best meets your needs.
Read MoreHigh-Performance Gantry-Style Machining Center Builds In Accuracy
To gain control of the manufacturing process and tighten up production times, this company purchased a novel gantry-type machining center that features an integrated rotary table and a powerful right-angle head.
Read MoreProbing For Process Improvement
Advances in machine accuracy and probing technology make on-machine inspection a powerful tool for automating and speeding part processing.
Read MoreUnique's Approach To Mold Making
This Canadian mold making shop, Unique Mould Makers, is aptly named. Virtually every multi-cavity injection mold set made for the manufacture of caps, closures, vials and other packaging applications is indeed unique. One might think that automation and standardization would not be of interest to such a shop. Think again!
Read MoreFor High Speed And High Productivity, Keep Cool And Stay Calm
Machine tool builders have developed methods to cool off spindles and damp machine vibration for stable machining at higher spindle speeds and faster feed rates.
Read MoreTrends That Drive Cutting Tool Development
Cutting tools have highly engineered coatings and geometries for all types of manufacturing methods and materials.
Read MoreBolt-On Microfinishing
The process of microfinishing or superfinishing, as it's also known, is finding wider application in metalworking. Demands for better performance in rotating components coupled with tighter manufacturing tolerances is leading shops to look at microfinishing as a final process step to achieve low and sub-micron finishes on ground parts.
Read MoreUpdated Workholding Improves Turning Performance And Speed
Many shops maintain old workholding on their lathes, and there is a loss of opportunity to increase productivity and repeatability. Workholding tends to be an afterthought. In reality, workholding can increase performance a great deal.
Read MoreCNC Robotics And Automation: Knowing When To Say 'When'
In metalworking, a shop's move from one level of automation to the next can be a business-busting decision if badly timed. This article looks at what you should consider when taking the next step toward automating an operation.
Read MoreReal-Time Data Collection For Real-Time Customer Response
Keeping track of orders, materials, machines, tools, processes, employees and costs is an enormous task for any shop. That is why shopfloor management software has become a major factor in manufacturing operations.
Read MoreAutomating EDM Electrode Design For Mold Making
Many EDM electrode design steps are being automated, making electrode production faster and easier. Developments promise to streamline situations where EDMing is unavoidable, as well as make EDM attractive as the most efficient machining process in many cases where complex mold shapes are involved.
Read MoreA Radically Different Production Plant
From the outside, it looks somewhat like a resort hotel. From the inside, it isn’t set up like any job shop you’ve probably ever seen.
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