Standardization Leans the Way to High-Mix Automation
An increasingly digitalized, lean manufacturing process begins with a common selection of cutting tools and five-axis machining fixtures.
#leanmanufacturing #topshops
LATEST ARTICLE
Machine Shop Scale-Up Mirrors Past Success
An aerospace manufacturer doubles down on a subset of work and a knack for turning shopfloor problem solving into marketable new products.
#topshops
Dillon Carbinite Coating Improves Jaw Gripping Strength
Dillon’s Carbinite is a wear-resistant, textured carbide coating that’s designed to improve grip on workpieces.
Adjusting Supply Chains in U.S. Manufacturing
As the novel coronavirus presents challenges for manufacturers and new opportunities for suppliers, manufacturers should not miss the chance to strengthen their supply chains.
When Machining Lights Out Leaves Nothing Out
A Top Shops honors program winner strives to ensure every part crosses paths with a robot, cobot or pallet changer.
#topshops
Studer Laser System Efficiently Measures Small Batches
Studer’s laser measuring control system can generate thousands of measuring points for evaluation, even with the workpiece rotating, reducing measuring time.
Getting Ready for Additive Manufacturing
Readiness needs to be assessed on multiple fronts as companies seek to industrialize additive manufacturing.
#additiveinsights
Omron Soft NA HMI Improves Usability
Omron Automation Americas has launched a software version of its NA5 human-machine interface that will run on the company’s IPC series to give end users more control over their machines.
Hexagon VISI 2021 Improves CAD Analysis
Hexagon's VISI 2021 includes new analysis-shading modes to improve CAD analysis.
Okuma’s MCR-S Roughs, Finishes Press Dies in One Setup
Okuma's MCR-S double-column machining center reduces cycle time to rough and finishing press dies in one setup.
Starrett's AVX550 Delivers Accurate, Fast Measurements
Starrett’s AVX550 is a large-format, multi-sensor vision system that combines vision and touch-probe features for quick and accurate measurements.
Taking an Automated Aerospace Approach
A flexible manufacturing system helps an Indiana job shop run a high mix of aerospace work for long stretches of time and function more like a contract shop.
Machining Suppliers of the Future Will Be Both Bigger and Smaller
When we look for Top Shops in the years to come, what will we find? Through acquisition they’ll scale up and with technology they’ll scale down.
#topshops #zaxis
How Champions Can Develop a Thriving Workforce
Having a workforce development champion in your shop is more critical now than ever before. Here are five techniques your champion can apply to attract and retain new talent.
Doosan Puma SMX5100L Turn-Mill Has More Chuck Sizes
The Doosan Puma SMX5100L is a twin-spindle, multi-tasking turn-mill center designed to complete complex parts in a single setup, with chuck sizes available in 15, 18 and 21 inches.
Agile's Machine Tending System Enables Lights Out Machining
Agile Robotics Systems has added compact models to its Agile Flex range of machine loaders, which are compatible with any CNC machine.
Supertec Mini Genie Cylindrical Grinder Removes More Stock
IMTS Spark: Supertec Machinery’s Mini Genie CNC cylindrical grinder is designed for shops with limited floor space
Heidenhain StateMonitor 1.3.0 Improves CNC Connectivity
The Heidenhain StateMonitor 1.3.0 software upgrade simplifies data viewing and control process evaluation for CNC manufacturers remotely and in real time, and is compatible with both Heidenhain and non-Heidenhain controls.
Eliminating Human Error with a Closed-Loop Boring Bar System
Rigibore’s ActiveEdge boring bars and Zenith system automatically adjust based on in-process measurement data, reducing scrap and aiding in lights out machining.
IMTS Network Offers Daily Original Programming
IMTS Network, a digital channel that will broadcast orgininal content live on the IMTS website, will run September 14 through 18.
#imts
Metalworking Index Contraction Slows for Fourth Straight Month
Index components continue to move toward 50, led by production and new orders
#economics
Why Is It Okay to Fire a Customer?
Standing up for your employees shows that your company values are more than just words on a wall.
#viewfrommyshop
Alliance's Vacuum Degreasers Handle Critical Applications
IMTS Spark: Alliance Manufacturing Inc. is the U.S. distributor for Ilsa S.p.A.’s enclosed vacuum degreasing systems, which can clean complex parts to tight standards.
Rocklin Manufacturing's FlyMarker Mini Handles Uneven Surfaces
IMTS Spark: Rocklin Manufacturing’s FlyMarker mini 85/45 plus is a portable, battery-operated dot-peen marker with a large marking area and deep marking power.
Accutek Inc. Releases AccuKool Shrink Fit Toolholder
AccuTek Inc. has expanded its AccuGrip Shrink Fit toolholder line with the new AccuKool toolholder, which features coolant port holes engineered to improve coolant flow.
