Julia Hider

Julia Hider Senior Editor

3D Printing Lightweights Large Cutting Tools

Larger parts require larger, heavier cutting tools. 3D printing enables Star SU Neher to produce lightweight large tool bodies and add features that improve tool life and performance.

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3 Uses for a Composite Polymer 3D Printer in a CNC Machine Shop

When RPG purchased its metal 3D printer, a polymer printer was part of the deal. Three uses this job shop has found for this fused filament fabrication system. 

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Automation Adds Capacity to Capability for Low-Volume Work

Investment in machining technology has facilitated growth and diversification at Reich Tool & Design. Now, flexible automation allows the shop to get more out of its machines despite a shortage of skilled workers.

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Improving Workflows in Small Shops with Custom ERP

Small shops might not be ready for all of the functionality of an off-the-shelf ERP system, but modular, custom ERP programs can help improve workflow while providing the flexibility to change as shops grow.

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Milling Tools

Advancing Cutting Tool Production with Electrical Discharge Grinding

A wider power range and new erosion control features enable users of ANCA’s EDG machines to more quickly produce cutting tools that last longer.

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Coatings Show Promise in Improving Machinability of Gummy Metals

Research has shown that coating soft, gummy metals with certain media can locally embrittle the material, providing a range of machining benefits.

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Video: Shifting into Shop Ownership

Mike Budde, owner of Budde Precision Machining, shares his experience with buying a machine shop and what he’s learned in his two years of shop ownership.

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Automation

Prototyping is the Path from Tooling to Production Work

As a new owner takes over a tooling shop, he must balance the company’s foundation with his goal of expanding the shop’s capacity to also take on production work.

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Basics

Avoiding a Failed Automation Integration

New features that simplify robot use have blurred the lines between tasks that shops can automate independently from those that will require the support of an integrator. Here’s what shops should keep in mind to avoid a costly failed integration.

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Moving Monitoring Closer to the Cut

A sensory toolholder can provide more accurate vibration data on the metalcutting process, helping to extend tool life and improve surface finish.

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Automation

New Horizons with a New Horizontal Machining Center

A sudden surge in orders for a part used in COVID diagnostic equipment forced CBM Industries to quickly adapt to its first horizontal machining center, including the challenges of fixturing and lights-out machining.

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Workholding

Choosing Workholding to Meet Machining Challenges

When it comes to workholding, shops can choose from options that can provide flexibility, help increase throughput and enable five-axis machining.  

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Horn USA
Methods Automation
TCI
Schunk
CoroMill Plura Ballnose
Kyocera MA90
One-Touch Clamps. No Tools Needed.
Precision grinding & hard turning custom solutions
TCI