Columns
Surface Texture Measurement for the Unseen World
With newer structures frequently requiring nanometer-scale dimensions, more surface analysis is required. Optical noncontact surface analysis can provide the magnification required for these measurements during development and for in-process measurements.
Read More
Why Some CNC Shops Outperform Others With the Same Equipment
Five very different machining stories, one theme: top performance comes from process knowledge, not just equipment.
Read More
Order Of Operations Is Where Geometry Meets Judgement
Considerations for planning tool orders and material removal sequences to keep parts stable, accurate and clean.
Read More
An Indicating Snap Gage Primer
The variable snap gage, with its built-in features and combined with modern digital readout devices, offers a sound and easy-to-use tool for controlling critical diameters.
Read More
Machining for Downstream Success
Understanding the connection between surfaces, shapes and tolerances, and then designing your process with these nuances mind, is what separates a vendor from a partner.
Read More
The Strategy Gap: Why U.S. Job Shops Must Close It From the Ground Up
The “Made in China 2025” plan transformed China into a global automation supplier. What will the U.S. do to compete?
Read More
Measuring Distance With Surface Texture Systems
Defining and monitoring the surfaces of mated parts is crucial to ensuring they function properly together.
Read More
Inside the Top Shops Program: How Benchmarking Identifies Industry Leaders
Discrete parts manufacturing is defined by complexity and tight margins. The 2025 Top Shops honorees show how leading shops turn those pressures into strengths, using technology, culture and strategy to compete. Join them in Charlotte, North Carolina, this November to see what the top 20% are doing differently.
Read More
Finding the Right Balance Between Productivity and Stability
Shop upgrades can swamp a process with change and widen the potential for chaos. To maintain stability, put a frame around your processes so your shop can keep solid wins without living on edge.
Read More
CAM Copilots and the Next Digital Shift in American Machining
As AI reshapes programming and automation, Mastercam is betting on a future where human expertise and intelligent software evolve together on the shop floor. A conversation with Mastercam President Russ Bukowski.
Read More
Gear Surface Texture Is More Important Than Ever
The interactions of gear surfaces are becoming increasingly important in applications such as automotive electric motor drive systems and aircraft turbines.
Read More
Measuring Tighter Tolerances With a 3-Point Precision Bore Gage
For lower volumes and a wide variety of bore checking, three-point (or tri-bore) gages offer a high-precision, cost-effective solution.
Read More
