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Machine Tools See All

29 Jul 2026
Seeing Advances in Large-Scale Multitask Machining
At a recent open house, WFL Millturn Technologies highlighted new forms of automation, tooling and process control for its sizeable turn-mill equipment.

13 Jul 2026
He Built a Machine Shop on a Working Cattle Farm (Video)
Jeff Lewis has spent his entire life on 380 acres in Cox's Creek, Kentucky — farming it, raising a family on it, and building a precision CNC shop that now machines die inserts for major automotive OEMs. This is how all three things ended up in the same place.

22 Jun 2026
How Linear Motion Components Impact CNC Machining Operations
Linear motion components provide the foundation for smooth axis movement on a machine tool. Here are factors to consider when choosing machines with linear motion components that are durable and effective for different machining applications.

18 Jun 2026
Two Roads to Multiprocess Lathes
Large-format multiprocess lathes require careful manufacturing and machine design to successfully tackle complex production challenges. A recent visit to one Basque OEM showed how it prepares swappable accessory and machine head versions of its machines for large-format turning, milling, grinding and more.

8 Jun 2026
Fanning’s Automated Five-Axis Formula for Success
This shop owner realizes that the investment doesn’t stop at the machine when developing an efficient five-axis process.

29 May 2026
Performing Complex Processes in Fewer Touches
High-end, complex parts and staffing the machines that make them are perennial bugbears for job shops. In this recap of DN Solutions’ 2026 Manufacturing Without Limits event, see the technology and software the OEM showcased to meet both these needs.
Tooling See All

22 Jul 2026
How to Counter Jaw Lift and Wear
Jaw lift is a natural force that pushes parts ever so slightly out of the vise. Uncontrolled, it can throw ultra-precision parts out of tolerance. Careful planning can counter its worst effects.

13 Jul 2026
He Built a Machine Shop on a Working Cattle Farm (Video)
Jeff Lewis has spent his entire life on 380 acres in Cox's Creek, Kentucky — farming it, raising a family on it, and building a precision CNC shop that now machines die inserts for major automotive OEMs. This is how all three things ended up in the same place.

29 Jun 2026
How to Implement Zero-Point Workholding
The value of zero-point workholding systems is that your machine stops being tied to your setups. Once you see it that way, the day-to-day uses are easy to find.

2 Jun 2026
Lang Technik USA Scales Up (And Down) In New Facility
Lang’s new Wisconsin facility, which will become the first U.S. manufacturing site for the company, showcases larger modular workholding products and more compact automation.

22 May 2026
A Framework for Limiting Tool Wear in Machining
Because tool costs can be significant, selecting a process plan that limits tool wear to an acceptable, predictable level is important for machining. Consider these metalcutting wear mechanisms to get the most out of your tooling.

8 Apr 2026
Extend Tool Life with Tooling, Toolpath and CAM Developments
Advanced tooling and tool path strategies can do just as much as a new machine tool to cut cycle times and improve tool life. Learn from tooling specialists about recent optimizations, as well as the tool paths and advanced CAM features they see improving job shops’ productivity.
Software See All

24 Jul 2026
Four Methods to Streamline Part Programming
How can shops cut programming times for more profitable jobs today? Feature-based programming, canned cycles, associative CAD/CAM and simulation are all active innovations that improve programming efficiency while cutting cycle times.

17 Jul 2026
Associative CAD/CAM Increases Shop’s Productivity Fivefold
Fully integrated CAD/CAM and revision control have enabled Willis Custom Yachts to confidently perform lights-out work for a fivefold productivity gain.

5 Jun 2026
Why Slow Quoting Is Costing U.S. Machine Shops Work
A shop can have the right machines, people and capacity — and still lose the job. The reason may be quoting speed. This AI tool is built to close that gap.

29 May 2026
Performing Complex Processes in Fewer Touches
High-end, complex parts and staffing the machines that make them are perennial bugbears for job shops. In this recap of DN Solutions’ 2026 Manufacturing Without Limits event, see the technology and software the OEM showcased to meet both these needs.

28 May 2026
Zoller Smart Manufacturing Summit Highlights TMS Capabilities
At the 2026 Zoller Technology Days and Smart Manufacturing Summit, the company highlighted its Smart Manufacturing solutions, including tool management and data handling systems.

27 May 2026
Advanced CAM Features Cut Programming and Cycle Times
Feature-based programming automation, advanced tool support and high-precision tool paths all share one goal: Improve the programmer’s ability to get things done. Learn more about the cutting edge of programming your cutting edge.
Measurement See All

12 Jun 2026
How to Prevent Waste With Ideal Metrology Placement
Choosing between inline, near-line and offline metrology requires a process-first approach. Ask whether the measurement is controlling the process or simply evaluating its outcome.

15 May 2026
When Size Dimensions Aren't Enough
A lot of what makes modern machining difficult isn’t whether a dimension falls within tolerance; it’s whether the shape actually works once the part is in service. That’s where contour measuring instruments comes into play.

17 Apr 2026
How to Stabilize Machining With Tap Testing
Use tap testing to generate stability maps and maximize productivity with chatter-free machining parameters.

15 Apr 2026
How I Made It: George Schuetz, Director of Precision Gages, Mahr Inc.
George Schuetz has written the Quality Gaging Tips column since 1993. As he hands it off to the next generation, hear his thoughts on the column and what it has brought to his role at Mahr.

27 Mar 2026
How White-Light Interferometry Enables Nanometer Surface Height Measurement of Critical Components
Breaking down white-light interferometry, an extreme-precision, noncontact method for measuring the most demanding surface profiles.

25 Mar 2026
Integrated Metrology Solution Powers Lights-Out Aerospace Production
Acutec Precision Aerospace paired a shopfloor CMM with a robotic mill-turn cell to unlock unattended throughput without compromising a micron of quality.
Automation See All

17 Jul 2026
Associative CAD/CAM Increases Shop’s Productivity Fivefold
Fully integrated CAD/CAM and revision control have enabled Willis Custom Yachts to confidently perform lights-out work for a fivefold productivity gain.

17 Jul 2026
The Robots Are Coming to IMTS. So Are the People Who'll Run Them.
As automation reshapes shopfloor roles, IMTS 2026 is doubling as a recruiting, training and retention event, matching new machines with the people who’ll run them.

17 Jun 2026
TMTS 2026: Taiwan Redefines Its Advanced Manufacturing Strategy
TMTS 2026 showed how Taiwan’s machine tool industry is accelerating its shift toward more integrated, automated and application-focused manufacturing models. Artificial intelligence, digital monitoring, multitasking platforms and solutions for sectors such as aerospace and semiconductors defined an edition focused on increasing the technological value of Taiwanese manufacturing amid growing global competitive pressure.

8 Jun 2026
Fanning’s Automated Five-Axis Formula for Success
This shop owner realizes that the investment doesn’t stop at the machine when developing an efficient five-axis process.

5 Jun 2026
Why Slow Quoting Is Costing U.S. Machine Shops Work
A shop can have the right machines, people and capacity — and still lose the job. The reason may be quoting speed. This AI tool is built to close that gap.

2 Jun 2026
Lang Technik USA Scales Up (And Down) In New Facility
Lang’s new Wisconsin facility, which will become the first U.S. manufacturing site for the company, showcases larger modular workholding products and more compact automation.
TASC See All

27 Oct 2025 Automation
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?

13 Aug 2025 Automation
What CNC Taught Us About Adopting AI in Manufacturing
Modern Machine Shop was early to cover CNC when others weren’t. Now, as AI pushes into programming, optimization and robotics, we need to separate production-ready tools from overpromised tech.

2 Jul 2025 Automation
Last Chance for the TASC Early-Bird Discount!
TASC is a one-of-a-kind, two-day automation conference designed to drive efficiency, quality and scalability at U.S. job shops. Register now through July 11 to receive early-bird pricing and discover practical automation solutions tailored for small-and mid-sized shops.

18 Jun 2025 Automation
Lessons That Matter for the Future of Automated Job Shops
The Automated Shop Conference (TASC, August 12–13) is designed for job shop leaders looking to implement automation in practical, high-impact ways — from lights-out machining to AI-driven programming and front-office integration. Here are 10 standout sessions led by shop owners, engineers and innovators who are pushing automation forward without massive budgets or unrealistic expectations.

10 Jun 2025
Register for TASC: The Automated Shop Conference

4 Feb 2025
Why Add TASC to Your List?
TASC 2025 takes place in Indianapolis this August. Attendees will be able to learn automation strategies from their peers: All information—no bluster.
IMTS See All

13 Sep 2024
Coming to McCormick Place in April: Additive FOR Manufacturing at Formnext Chicago
New U.S.-based event announced in 2021 finally debuts next year: focuses on complete additive manufacturing value chain. More at formnextchicago.com.

12 Sep 2024
Chiron Group Unveils Virtual Showroom & Live Demos at IMTS 2024
Chiron Group combines the best of both worlds at IMTS 2024, featuring live demonstrations of their Micro5 and Mill 2000 machines, alongside a cutting-edge virtual showroom. This innovative approach allows visitors to explore Chiron’s full product lineup without the logistical challenges of transporting large equipment.

12 Sep 2024
JTEKT Debuts Eight Machines at IMTS
Half of the 16 machines in the company’s booth are world or North American debuts.

12 Sep 2024
Go Big or Go Home: Hwacheon Displays a Wide Variety of Machinery at IMTS 2024
Learn more about the variety of technology and machinery Hwacheon Machinery America, Inc. is featuring at its IMTS 2024 booth.

12 Sep 2024
FANUC Details Robotic Vision, ROBODRILLS and More at IMTS 2024
FANUC’s IMTS 2024 booth includes real-time demonstrations that show the abilities of its equipment, including robots, controllers and machine tools.

11 Sep 2024
AI, Data and the Digital Manufacturing Future
AI has the potential to reshape manufacturing software — but first, it will require data.
Columns See All

27 Jul 2026
What Closing the Information Gap Actually Looks Like
Manufacturing Connected promised to close the information gap. Now that it’s live, here’s what will determine whether it delivers on that promise.

6 Jul 2026
How Manufacturing Leaders Can Close the Information Gap
Shop owners and GMs do not need more information. They need earlier signals, clearer context and a better way to connect market movement to decisions about quoting, material, capacity and capital spending.

29 Jun 2026
How to Implement Zero-Point Workholding
The value of zero-point workholding systems is that your machine stops being tied to your setups. Once you see it that way, the day-to-day uses are easy to find.

12 Jun 2026
How to Prevent Waste With Ideal Metrology Placement
Choosing between inline, near-line and offline metrology requires a process-first approach. Ask whether the measurement is controlling the process or simply evaluating its outcome.

1 Jun 2026
Before You Automate, Learn to Stop
Better software, robots and AI raise the payoff for machine shops that have stable processes. But do they raise the cost for everyone else?

15 May 2026
When Size Dimensions Aren't Enough
A lot of what makes modern machining difficult isn’t whether a dimension falls within tolerance; it’s whether the shape actually works once the part is in service. That’s where contour measuring instruments comes into play.
View From My Shop See All

13 Jul 2026
He Built a Machine Shop on a Working Cattle Farm (Video)
Jeff Lewis has spent his entire life on 380 acres in Cox's Creek, Kentucky — farming it, raising a family on it, and building a precision CNC shop that now machines die inserts for major automotive OEMs. This is how all three things ended up in the same place.

1 Apr 2026
Inside a Next-Gen Aerospace Machine Shop Running 24/7 Lights-Out | Shop Tour
Lights-out manufacturing boosts throughput while ensuring machinists take on only the tasks that matter. Acutec Precision Aerospace knows this—and uses it as the foundation for an innovative, successful shop.

13 Jan 2026
Shop Tour Video: How to Integrate Additive and Subtractive Machining
Addman Advanced Metals has scaled from a single 3D printer to 25 while also building out a robust array of subtractive machines. In this video, find out how the shop manages its additive and subtractive workflows — and how it combines the two into a profitable niche.

22 Oct 2025
Setting the Stage for Swiss Machining Success: Shop Tour Video
Nine machines, two machinists. What technologies have enabled Midway Swiss Turn to operate at this level of lean staffing? Find out in this shop tour.

22 Jul 2025
Video Interview: Programming Faster and Winning Jobs with AI CAM Software
Part programming can become a bottleneck, one that only gets longer as part complexity increases. MSP has cut down this bottleneck through AI-powered CAM software. Get the details inside.

26 Jun 2025
OEM Tour Video: Lean Manufacturing for Measurement and Metrology
How can a facility that requires manual work for some long-standing parts be made more efficient? Join us as we look inside The L. S. Starrett Company’s headquarters in Athol, Massachusetts, and see how this long-established OEM is updating its processes.
Made in the USA Podcast See All

11 Apr 2023
Made in the USA - Season 2 Episode 6: Why, and How, Hardinge is Reshoring Machine Tool Production
In this episode of Made in the USA, several executives and senior staff at Hardinge give their first-person account of how they formulated the plan to shift the manufacturing of its milling and turning product lines from its Taiwan plant to its plant in Elmira, New York, the major challenges they encountered and the rewards that made it worth the effort.

7 Mar 2023
Made in the USA - Season 2 Episode 4: A Measured Approach
The L.S. Starrett Co. has been manufacturing precision measurement tools in Athol, Massachusetts, since 1880. Attention to U.S. manufacturing often focuses on reshoring manufacturing from other countries, but Starrett never left. The facility in Athol employs hundreds and produces thousands of tools that remain vital for measurement in machining and other fields.

21 Feb 2023
Made in the USA - Season 2 Episode 3: The Robots Come Home
The latest episode “Made in the USA” podcast explores a company that uses collaborative robots, one of the key tools helping US machine shops and other manufacturers compete with lower cost countries by automating production.

7 Feb 2023
Made in the USA - Season 2 Episode 2: Man, No Smoke!
When Puneet and Neelam Neotia moved from India to the United States several years ago, they brought with them a family background in manufacturing and CNC machining. Now the couple is working to get their startup machine shop off the ground, sourcing new customers and getting the word out about their shop in Clarksville, Indiana. The couple — proud to publicize their "Made in the USA" parts — is leveraging family connections and manufacturing capabilities back in India, but not in the way that some people assume.

24 Jan 2023
Made in the USA - Season 2 Episode 1: A Return From China
Entrepreneur Scott Colosimo found early success in China producing parts for his Cleveland-based motorcycle company in the mid-2000s. This is the story of how IP theft issues overwhelmed the business, prompting Colosimo and his team to start over from scratch — and move production back to the United States.

12 Jan 2023
Made in the USA – Season 1 Episode 6: The Way Forward
So far, Made in the USA has looked into system-wide effects of broken supply chains, automation, skilled workforce issues and our perception of manufacturing jobs — examining each topic through a prism of individual experiences. For this final episode for Season 1, let’s look at one more system-wide question and bring it back to personal perspectives: Is there today a new dawn, a new moment for American manufacturing?
Top Shops Benchmarking See All

21 Jul 2026 Top Shops
Modern Machine Shop Announces 2026 Top Shops Honorees
Selected from participants in MMS’ annual Top Shops Benchmarking Survey, this year’s honorees exemplify innovation, leadership and operational excellence in the machining industry.

20 Apr 2026 Top Shops
Top Shops Conference Expands, Adds Products Finishing
The annual data-driven benchmarking and business improvement event now includes CNC machining and industrial finishing.

1 Apr 2026 Top Shops
Modern Machine Shop’s 2026 Top Shops Benchmarking Survey Goes Live Feb. 1
Modern Machine Shop is proud to announce the 2026 Top Shops Benchmarking Survey, opening February 1 through April 10, 2026.

15 Dec 2025 Top Shops
Proactivity Generates Success: Takeaways from Top Shops 2025
What sets a Top Shop apart from other shops? Industry leaders explored this question at the 2025 Top Shops Conference and found a common answer: proactive, intentional purchases and systems planning.

12 Nov 2025 Top Shops
Machining with a Mission
Learn how veteran-owned shop Win-Tech not only excels in aerospace and defense manufacturing with CMMC level two compliance, but also transforms lives by hiring veterans and encouraging students to explore manufacturing.

27 Oct 2025 Top Shops
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?
Suppliers See All

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Videos See All

13 Jul 2026 View From My Shop
He Built a Machine Shop on a Working Cattle Farm (Video)
Jeff Lewis has spent his entire life on 380 acres in Cox's Creek, Kentucky — farming it, raising a family on it, and building a precision CNC shop that now machines die inserts for major automotive OEMs. This is how all three things ended up in the same place.

1 Apr 2026 Automation
Inside a Next-Gen Aerospace Machine Shop Running 24/7 Lights-Out | Shop Tour
Lights-out manufacturing boosts throughput while ensuring machinists take on only the tasks that matter. Acutec Precision Aerospace knows this—and uses it as the foundation for an innovative, successful shop.

13 Jan 2026 Additive Manufacturing
Shop Tour Video: How to Integrate Additive and Subtractive Machining
Addman Advanced Metals has scaled from a single 3D printer to 25 while also building out a robust array of subtractive machines. In this video, find out how the shop manages its additive and subtractive workflows — and how it combines the two into a profitable niche.

22 Oct 2025 Turning Machines
Setting the Stage for Swiss Machining Success: Shop Tour Video
Nine machines, two machinists. What technologies have enabled Midway Swiss Turn to operate at this level of lean staffing? Find out in this shop tour.

22 Jul 2025 CAD/CAM
Video Interview: Programming Faster and Winning Jobs with AI CAM Software
Part programming can become a bottleneck, one that only gets longer as part complexity increases. MSP has cut down this bottleneck through AI-powered CAM software. Get the details inside.

26 Jun 2025 Inspection and Measurement
OEM Tour Video: Lean Manufacturing for Measurement and Metrology
How can a facility that requires manual work for some long-standing parts be made more efficient? Join us as we look inside The L. S. Starrett Company’s headquarters in Athol, Massachusetts, and see how this long-established OEM is updating its processes.
News & Products See All

5 Aug 2026 Automation
Vektek Pressure Monitoring System Supports Multifixture CNC Automation
IMTS 2026: Vektek introduces the Guardian 2.0, an industrial-grade pressure monitoring system designed for continuous oversight of clamping pressure across complex, multifixture environments.

5 Aug 2026 Automation
Fastems Automation System Enables Scalable Entry-Level Manufacturing
IMTS 2026: Fastems introduces the Flexible Pallet System – Stationary (FPS-S), a compact, modular pallet automation solution designed to grow from a single-machine setup into a full-scale Flexible Manufacturing System.

5 Aug 2026 Five-Axis
Chiron Machining Centers Provide High Performance for Range of Part Sizes
IMTS 2026: From ultra-precise micro components to larger, complex parts, the Micro5 XL micromachining center and the FZ 19 S five-axis machining center are designed to increase productivity and improve accuracy across a wide range of industries.

5 Aug 2026 Workholding
Dillon Collet Pads, Jaws Expand Range of Machinable Part Geometries
Dillon Manufacturing's collet pad top jaw systems accommodate a wider range of part geometries, offering quick changeovers, Carbinite coating for improved grip and reduced cycle times.

5 Aug 2026 Data-Driven Manufacturing
Siemens AI-Powered Solutions Accelerate Digital Transformation
IMTS 2026: Siemens Digital Industries presents its integrated portfolio of CNC automation, digitalization software and AI-enabled manufacturing tools, including the Sinumerik One and Sinumerik 828 controls.

4 Aug 2026 Grinding
Weldon CNC Cylindrical Grinder Supports Lights-Out Manufacturing
IMTS 2026: Weldon Solutions introduces the Midas Series CNC cylindrical grinding platform, designed for high-production between-centers and chucking applications with automation-ready capabilities.
Webinars See All

12 Aug 2026
How to Get Started With Zero-Point Clamping: Evaluating Options and Making the Right Decision
Zero-point clamping can significantly reduce setup times and improve repeatability across a family of machines — but knowing where to start is often the biggest hurdle. This webinar walks through the key implementation options available to shops considering a zero-point system and the questions worth asking before one is introduced to your workflow. Whether you're new to zero-point workholding or looking to expand its use across more machines, you'll leave with a practical framework for evaluating your options and setting up for success on the shop floor.

13 Aug 2026
Modern Optimization of Legacy Milling Machines
Across every industry, manufacturers face the same challenge: robust, mechanically solid machines powered by outdated technology. While the structure remains strong, aging controls, limited flexibility and increasing maintenance risks progressively reduce performance and productivity. Instead of discarding valuable assets, we revitalize them — preserving what still delivers structural strength and reliability while upgrading the components that limit performance. Two main integration levels of machine optimization will be discussed, along with several case studies. Agenda Ingersoll - Who we are today Technology and shared product lines to react quickly to demands Integration Levels Case Studies At a Glance

18 Aug 2026
Building a Connected Manufacturing Quality Process: Lessons From Pindel Global Precision
Manufacturers face relentless pressure to increase throughput, shorten lead times and improve quality, often with fewer resources. Disconnected systems, manual inspection workflows and siloed data remain among the most common barriers to growth. In this webinar, Bill Berrien, CEO of Pindel Global Precision, shares how his team built a connected digital thread across engineering, inspection, production, compliance and customer delivery. Drawing on firsthand experience navigating digital transformation and quality process modernization, Berrien will walk through the operational changes, technology decisions and organizational lessons that helped Pindel reduce costs, accelerate delivery and scale more reliably. Attendees will leave with practical frameworks applicable to their own operations — whether they're early in their digital transformation or looking to close gaps in an existing quality system. Agenda Identifying and eliminating critical operational bottlenecks Strategies for reducing costs while improving delivery performance Connecting quality data across departments and systems Modernizing inspection, compliance and reporting processes Building a scalable, digital-first quality infrastructure for long-term growth

19 Aug 2026
Traditional MES Wasn't Built for Palletized Machining. RCO Engineering Found What Was.
Palletized machines are among your highest-output assets and your hardest to track. An operator names a few jobs at the start of a shift, the cell cycles through them automatically and by day's end your ERP has no real record of what ran or for how long. RCO Engineering knows the problem. With roughly 600 employees across multiple campuses and a mixed environment spanning welding, stamping, tooling, mold, EDM and CNC machining for aerospace and contract work, the team's palletized cells were the hardest to track. Run times went uncaptured and keeping inventory accurate took hours of manual correction at the end of every shift. Join this session to hear from Eric Doyle, Operations Manager at RCO Engineering, for a candid look at why standard MES fell short on their most demanding machines and what changed when they augmented Epicor with MES built for palletized machining from MachineMetrics. They will share what wasn't working on the floor, how purpose-built inventory tracking brought their material data back under control and gave those manual hours back and how easier tools in operators' hands, including Max AI to answer floor-level questions on the spot, changed who actually uses the system and what the data makes possible. We will close with a look at where shop floor execution is headed next, including a preview of what MachineMetrics is bringing to IMTS 2026. Agenda Why traditional MES breaks on palletized machines. When a cell cycles through jobs and part numbers automatically, manual entry can't capture true run times or material use and that's where the data falls apart. MES that augments your ERP, not replaces it. How RCO layered MachineMetrics onto Epicor and built custom inventory tracking around their workflow, rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all template. How visibility turns into decisions. Moving from lagging counts and manual fixes to data leaders can act on, from reclaiming labor hours to justifying a new palletized cell to quoting with confidence. What's Next. A first look at how the line between ERP planning and shop floor execution is changing, ahead of IMTS 2026.

20 Aug 2026
Integrated Microfactories: Robotic Large-Format Additive Manufacturing and AI in Distributed Production
Global supply chains are under pressure. Lead times have stretched, supply is constrained by ongoing disruptions, and the traditional model of centralized production is showing its limits. Distributed manufacturing — building closer to where parts are needed — is emerging as a practical alternative. This webinar examines the microfactory model: a compact, integrated production system that combines robotic large-format additive manufacturing, multi-axis CNC milling, and AI-driven process intelligence to manufacture large industrial components at or near point of use. Nils Niemeyer, chief growth officer at Caracol, and Leslie Bush, senior customer success engineer, will walk through how the model works, what enabling technologies make it viable today, and what real deployments look like across construction, composites, and industrial manufacturing. If you are evaluating strategies to bring more production in-house, reduce supply chain exposure, or scale manufacturing capacity without a greenfield facility investment, this session is for you. Agenda The manufacturing moment: why traditional centralized production is under pressure and what the shift toward distributed manufacturing means for industrial producers The microfactory model: how the convergence of robotics, software and AI makes compact, integrated production systems viable today Technology in practice: a look at robotic large-format additive manufacturing, multi-axis CNC milling and AI-driven process intelligence working as an integrated system Real-world deployments: customer case studies across construction, composites and industrial manufacturing Getting started: what manufacturers need to evaluate before pursuing a microfactory or distributed production model

25 Aug 2026
Carbide vs. Ceramic Tooling: How to Reduce Machining Cycle Times and Increase Productivity
Ceramic cutting tools can significantly improve machining productivity, reduce cycle times, and increase throughput in the right applications. However, determining when to switch from carbide tooling to ceramic tooling requires an understanding of material requirements, machining conditions, and production goals. In this webinar, machining experts will explain the key differences between carbide and ceramic cutting tools and discuss the applications where ceramic tooling delivers the greatest performance advantages. Attendees will learn how ceramic tools can improve machining efficiency, support high-speed machining strategies, and help reduce overall manufacturing costs. The presentation will also cover recommended ceramic grades for common machining operations, material considerations, and practical guidance for selecting the right tooling solution for specific production environments. Join us to learn when ceramic tooling makes sense, how to maximize its performance, and where it can create measurable gains in productivity and profitability. Agenda Introductions Understanding the Differences Between Carbide and Ceramic Cutting Tools How Ceramic Tooling Improves Machining Productivity and Reduces Cycle Times Applications Where Ceramic Tooling Outperforms Carbide Selecting the Right Ceramic Grade for Specific Materials and Operations Best Practices for Implementing Ceramic Tooling in Production Environments Audience Q&A

6 Aug 2026 New & Upcoming
Mastering Milling: A Framework for Cutter Selection & Troubleshooting Register Now
Events See All

5 Aug 2026
NTMA - Industry 4.0 Forum & ERP Shootout
NTMA hosts Industry 4.0 Forum & ERP Shootout on Aug. 5-6, 2026 in Troy, MI.

5 Aug 2026
AWS - Welding Summit 2026: Improving Welding Competency
AWS hosts Welding Summit 2026: Improving Welding Competency on Aug. 5-7, 2026 in The Woodlands, TX.

6 Aug 2026
NTMA Southern California - Member Tour: Moseys Production Machinists
The NTMA Southern California chapter hosts Member Tour: Moseys Production Machinists on Aug. 6, 2026 in Anaheim, CA.

6 Aug 2026
PMPA Illinois - Chapter Social: Rockin' in the Park
The PMPA Illinois chapter hosts Chapter Social: Rockin' in the Park on Aug. 6, 2026 in Rosemont, IL.

6 Aug 2026
PMA Tennessee - Nissan Smyrna Plant Tour 2026
The PMA Tennessee chapter hosts Nissan Smyrna Plant Tour 2026 on Aug. 6, 2026 in Smyrna, TN.

7 Aug 2026
AWS Nebraska - 32nd Annual Golf Outing
The AWS Nebraska chapter hosts 32nd Annual Golf Outing on Aug. 7, 2026 in Papillion, NE.

5 Aug 2026 New & Upcoming
NSPECon 2026 Register Now
Ask the Expert See All

29 Jun 2026 Basics
How to Implement Zero-Point Workholding
The value of zero-point workholding systems is that your machine stops being tied to your setups. Once you see it that way, the day-to-day uses are easy to find.

13 May 2026 Basics
3 Principles to Achieve Test Cuts Worth Trusting
A test cut — justified by specific risk, designed on a clean canvas and used to confirm rather than analyze — can expose if uncommon machining traits fit your needs.

10 Apr 2026 Basics
How to Scale Production With the Right Adjustments at the Right Times
Volume machining teaches you on a delay. Some lessons are available on part one, some take a shift and some won’t show up for weeks. The timeline matters. Here’s how to read it from the first part to the last.

16 Mar 2026 Holemaking
Methods for Threading Blind Holes in Thin Materials
Struggling with blind holes in thin materials? Use these drill point strategies, tap selections and clearance tips to maximize usable thread depth and meet pull-out specs without redesigning the part.

13 Feb 2026 Basics
7 Steps to Optimize Aggressive Roughing Operations
Follow these guidelines to get the most out of aggressive roughing while improving cycle times and keeping quality intact.

21 Jan 2026
Troubleshooting Processes Experiencing Drift or Shift
Most troubleshooting fails for a simple reason: rather than conducting true root cause analysis, people start assigning causes before they properly classify behavior.
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5 Aug 2026

Looking to Solve a Problem at IMTS? Here’s Where to Start.
SPONSORED 3 Aug 2026

4, 5, and 6-Flute Solid Carbide 90º End Mills for Superior Performance in Stainless Steel
3 Aug 2026

IMTS 2026 Field Guide: How to Plan, Navigate and Get ROI From the Show Floor
SPONSORED 1 Aug 2026

From Manual to Hydraulic: Upgraded Design Propels Production
SPONSORED 1 Aug 2026

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Published 02/24/2011

Lathe and Bed Mill

The TRAK TRL 1630SX lathe and the TRAK DPM SX3P bed mill both feature the ProtoTRAK CNC.

Edited by: MMS Editorial Team

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The TRAK TRL 1630SX lathe and the TRAK DPM SX3P bed mill both feature the ProtoTRAK CNC. The 1630SX may be operated manually or by CNC with the optional TRAKing feature. The bedways are hardened and ground, and sliding surfaces are Turcite coated. The 1630SX is equipped with electronic handwheels and a jogstick, and a spindle speed range from 150 to 2,500 rpm.

The bed mill with the ProtoTRAK SMX control can be operated manually, or as a two- or three-axis CNC. The solid ram moves up and down for Z-axis operation, providing mass behind heavy cuts. TRAK bed mills are equipped with an electronic head that provides programmable spindle speeds and the ability to tap. Precision-ground ballscrews are installed in the table, saddle and ram. The mill wide way surfaces are hardened and ground, and slide ways are Turcite coated.

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