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Machine Tools See All

11 Dec 2024
Supercritical Success for Medical Machining
High-pressure carbon dioxide coolant can dramatically improve the production rate of titanium parts while leaving no residue — an excellent fit for medical machining.

5 Dec 2024
How to Automate a Prototyping Shop
By focusing machine tending on pallets rather than individual parts, KAD Models has automated its high-mix, low-volume workload — and thrived as a result.

4 Dec 2024
Inside a CNC-Machined Gothic Monastery in Wyoming
An inside look into the Carmelite Monks of Wyoming, who are combining centuries-old Gothic architectural principles with modern CNC machining to build a monastery in the mountains of Wyoming.

25 Nov 2024
Three Key Factors For Stabilizing a Grinding Operation
Improving throughput in grinding takes more than direct increases to material removal rate. It also requires careful consideration of the factors behind the operation’s stability.

15 Nov 2024
Shop “Dims the Lights” With Pallets and More
Adding pallet systems brought Mach Machine success and additional productivity. The shop has since furthered its automation goals while adding new capabilities.

5 Nov 2024
Refining Shopfloor Processes for Mission-Critical Parts
Pacon Mfg, Inc. has not rested on its laurels as the 2020 Top Shop Honoree for Shopfloor Practices and Performance. In the years since, it has refined its processes to continue excelling in a volatile market.
Tooling See All

18 Dec 2024
PowRgrip Responds to Three Tooling Trends
Rego-Fix’s PowRgrip tooling system has expanded over the past 20 years to incorporate a wider range of tool sizes, as well as automation.

12 Dec 2024
Advanced CAMs Simplify Programming of Conical Barrel Cutters
Conical barrel cutters have grown in popularity thanks to the large stepovers that reduce the time needed for some finishing processes, but advanced CAM systems can dramatically improve their usefulness.

21 Nov 2024
Prioritizing Workholding Density Versus Simplicity
Determining whether to use high-density fixtures or to simplify workholding requires a deeper look into the details of your parts and processes.

19 Nov 2024
Rego-Fix’s Center for Machining Excellence Promotes Collaboration
The new space includes a showroom, office spaces and an auditorium that will enhance its work with its technical partners.

11 Nov 2024
Through-Coolant System Cuts Nickel-Alloy Cycle Times by 70%
Decker Machine Works recently adopted Rego-Fix’s reCool through-coolant system for ER collets, reducing the cycle times on a nickel alloy job by 70%.

4 Nov 2024
Navigating Large-Scale CNC Machining: Suburban Tool’s Niche Strategy to Stay Competitive
Facing increasing competition from lower-cost imports, Suburban Tool made a move toward large-scale, in-house machining. By identifying a niche in large, precision angle plates and tombstones, the company has strengthened its ability to control quality and protect its reputation.
Software See All

12 Dec 2024
Advanced CAMs Simplify Programming of Conical Barrel Cutters
Conical barrel cutters have grown in popularity thanks to the large stepovers that reduce the time needed for some finishing processes, but advanced CAM systems can dramatically improve their usefulness.

2 Dec 2024
How I Made It: Mike Lynch
Mike Lynch has been a CNC programming teacher for three decades, in addition to being the longest-running columnist in Modern Machine Shop history, providing generations of machinists with expert insight into the art of programming parts. With this issue being Mike’s last, we wanted to highlight his career and what it means for the industry.

13 Nov 2024
Four Questions (& Answers) About Data-Driven Process Improvement at CNC Job Shops
How can shops can make informed decisions using data-driven feedback to improve shopfloor efficiency and profitability? And how will these technologies differ between high- and low-volume production?

5 Nov 2024
Refining Shopfloor Processes for Mission-Critical Parts
Pacon Mfg, Inc. has not rested on its laurels as the 2020 Top Shop Honoree for Shopfloor Practices and Performance. In the years since, it has refined its processes to continue excelling in a volatile market.

1 Nov 2024
OnLogic Partners With AI Development Specialists for Industrial AI Adoption
OnLogic is partnering with AI development and implementation specialists to help companies use AI-powered solutions, aiming to drive real business value.

29 Oct 2024
From Process Monitoring to Quality Prediction Software
Even before inspection, Datanomix and Caron Engineering’s TMAC AI can extrapolate part quality from cut information. This information also helps shops push their tool life to its limits.
Measurement See All

17 Dec 2024
A 100-Year-Old Measurement Tool That is Still Used Today
The reed mechanism was a breakthrough in high-precision measurement and is still used today for sub-micron or even nanometer resolution applications.

26 Nov 2024
Building Temperature Compensation Into the Gaging Station
As production tolerances become ever tighter and the error margin for measurement results shrinks, manufacturers must consider thermal fluctuations in their inspection processes.

18 Nov 2024
Visible Touch: Tactile Sensor Enables Multi-Purpose Inspection
Not only can Gelsight’s tactile sensor detect and evaluate defects, but it can also measure part features, surface roughness and even contamination.

23 Oct 2024
3 Tips for Properly Making Form Measurements
Determining the shape of a workpiece is required in many manufacturing processes. Keep in mind these important points to ensure that you master the process.

30 Sep 2024
A Balancing Act for Differential Gaging
Differential gaging measures using two devices, which has advantages over standard, comparative measurements using a single sensing head. These include the ability to measure size without regard to position.

11 Sep 2024
Going Hands-On with Heidenhain and Acu-Rite Solutions
Heidenhain and Acu-Rite Solutions are offering several hands-on experiences at their booth this year, as well as internal components that reduce energy use.
Automation See All

20 Dec 2024
Smooth Operators: Vibration Compensation Improves Robot Performance
Ulendo is working to apply its vibration compensation algorithm to robots. This application is more complex than its initial market of FFF 3D printers, but could result in faster, cheaper robots.

6 Dec 2024
Tactile Sensor Could Give Robots Human Touch
Gelsight’s tactile sensing technology could give robots more flexibility in the tasks and environments they can handle.

5 Dec 2024
How to Automate a Prototyping Shop
By focusing machine tending on pallets rather than individual parts, KAD Models has automated its high-mix, low-volume workload — and thrived as a result.

15 Nov 2024
Shop “Dims the Lights” With Pallets and More
Adding pallet systems brought Mach Machine success and additional productivity. The shop has since furthered its automation goals while adding new capabilities.

13 Nov 2024
Four Questions (& Answers) About Data-Driven Process Improvement at CNC Job Shops
How can shops can make informed decisions using data-driven feedback to improve shopfloor efficiency and profitability? And how will these technologies differ between high- and low-volume production?

12 Nov 2024
The Symbiotic Relationship Between Robots and 3D Printing
In this episode of the AM Radio podcast, Robots & Autonomy Editor Julia Hider joins Additive Manufacturing’s Executive Editor Stephanie Hendrixson and Editor-in-Chief Peter Zelinski to discuss how robots and 3D printing enable each other.
TASC See All

10 Oct 2024 Automation
IMTS 2024: Trends & Takeaways From the Modern Machine Shop Editorial Team
The Modern Machine Shop editorial team highlights their takeaways from IMTS 2024 in a video recap.

9 Sep 2024 Basics
10 Tips to Make the Most of IMTS
IMTS only happens every two years. Here’s how to make the most of your time at the 2024 show.

23 Oct 2023 Automation
Takeaways From TASC
Across a range of technical presentations aimed at small and mid-sized job shops, the first-ever Automated Shop Conference (TASC) offered insights into several automated technologies, implementation strategies, shopfloor training tips, and even the untapped power of automated coolant delivery.

26 Sep 2023 Automation
3 TASC Topics That Touch on Automation Considerations for Job Shops
Automation is no longer a luxury in manufacturing today – it’s a necessity. The Automated Shop Conference (TASC) will connect job shops with experts who offer advice and considerations for this process.

21 Sep 2023 Automation
4 Lessons Your Shop Will Take Away From TASC
The Automated Shop Conference (TASC) will give shops of all sizes and production volumes key insights and practical guidance on how to implement automation.

19 Sep 2023 Automation
Pay Attention to These 7 Themes at TASC
Looking to automate your shop floor? The Automated Shop Conference (TASC) will connect shops with experts who can advise them through this transition.
IMTS See All

13 Sep 2024
DN Solutions America Unveils Impressive Chicago Technical Center at IMTS 2024
New tech center is serving as a cutting-edge showroom and a technological hub for advanced machining applications.

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.
Columns See All

19 Dec 2024
How Additive Can Complement Subtractive Manufacturing
Think of additive and subtractive as complementary processes, rather than being in opposition.

17 Dec 2024
A 100-Year-Old Measurement Tool That is Still Used Today
The reed mechanism was a breakthrough in high-precision measurement and is still used today for sub-micron or even nanometer resolution applications.

9 Dec 2024
CNC Machines, Wyoming Monks, and Enduring Works of Gothic Art
The Carmelite monks of Wyoming adopted CNC machining to help build a monastery that, without this technology, would take decades or longer to complete. How they are doing it is fascinating. But so is why.

3 Dec 2024
The Final CNC Tech Talk Column
Mike Lynch signs off on his CNC Tech Talk column after 35 years.

26 Nov 2024
Building Temperature Compensation Into the Gaging Station
As production tolerances become ever tighter and the error margin for measurement results shrinks, manufacturers must consider thermal fluctuations in their inspection processes.

21 Nov 2024
Prioritizing Workholding Density Versus Simplicity
Determining whether to use high-density fixtures or to simplify workholding requires a deeper look into the details of your parts and processes.
View From My Shop See All

24 Oct 2024
Inside Machineosaurus: Unique Job Shop with Dinosaur-Named CNC Machines, Four-Day Workweek & High-Precision Machining
Take a tour of Machineosaurus, a Massachusetts machine shop where every CNC machine is named after a dinosaur!

20 Aug 2024
Custom Motorcycle Parts Made Here: Video Tour of a Family-Owned CNC Machine Shop
Lee Wimmer invited us to tour his second-generation family-owned machine shop in Perkasie, PA. This video explores the production processes behind precision-machined parts for both Wimmer Custom Cycle and LS Wimmer Machine Co., and shows how ingenuity and determination are still at the heart of American manufacturing. Today, both companies are now managed by Wimmer’s three sons.

7 Jul 2024
Investing in New Technology at AccuRounds
AccuRounds has created synergy between culture and technology, driving a commitment to customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.

21 May 2024
The First American-Made Watch in a Half Century
In the latest episode of our View From My Shop series, MMS Editor-in-Chief Brent Donaldson visited the JN Shapiro Watches headquarters and production facility where Founder Joshua Shapiro—a history teacher turned watchmaker—realized his dream of "making a watch from scratch and everything in it."

17 Aug 2023
Lights Out Machining With An Automated 5-Axis Cell
Legacy Precision Molds takes us on a tour of their moldbuilding facility. They've recently implemented two automated 5-axis cells for metal and graphite machining that run lights out during nights and weekends.

24 May 2023
CNC Deburring OEM That Is Also A Job Shop
Take a look inside James Engineering, a high-end CNC Deburring OEM that became a job shop when they decided to produce their own parts in-house.
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

23 Sep 2024 Top Shops
Top Shops: Designing a Shop to Meet Customer Needs
Working closely with customers and making careful investments has enabled this Wisconsin machine shop to tackle difficult jobs with tight deadlines as a core part of its business.

11 Sep 2024 Aerospace
How a Custom ERP System Drives Automation in Large-Format Machining
Part of Major Tool’s 52,000 square-foot building expansion includes the installation of this new Waldrich Coburg Taurus 30 vertical machining center.

4 Sep 2024 Succession Planning
Creating a Learning Culture at JD Machine
JD Machine, 2024’s Top Shops Honoree in Human Resources, embodies its “Education for Life” core value with a robust apprenticeship program and significant continuous improvement efforts.

2 Sep 2024 Top Shops
Machine Shop Mastery: Insights from America’s Top Shops
Ever wonder what sets Top Shops apart from the competition? Dive into their award-winning practices and explore behind-the-scenes strategies for operational excellence.

30 Aug 2024 Turning Machines
The Human Impact of Machining Technology
SSP’s commitment to adopting the latest machining technology benefits not only the business, but its employees as well.

25 Jul 2024 Top Shops
Increasing Productivity with Digitalization and AI
Job shops are implementing automation and digitalization into workflows to eliminate set up time and increase repeatability in production.
Suppliers See All

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Videos See All

24 Oct 2024 Workforce Development
Inside Machineosaurus: Unique Job Shop with Dinosaur-Named CNC Machines, Four-Day Workweek & High-Precision Machining
Take a tour of Machineosaurus, a Massachusetts machine shop where every CNC machine is named after a dinosaur!

20 Aug 2024 Turning Machines
Custom Motorcycle Parts Made Here: Video Tour of a Family-Owned CNC Machine Shop
Lee Wimmer invited us to tour his second-generation family-owned machine shop in Perkasie, PA. This video explores the production processes behind precision-machined parts for both Wimmer Custom Cycle and LS Wimmer Machine Co., and shows how ingenuity and determination are still at the heart of American manufacturing. Today, both companies are now managed by Wimmer’s three sons.

7 Jul 2024 View From My Shop
Investing in New Technology at AccuRounds
AccuRounds has created synergy between culture and technology, driving a commitment to customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.

21 May 2024 View From My Shop
The First American-Made Watch in a Half Century
In the latest episode of our View From My Shop series, MMS Editor-in-Chief Brent Donaldson visited the JN Shapiro Watches headquarters and production facility where Founder Joshua Shapiro—a history teacher turned watchmaker—realized his dream of "making a watch from scratch and everything in it."

17 Aug 2023 View From My Shop
Lights Out Machining With An Automated 5-Axis Cell
Legacy Precision Molds takes us on a tour of their moldbuilding facility. They've recently implemented two automated 5-axis cells for metal and graphite machining that run lights out during nights and weekends.

24 May 2023 View From My Shop
CNC Deburring OEM That Is Also A Job Shop
Take a look inside James Engineering, a high-end CNC Deburring OEM that became a job shop when they decided to produce their own parts in-house.
News & Products See All

20 Dec 2024 Workholding
SMW Autoblok Workholding System Streamlines Changeovers
The TMS-2G system enables the operator to change the chuck in minutes accurately and securely, making it versatile for diverse metalworking requirements.

18 Dec 2024 Medical
Kennametal Turning Tools Enhance Small Part, Medical Machining
TopSwiss Micro Boring Solid tooling and KCU25B turning inserts are well suited for the small parts and medical machining space.

16 Dec 2024 CAD/CAM
SmartCAM Software Update Increases User Efficiency
SmartCAM v2025’s user interface and display features are said to improve the programmer’s efficiency and accuracy in the CNC program development process.

16 Dec 2024 Holemaking
Tungaloy Boring Toolholder Features Advanced Chip Evacuation
The TungBoreMini series includes an optimized chipbreaker and an advanced internal coolant supply system, which features two dedicated outlets for effective cooling and chip evacuation.

13 Dec 2024 Workholding
System 3R Workholding Lineup Provides Stable, Repeatable Clamping
System 3R’s self-centering vises and accessories are designed to provide high cutting performance and centering and repeat accuracy.

13 Dec 2024
Renishaw Announces Passing of Co-Founder, Sir David McMurtry
Sir David founded Renishaw in 1973 with John Deer to commercialize the 3D touch-trigger probe for coordinate measuring machines. He went on to be named on over 200 patents for Renishaw innovations.
Webinars See All

12 Feb 2025
Unlock the Future of Machining Large Components
Join Soraluce’s online event to discover advanced manufacturing solutions developed to tackle the challenges of machining large lightweight aluminum and composite components as well as large molds and dies. Soraluce’s new Dynamic Line, featuring High Rail Gantry Machines, is engineered for exceptional dynamic performance, precision and cutting power. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about this groundbreaking technology firsthand. Meet Soraluce’s Dynamic Line: HGA: a machine with a large work envelope oriented to the machining of light materials, such as aluminum or composite materials that are typical in the aerospace sector HGP: a machine of smaller overall dimensions (in terms of working area) but with extraordinary dynamic performance, oriented to mold and die sector HGR: a very versatile machine with high cutting capacity that’s ideal for a wide range of applications, such as molds and dies or components for capital equipment In this application-focused webinar, you'll learn how Soraluce's new Dynamic Line featuring High Rail Gantry Milling Machines were designed to tackle a wide range of machining challenges from lightweight materials like aluminum and composites used in aerospace to heavy-duty components such as large format molds and dies. Agenda: High rail design: discover the fundamental benefits of high-rail gantry architecture that make them ideal for high-volume metal removal rates on large components Accuracy, dynamics and cutting power: learn about thermal stability technology and rigidity for extreme accuracy, high-speed cutting in terms of acceleration and speeds and high cutting power capability 5-axis machining: discover a wide variety of 5-axis milling heads, ranging from those based on electrospindles to mechanical spindles Custom solutions: explore Soraluce’s innovative approach to machine customization, including flexible workspaces, head change systems, and advanced accessories like vacuum clamping and dust extraction systems

On Demand
Cutting Through the Confusion of Workholding Automation
No matter what your workholding application, automation always makes sense. Kurt Workholding helps you pick the right tool for the automation job — whether it be a single-vise setup or multiple vises holding large work pieces. This webinar will cover automation solutions using pneumatic, hydraulic and electronic actuation. Agenda: Most common types of vise automation solutions How to pick the right type of automation for an application Key differences between custom workholding and off-the-shelf automation solutions

On Demand
Hamilton Company’s Journey with Real-Time Production Monitoring
In this webinar, director of manufacturing Phil Linscheid will discuss how Hamilton Company has transformed its manufacturing operations with real-time production data. Learn how Phil and his team have increased throughput five times since 2017, while simultaneously improving production efficiency. Phil will share his journey over the past few years making strategic decisions to grow the machine shop’s impact as well as how his team uses MachineMetrics to improve production visibility, automate cycle time tracking, increase machine uptime and enable accurate quoting and planning. Agenda: Enabling production visibility in Nevada’s largest machine shop Improving quoting, planning and scheduling with accurate cycle times The importance of integrating shop floor data with operational systems

On Demand
The Future of Manufacturing: Top Trends in Digital Transformation for 2025
The digital landscape is evolving fast — are you ready for what’s ahead? Join SYSPRO Americas and Sam Gupta of ElevatIQ for exclusive insights into the key trends driving digital transformation in 2025. This webinar is perfect for business leaders, IT professionals and decision-makers across industries looking to prepare for the future. Whether you’re modernizing operations or staying ahead of industry disruptions, these trends will help shape your strategy for 2025 and beyond. Agenda: AI and automation Geopolitical shifts and cybersecurity risks Collaboration and data integration Sustainability and energy efficiency

On Demand
How Artificial Intelligence Can Improve Efficiency and Accuracy in Machine Shops
AI technology isn’t just a concept for the future—it’s here now, ready to transform your estimating process with the new AI BOM builder in JobBOSS². In this first-launch webinar, discover how AI can revolutionize bill of materials (BOM) entry in your shop, saving time, reducing errors and boosting efficiency. In this session, ECI will review how to use AI to build BOMs through a powerful feature that automates the extraction and input of BOM data from PDFs, Excel spreadsheets and images, all within JobBOSS². You'll have the opportunity to watch a live demonstration of the AI BOM builder in action — showcasing its ability to reduce BOM entry time from hours to mere minutes — thereby allowing you to focus on more strategic tasks. Additionally, you will learn about the real-world benefits of AI-driven BOM entry, including the minimization of manual errors, enhanced accuracy, and streamlined estimating processes — all of which can provide your shop with an immediate competitive edge. Finally, there will be a Q&A session with experts, giving you the chance to ask questions and find out how to integrate AI effectively. Agenda: Experience AI in action in a real-world manufacturing setting Discover how the AI BOM builder can immediately impact your shop’s efficiency and productivity Get hands-on insights on implementing AI to streamline your operations

On Demand
Streamlining Tool Crib Management: From CNC Programming to Machining
The tool crib is the backbone of any machine shop — without the right tools, nothing moves forward. While most ERP systems overlook the tool crib, ProShop integrates it seamlessly with CNC programming, job planning, scheduling and more. Join this webinar for an exclusive look at how Roush Yates Manufacturing Solutions leverages ProShop to document tool requirements, sync tool demand from CAM software and efficiently manage the tool crib and work instructions. Discover how ProShop transforms the tooling workflow to maximize efficiency and precision.

14 Jan 2025 New & Upcoming
How to Accelerate First Article Inspections and Save 70-90% of Your Time Register Now
Events See All

19 Feb 2025
Manufacturing Technology Meeting 2025
The MFG Meeting brings together manufacturing technology industry leaders to address key business challenges and provide actionable solutions. Sessions cover a wide range of topics, including workforce, economics, supply chain, leadership, politics, and more. This unique meeting experience provides unparalleled opportunities to network with executives from companies that make, sell, service, and support MT. These peers and competitors will learn from each other, build long-lasting connections, and share insights that will benefit their business.

5 Mar 2025
National Surface Finishing Day
Each year Products Finishing partners with thousands of finishing operations in the U.S. to celebrate National Surface Finishing Day (NSFD) on the first Wednesday in March. NSFD is designed to celebrate and showcase the industry to trade schools, businesses, officials and media, as well as to celebrate employees and staff. The overarching goal of NSFD is to bring further awareness to the important roles plating and coating facilities play in their communities. Facilities are encouraged to host events and work with local media to build awareness about the contributions made by the surface finishing industry. For a helpful guide to reaching out to media outlets, download the NSFD toolkit here. How can you celebrate? Share your company’s story Hold an open house where the public can check out your facility –— either in person or virtual Offer student shop tours to local trade schools Invite local elected officials to visit and get to know your staff Celebrate your employees Share news about what you’re doing on social media and use the hashtag #NationalSurfaceFinishingDay or #NSFD

11 Mar 2025
Industrial Finishing Safety Seminar
CCAI is offering a comprehensive Industrial Finishing Safety Seminar developed by industry experts well-versed in safety for finishing operations. This day-and-a-half seminar focuses on NFPA 33, the Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials and will deliver important and critical information on how to safely operate an industrial finishing line. Topics Covered: An introduction to safety Overview and definitions General requirements and electrostatic spray equipment Ventilation Storage handling and distribution Fire protection Operations, maintenance and training Drying and curing Liquid and powder coatings Authority Having Jurisdiction panel discussion Who Should Attend? Manufacturing, staff and environmental engineers (industrial health & safety) Lead painters Maintenance leads and personnel Finishing equipment designers System controls and project engineers Facility managers Finishing industry distributors Date: Tuesday, March 11 and Wednesday, March 12 Time: Tuesday - 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM and Wednesday 8:00 AM - Noon Location: Sames 45001 5 Mile Road Plymouth, MI 48170 Registration Fee: CCAI Members: $599 / Non-Members: $750 Registration Fee Includes: Classroom instruction; lunch on day one; a certificate of completion; and a printed copy of the NFPA 33 Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials. Registration: CLICK HERE to register. Space is limited.

18 Mar 2025
PTXPO 2025
PTXPO 2025 is a comprehensive showcase of cutting-edge technologies and innovations within the plastics molding industry. Join fellow molders, moldmakers, brand owners, OEMs and their full suite of suppliers in Rosemont, IL for three days of non-stop networking, education and business development opportunities.

1 Apr 2025
Precision Machining Technology Show (PMTS 2025)
Founded in 2001, PMTS reconvenes in April 2025 to celebrate its 13th biennial event for precision machining pros. Mark your calendar now and plan to join the precision machined parts community when we once again gather in person to share challenges and insights, see new technology solutions and learn about process innovations you can take back and immediately put into use in your own shop. The Precision Machining Technology Show is centered at the intersection of the industry's newest and most advanced product technologies, process innovations, business development prospects and personal career growth opportunities.

1 Apr 2025
PMPA National Technical Conference 2025
PMPA national meetings are a great way to meet face-to-face and develop strategic relationships. PMPA members have access to dynamic speakers, informative sessions and networking opportunities. Our events are tailored so that everyone has a change to learn: owners, management, shop floor personnel, engineers, human resources, etc.

10 Jan 2025 New & Upcoming
Detroit Auto Show Register Now
Ask the Expert See All

19 Dec 2024 Additive Manufacturing
How Additive Can Complement Subtractive Manufacturing
Think of additive and subtractive as complementary processes, rather than being in opposition.

21 Nov 2024 Workholding
Prioritizing Workholding Density Versus Simplicity
Determining whether to use high-density fixtures or to simplify workholding requires a deeper look into the details of your parts and processes.

6 Nov 2024
Should You Add Linear Scales to Your Machine?
Knowing how scales will influence machine accuracy will help you decide if they’re worth the extra investment.

31 Oct 2024 Metalworking Fluids
Considerations for Machining Coolant Care
Coolant care can be simply managed if you know where to pay attention and which hazards to look out for.

16 Sep 2024 Tooling
Tips for Fine-Tuning RPM
Thoughtful considerations will set you on a shortened path to the most optimized solution once cutter meets metal.

21 Aug 2024 Basics
Tips for Monitoring Spindle Loads and Cutting Stability
When it comes to utilizing the spindle’s power, there is a lot of headroom at the upper limits, provided it’s in short bursts. Be mindful of your time at these loads so you don’t stall out.
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Automation 20 Dec 2024

Smooth Operators: Vibration Compensation Improves Robot Performance
Additive Manufacturing 19 Dec 2024

How Additive Can Complement Subtractive Manufacturing
Toolholders 18 Dec 2024

PowRgrip Responds to Three Tooling Trends
Inspection and Measurement 17 Dec 2024

A 100-Year-Old Measurement Tool That is Still Used Today
CAD/CAM 16 Dec 2024

Cutting Part Programming Times Through AI
Economics 13 Dec 2024

Optimism Grows as Metalworking Index Improves Again in November
CAD/CAM 12 Dec 2024

Advanced CAMs Simplify Programming of Conical Barrel Cutters
Medical 11 Dec 2024

Supercritical Success for Medical Machining
Workforce Development 10 Dec 2024

Building Out a Foundation for Student Machinists
9 Dec 2024

CNC Machines, Wyoming Monks, and Enduring Works of Gothic Art

Published 2/25/2011

How Electro-Chemical Machining Works

Machine tool builder EMAG has produced a very nice video that explains and illustrates how the electro-chemical machining (ECM) process is able to perform simple deburring operations as well as produce precision surfaces and shapes.

Mark Albert

Editor Emeritus, Modern Machine Shop

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Electro-chemical machining (ECM) is a process by which metal is dissolved electrolytically as a means to remove burrs or create contours and other precision shapes. Machine tool builder EMAG, a company that also offers a line of ECM equipment, contrasts this process to “traditional” metalcutting processes. ECM produces no tool wear, no mechanical stresses, no heat, no surface oxidation and no other unwanted effects.

To show how ECM works and what it can do, EMAG has produced a video that presents ECM equipment in action, along with animations of the electrolysis taking place to remove burrs or create cavities and contours. It’s worth watching not only for its instructional value, but also as a reminder that thinking “non-traditionally” about machining processes may be the secret to successful solutions of difficult machining problems.

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