Articles

Additive Manufacturing 21 Jul 2018

Additive Manufacturing Is Driven By Materials

The July issue of Additive Manufacturing magazine looks at the ways that materials are enabling 3D-printing technology and opening up new applications.

CAD/CAM 20 Jul 2018

Manufacturing News of Note: July 2018

Successful tests of computer-aided manufacturing with barrel-nose cutters, Siemens PLM switches to new distribution regime for NX software and other industry news.

19 Jul 2018

NTMA Members Spotlight Shop Additions

While traveling with some members of the National Tooling and Machining Association, a few highlighted recent improvement efforts from which their operations have benefited a good deal.

Basics 18 Jul 2018

Developing Shopfloor Talent: Why "Vocational" Is Not a Dirty Word in Europe

Employing apprentices is a smart move because they can be trained to develop exactly the skills and knowledge your company wants them to have. But how do you find these apprentices and why does this concept work better in some countries than in others? A closer look at the German system and the Grob Group’s approach to training, which has replicated its Germany apprenticeship approach in the United States, reveals some insights.

How to Transition to Five-Axis Machining Based on Your Existing Machining Software

What often still scares many people about five-axis machining is the part programming, but systems have evolved to be much easier to use. Here’s how to implement five-axis based on your current machining software.

Inspection and Measurement 16 Jul 2018

Software Helps NASA Automate Robot Programming Process

A process being developed by the NASA Advanced Composites Project uses software to help automate the programming of collaborative robots for safe inspection of composite fuselage components alongside workers, providing more consistent results.

Shop Management Software 15 Jul 2018

PLM App Remedies Data Management Growing Pains

PLM software improved data management at a growing aerospace and defense manufacturer, but it was expensive and difficult to use. An app reduced the system’s cost and made it easier to use.

Data-Driven Manufacturing 14 Jul 2018

Metrology Makes Manufacturing Smart

Realizing the full promise of data-driven manufacturing could require rethinking the role of quality control, both in individual operations and throughout the supply chain.

Passive/Dynamic Vibration Damping: How It Works

The best way to control unwanted vibration is with passive/dynamic systems that utilize tuned mass damper concepts to absorb vibration before it progresses and disrupts the machining process. Here’s how it works.

12 Jul 2018

Machining Technology Trip to Japan

A recent trip with NTMA members to Okuma and Big Daishowa manufacturing facilities provided the opportunity to learn about their in-house production capabilities and new machining technology offerings.