MMS Blog

Here’s What a Voice-Controlled Machine Shop Could Look Like

Voice-control technology has entered the machine tool scene, and companies like Makino are now setting their eyes toward using it to connect more equipment on the shop floor.

6 Dec 2018

Shops Outside the Core Set of Buyers Are Driving Machine Tool Consumption

Spending by the so-called “marginal buyer” (typically a small shop that purchases machines on a discretionary basis) is the dominant factor in today’s market.

Basics 5 Dec 2018

Three Expectations for Robotic Automation

Shops take some modern robot capabilities as given, but a recent trade show in Japan demonstrated ways those capabilities continue to improve.

Workforce Development 4 Dec 2018

Rise Up Industries’ Machine Training Program Rises Up to Help on Many Levels

This CNC machine-operator training program helps individuals prepare for sustainable employment as a vital element for successful reentry into society and departure from gang life.

3 Dec 2018

An Editor’s Vantage Point Helps the Metalworking Industry

Long ago, I told a story about being an editor in metalworking and the value of the vantage point it gave me. The point of that story is still true today.

Economics 2 Dec 2018

Metalworking Index: Strong Production and Supplier Deliveries Decrease Backlog Growth

The Gardner Business Index (GBI): Metalworking’s November reading of 54.7 marks the 23rd consecutive month of expansion.

Basics 1 Dec 2018

How to Continuously Improve Your Machine Shop

Monthly Kaizen events could help your company improve operations in 12 ways.

Turn/Mill 1 Dec 2018

Maximizing Machines, Empowering the Machinist: The Art of Shop Floor Efficiency

When the Great Recession hit Linda Tool, leadership for the 66-year-old machine shop decided against cutting staff. Instead, they made a series of strategic investments and decisions around five-axis machining that has allowed them to scale up the business without increasing headcount.