MMS Blog

8 Dec 2014

December Digital Edition Now Available

The digital edition of Modern Machine Shop's December issue is now available.

Automation 4 Dec 2014

Spotlight Slideshow: Machining Centers

Automatic pallet changers and support for automation are some popular features of recently released machining centers. View the December slideshow for more on these machines.

Workholding 2 Dec 2014

Got Glue (And UV Light)?

Here’s an effective albeit atypical way to fixture parts such as thin-wall castings that are prone to flexing when conventional mechanical clamps are used.

Inspection and Measurement 1 Dec 2014

Video Measuring System Ensures Diamond Quality for Waterjets

A CNC video measuring system from Nikon Metrology helps Diamond Technology Innovations produce a more accurate diamond waterjet orifice.

1 Dec 2014

U.S. Investment in Machine Tools Poised to Reach Remarkable Level

Spending on machine tools is projected to be way up next year. The latest Capital Spending survey indicates an eye-popping 37 percent increase in capital equipment purchases in 2015. What does this mean to you?

Automotive 28 Nov 2014

Build the Machine around the Workpiece

Rather than fitting a part into an existing machine, modular machining units enable building a custom machine particularly suited for that workpiece. This approach is best for large production runs of specialized parts.

Workforce Development 26 Nov 2014

Hiring Consultant Shares How to Evaluate Soft Skills

A shop we recently profiled has changed its hiring practices to favor personal strengths over manufacturing skills. The consultant working with this shop elaborates, giving tips for manufacturing hiring including how to identify these strengths.

Titanium Machining 25 Nov 2014

The Anatomy of an End Mill for Titanium

Titanium is often characterized as a “challenging workpiece material.” Certainly, machining this material is a challenge to milling machines, cutting tools and workholding accessories that are suitable for machining more common materials such as mild steel, cast iron or aluminum.

Titanium Machining 25 Nov 2014

A Compact but Rigid VMC for Machining Titanium Blades

In recent years, machine tool builders have developed models specifically designed for the efficient machining of titanium and other hard metals.

Toolholders 25 Nov 2014

Expanded Anti-Pullout System Enables Secure Titanium Milling with ER Collet Systems

Because of the extreme forces involved in machining titanium and other hard metals, it is necessary to take precautions to avoid pullout—the tendency for a cutting tool such as an end mill to gradually loosen in its holder and possibly be twisted out entirely.