MMS Blog

Basics 24 Dec 2014

Webinar: Choosing an ERP System

ERP helps manufacturers address common pressures and realize best-in-class capabilities. A recorded presentation describes how to select an ERP system.

Aerospace 22 Dec 2014

The Case for Off-Site Innovation

Okuma says the point of its aerospace technology center is to provide a place for manufacturers to perform all the trial-and-error they need to perfect a new process. It’s also a place to find and consult with sources of up-to-date manufacturing technology expertise.

Automation 19 Dec 2014

Get Smart about Manufacturing Intelligence

This white paper from Sandvik Coromant is a succinct, readable overview of the so-called fourth industrial revolution. The big message is: Get ready for it now because it is both a huge challenge and a fantastic opportunity.

Laser & Waterjet 17 Dec 2014

Plasma Cutting on a Waterjet

While waterjets are known for cutting accuracy, they can be slower and more costly to operate than other machines. Equipping waterjets with other capabilities—such as plasma cutting—can save time and boost productivity.

Milling Tools 16 Dec 2014

Cutting Tool Edge Prep: The Invisible Advantage

Edge preparation involves removing material from a cutting tool in order to extend its life. That may sound counterintuitive, but a maker of glass molds says edge prep has dramatically reduced the amount it spends on tools.

Turning Tools 16 Dec 2014

Second Chances for Surplus Tools

A new website aims to give shops with excess tooling a way to sell that tooling to other shops. Cutting tool suppliers are using the site for their own excess tools.

Data-Driven Manufacturing 16 Dec 2014

Marketing as a Real-Time Metric

Employees of this shop can look up from their work at any time to see how well the company is doing at both shipping jobs to current customers and reaching out to customers of the future.

Economics 15 Dec 2014

November MBI Growth Remains Steady

With a reading of 51.3, Gardner’s Metalworking Business Index showed that the industry grew in November for the 11th consecutive month and the 13th time in 14 months, at a rate slightly faster than October. The month-over-month rate of growth was just 2.0 percent, which was the second slowest rate of growth since August 2013, and the annual rate of growth decelerated for the second month in a row.