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Don't Overlook Tank Cleanout
When recharging metalworking fluids, a thorough tank cleanout should be performed so contaminants in the tank don't deteriorate the fresh fluid. Here is a ten-step procedure for doing so.
Read MoreMagnetic Holding Pattern
In finding a way to allow magnetic milling chucks to hold parts that typically aren’t secured by the "invisible" workholding method, this shop happened upon a means to repeatedly position parts in any of its machine tools.
Read MoreA Quick Look Inside Internal Thread Whirling
Using choreographed movement of workpiece and oscillating tool, internal thread whirling can produce difficult helical threads inside parts such as ballscrew nuts.
Read MoreUnplug-And-Play Hydraulic Workholding
An OEM and contract shop have found value in an unconventional, untethered hydraulic workholding method that uses mechanical energy transfer to charge a fixture's sealed hydraulic circuit. Free and easy HMC pallet movement is the result.
Read MoreA Simpler Way To Automatically Load Grinding Machines
Custom automatic loading systems for grinding machines often lack the flexibility to allow quick job change-overs. These off-the-shelf loading systems were designed with intuitive set up in mind.
Read MoreIncremental Automation Pays Dividends
While successful mold makers agree that automation is necessary to remain competitive, they often have different opinions about how to integrate automation. This mold maker does it in gradual phases, and in doing so, it drives shopfloor workers to roles of greater responsibility.
Read MoreAdapting And Advancing
Assistive technologies for machinery and shop equipment allow blind workers at this machine shop to assume more advanced, independent roles in the production of aerospace components for Boeing.
Read MoreOptimize Cutting Efficiency, Optimize Throughput
A machining process based on maximizing cutting efficiency, rather than speeds and feeds, offers aerospace component manufacturers an option to high speed machining when high material removal rates are required. The best strategy may be to apply both machining concepts.
Read MoreIs Robotic Automation Becoming Practical For Low-Volume Production?
High-volume manufacturing and robotic automation go hand in hand. Machine-tending robots used in these production schemes need not be very flexible, as they may just load and unload one type of part hundreds of thousands of times.
Read MoreCreating A Machine Shop Franchise Template
This contract shop applies basic franchising concepts to maximize efficiency in all aspects of its business. Its intent is not to sow multiple franchise locations, but rather to make its sole facility perform as predictably and profitably as possible.
Read MoreDeveloping A Safer Way To Machine Magnesium
Machining magnesium is risky business, as the chips and dust generated are flammable. A research consortium has developed a novel way to extract magnesium particles out of the machine by vacuuming them through a hollow tool and spindle during machining.
Read MoreMachining More Than Meets The Eye
Manufacturing parts that may be smaller than the chips generated during machining requires more than just the right cutting tool and machine. It requires a micro-mindset that focuses on all aspects of tiny parts processing--handling, inspection, finishing and assembly.
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