Repairing damaged or worn threads on a workpiece is a common chore for toolroom lathes, especially in the oilfield industry. Haas Automation has a new feature for its conversational control units that simplifies and automates this process.
When I hear people say that their company is like family or that a shop has a family atmosphere, I often wonder what kind of family they have in mind. All of us have different experiences of family.
When Briggs & Stratton decided to make the crankshaft machining lines in its Poplar Bluff plant globally competitive, it had to choose between CNC lathes and dedicated special machines for its main turning operations. The company chose the lathes.
In manufacturing, reacting to measurement data in a timely fashion is critical. A fast response to undesirable trends can prevent scrap or rework. The problem is, it can be slow and cumbersome to collect, deliver and analyze measurement data. Recent efforts to expedite this process have included shop-wide cable networks with bar code readers and other automated devices. The latest development along these lines is wireless data handling.
At the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS), Modern Machine Shop had a couple of interesting “workpieces” on display (Booth B-1001). Both featured raised letters: “IMTS” on one and our magazine logo on the other.
The International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS) takes place every 2 years whether the industry is on a roll or in a slump. Right now, things are generally looking pretty good, at least outside the auto industry.
The demand for fast hole making will intensify as more fuel-efficient jet engines are introduced. Electrical discharge machining is emerging as the answer.
It is often said that, to be successful in manufacturing, you have to have a passion for it. Sometimes, however, having a passion for your customers’ passion is important, too.