Mark Albert

Mark Albert Editor Emeritus

When It Comes to Cybersecurity, Be Scared, but Be Prepared

Warnings about threats to internet-enabled networks in manufacturing plants should be taken seriously without giving in to alarmist overreactions. The risks are real, but manageable, while the benefits are too compelling to forego.

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Basics

A New Turning Process Enables Cutting “In Reverse”

A methodology for cutting in both directions on a CNC lathe promises to make turning a much more productive operation in certain applications. New types of inserts driven by new CAM tool paths are key enablers of this development, but implementing the whole multifaceted system as a system is essential.

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EDM

A Stitch in Time—A New Core Retention Function for Wire EDM

When running a wire EDM such as the FANUC RoboCut C800iB, an automatic routine in the CNC program adds a "stitch" at a few strategically placed locations around the periphery of the core. By holding the cores in place until the entire job is finished, multi-workpiece cutting processes are able to run in an extended, unmanned mode.

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Grinding

Flat Honing Advances with In-Process Measurement

Single-sided machining with a grinding wheel now offers a more productive alternative to single-sided lapping and polishing processes. The key is an in-process measurement system that enables a flat honing machine to adjust wheel pressure automatically for consistent results.

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Automation

Great Technology + Great People = Outstanding Parts

These words explain the logic—and the passion—that drives applications of automation in manufacturing. Sadly, many pundits don’t get this.

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Five-Axis

The Key to Success with Flexible Machining Cells Is People

This aerospace component manufacturer is committed to flexible machining cells for producing complex parts for the latest commercial airliner programs. Its newest cell adds both capacity and capability—and takes the company to a new level of commitment.

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Highlights from Hyundai Wia’s Technology Center

This builder’s machine tool offerings are remarkably diverse. Its technology center has a sample of these machines, ranging from a “commodity” VMC to a five-axis contouring machine, with models for multitasking, hard turning, mold making and production applications in between.

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Is “Why Bother?” the Most Urgent Question of Our Time?

This is a question that should bother us a great deal, because how individuals answer it affects the rest of society.

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Basics

Why Is U.S. Automotive Manufacturing Strong Right Now?

That’s a big question, but some facts and figures reveal a few of the facets of this industry’s current vitality.

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A Waterjet Machining Center that Fits

At first, abrasive waterjet machines were naturally at home in the fabricating shop. Today, certain models resemble a typical, fully enclosed CNC machine and they fit well in a machining job shop setting.

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Basics

Look Beyond Machine Utilization When Installing a Machine-Monitoring System

Connecting machines to a network for production monitoring almost guarantees that utilization will go up, but that’s only the first step toward data-driven manufacturing.

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A New Era of Ethics

Companies that do what is right will do well. And everyone is watching.

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Methods
Hyundai WIA SE2600SY
Mastercam 2025 Now Available
Horn USA
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