Metalworking’s leading information resource

All Topics See All

Additive Manufacturing

Aerospace

Automation

Automotive

Basics

CAD/CAM

CNC & Machine Controls

CNC Tech Talks

Composites Machining

Cutting Tools

Data-Driven Manufacturing

Deburring

Die/Mold

Digital Demos

Economics

EDM

Five-Axis

Grinding

High-Speed Machining

Holemaking

Horizontal Machining Centers

IMTS

Inspection and Measurement

Large Part Machining

Laser & Waterjet

Lean Manufacturing

Machines

Machining Centers

Measurement

Medical

Metalworking Fluids

Micromachining

Milling Tools

Oil & Gas

Parts Cleaning

PMTS

Shop Management Software

Software

Succession Planning

Titanium Machining

Toolholders

Tooling

Top Shops

Turn/Mill

Turning Machines

Turning Tools

Vertical Machining Centers

View From My Shop

Workforce Development

Workholding
Machine Tools See All

17 Jan 2025
When to Use 3+2 Versus Full Five-Axis for Finishing Operations
Consider the entire system — along with your goals — when deciding between a full five-axis or a 3+2 approach.

15 Jan 2025
OEMs Showcase Hybrid Manufacturing Applications
Mazak and Mastercam worked together to demonstrate the viability of hybrid additive/subtractive machining techniques at a recent event held in Florence, Kentucky.

11 Dec 2024
Supercritical Success for Medical Machining
High-pressure carbon dioxide coolant can dramatically improve the production rate of titanium parts while leaving no residue — an excellent fit for medical machining.

5 Dec 2024
How to Automate a Prototyping Shop
By focusing machine tending on pallets rather than individual parts, KAD Models has automated its high-mix, low-volume workload — and thrived as a result.

4 Dec 2024
Inside a CNC-Machined Gothic Monastery in Wyoming
An inside look into the Carmelite Monks of Wyoming, who are combining centuries-old Gothic architectural principles with modern CNC machining to build a monastery in the mountains of Wyoming.

25 Nov 2024
Three Key Factors For Stabilizing a Grinding Operation
Improving throughput in grinding takes more than direct increases to material removal rate. It also requires careful consideration of the factors behind the operation’s stability.
Tooling See All

22 Jan 2025
Picking the Right End Mill
Kennametal global product manager Katie Myers explains how cutting tool features can impact machining strategies for different materials.

10 Jan 2025
Inside the Process of Cutting Tool Recycling
Global Tungsten & Powders, part of the Ceratizit Group, sheds light on the processing steps that convert a shop’s used inserts into new tools and other applications.

6 Jan 2025
Indexable Drill Heads Double Profitability
Moving to a robust line of indexable drills enabled this shop to dramatically alter the manufacturing process for a problem part, doubling its profitability.

23 Dec 2024
Measuring Torque, Thrust Force for Smart Drilling Operations
To monitor drilling operations for smart manufacturing solutions, torque and thrust force can be measured.

18 Dec 2024
PowRgrip Responds to Three Tooling Trends
Rego-Fix’s PowRgrip tooling system has expanded over the past 20 years to incorporate a wider range of tool sizes, as well as automation.

12 Dec 2024
Advanced CAMs Simplify Programming of Conical Barrel Cutters
Conical barrel cutters have grown in popularity thanks to the large stepovers that reduce the time needed for some finishing processes, but advanced CAM systems can dramatically improve their usefulness.
Software See All

10 Jan 2025
Mastercam Announces Leadership Transition, Acquires FASTech Inc.
Russ Bukowski has been appointed to the position of interim president.

8 Jan 2025
JIMTOF 2024 Report: EVs, AI and Autonomous Robots Abound
The 2024 Japan International Machine Tool Fair (JIMTOF) showed how the manufacturing industry is adapting to the needs of electric vehicle manufacturing and adopting new technology including AI and autonomous robots.

2 Jan 2025
Setting Up the Building Blocks for a Digital Factory
Woodward Inc. spent over a year developing an API to connect machines to its digital factory. Caron Engineering’s MiConnect has cut most of this process while also granting the shop greater access to machine information.

12 Dec 2024
Advanced CAMs Simplify Programming of Conical Barrel Cutters
Conical barrel cutters have grown in popularity thanks to the large stepovers that reduce the time needed for some finishing processes, but advanced CAM systems can dramatically improve their usefulness.

2 Dec 2024
How I Made It: Mike Lynch
Mike Lynch has been a CNC programming teacher for three decades, in addition to being the longest-running columnist in Modern Machine Shop history, providing generations of machinists with expert insight into the art of programming parts. With this issue being Mike’s last, we wanted to highlight his career and what it means for the industry.

13 Nov 2024
Four Questions (& Answers) About Data-Driven Process Improvement at CNC Job Shops
How can shops can make informed decisions using data-driven feedback to improve shopfloor efficiency and profitability? And how will these technologies differ between high- and low-volume production?
Measurement See All

16 Jan 2025
Automating Double-Flank Gear Testing
The form and surface finish of individual gears are becoming more demanding. Automated double-flank rolling tests are a particularly realistic measurement that simulates the behavior of the gears in operation.

23 Dec 2024
Measuring Torque, Thrust Force for Smart Drilling Operations
To monitor drilling operations for smart manufacturing solutions, torque and thrust force can be measured.

17 Dec 2024
A 100-Year-Old Measurement Tool That is Still Used Today
The reed mechanism was a breakthrough in high-precision measurement and is still used today for sub-micron or even nanometer resolution applications.

26 Nov 2024
Building Temperature Compensation Into the Gaging Station
As production tolerances become ever tighter and the error margin for measurement results shrinks, manufacturers must consider thermal fluctuations in their inspection processes.

18 Nov 2024
Visible Touch: Tactile Sensor Enables Multi-Purpose Inspection
Not only can Gelsight’s tactile sensor detect and evaluate defects, but it can also measure part features, surface roughness and even contamination.

23 Oct 2024
3 Tips for Properly Making Form Measurements
Determining the shape of a workpiece is required in many manufacturing processes. Keep in mind these important points to ensure that you master the process.
Automation See All

23 Jan 2025
Why We Ask Machine Shop Leaders to Speak TASC – The Automated Shop Conference
Ready to share your CNC automation triumphs (without giving away the entire recipe)? TASC is our industry’s premier peer-to-peer automation stage where America’s shop leaders unite, inspire and refine the art of metalworking. Here’s why stepping into the spotlight at TASC could be your smartest move toward elevating your shop.

22 Jan 2025
Methods Machine Tools, Multiaxis LLC, Announce AI Solution Investment
Multiaxis Intelligence will feature user-based digital twin for the manufacturing workforce.

15 Jan 2025
The HEH Group Expands Automation Offerings With Agile Robotic Systems
Agile Robotic Systems are well suited for CNC machine-tending applications, automating metrology systems and more.

8 Jan 2025
JIMTOF 2024 Report: EVs, AI and Autonomous Robots Abound
The 2024 Japan International Machine Tool Fair (JIMTOF) showed how the manufacturing industry is adapting to the needs of electric vehicle manufacturing and adopting new technology including AI and autonomous robots.

2 Jan 2025
Setting Up the Building Blocks for a Digital Factory
Woodward Inc. spent over a year developing an API to connect machines to its digital factory. Caron Engineering’s MiConnect has cut most of this process while also granting the shop greater access to machine information.

23 Dec 2024
Measuring Torque, Thrust Force for Smart Drilling Operations
To monitor drilling operations for smart manufacturing solutions, torque and thrust force can be measured.
TASC See All

23 Jan 2025 Automation
Why We Ask Machine Shop Leaders to Speak TASC – The Automated Shop Conference
Ready to share your CNC automation triumphs (without giving away the entire recipe)? TASC is our industry’s premier peer-to-peer automation stage where America’s shop leaders unite, inspire and refine the art of metalworking. Here’s why stepping into the spotlight at TASC could be your smartest move toward elevating your shop.

10 Oct 2024 Machines
IMTS 2024: Trends & Takeaways From the Modern Machine Shop Editorial Team
The Modern Machine Shop editorial team highlights their takeaways from IMTS 2024 in a video recap.

9 Sep 2024 Basics
10 Tips to Make the Most of IMTS
IMTS only happens every two years. Here’s how to make the most of your time at the 2024 show.

23 Oct 2023 Automation
Takeaways From TASC
Across a range of technical presentations aimed at small and mid-sized job shops, the first-ever Automated Shop Conference (TASC) offered insights into several automated technologies, implementation strategies, shopfloor training tips, and even the untapped power of automated coolant delivery.

26 Sep 2023 Automation
3 TASC Topics That Touch on Automation Considerations for Job Shops
Automation is no longer a luxury in manufacturing today – it’s a necessity. The Automated Shop Conference (TASC) will connect job shops with experts who offer advice and considerations for this process.

21 Sep 2023 Automation
4 Lessons Your Shop Will Take Away From TASC
The Automated Shop Conference (TASC) will give shops of all sizes and production volumes key insights and practical guidance on how to implement automation.
IMTS See All

13 Sep 2024
DN Solutions America Unveils Impressive Chicago Technical Center at IMTS 2024
New tech center is serving as a cutting-edge showroom and a technological hub for advanced machining applications.

13 Sep 2024
Coming to McCormick Place in April: Additive FOR Manufacturing at Formnext Chicago
New U.S.-based event announced in 2021 finally debuts next year: focuses on complete additive manufacturing value chain. More at formnextchicago.com.

12 Sep 2024
Chiron Group Unveils Virtual Showroom & Live Demos at IMTS 2024
Chiron Group combines the best of both worlds at IMTS 2024, featuring live demonstrations of their Micro5 and Mill 2000 machines, alongside a cutting-edge virtual showroom. This innovative approach allows visitors to explore Chiron’s full product lineup without the logistical challenges of transporting large equipment.

12 Sep 2024
JTEKT Debuts Eight Machines at IMTS
Half of the 16 machines in the company’s booth are world or North American debuts.

12 Sep 2024
Go Big or Go Home: Hwacheon Displays a Wide Variety of Machinery at IMTS 2024
Learn more about the variety of technology and machinery Hwacheon Machinery America, Inc. is featuring at its IMTS 2024 booth.

12 Sep 2024
FANUC Details Robotic Vision, ROBODRILLS and More at IMTS 2024
FANUC’s IMTS 2024 booth includes real-time demonstrations that show the abilities of its equipment, including robots, controllers and machine tools.
Columns See All

23 Jan 2025
Why We Ask Machine Shop Leaders to Speak TASC – The Automated Shop Conference
Ready to share your CNC automation triumphs (without giving away the entire recipe)? TASC is our industry’s premier peer-to-peer automation stage where America’s shop leaders unite, inspire and refine the art of metalworking. Here’s why stepping into the spotlight at TASC could be your smartest move toward elevating your shop.

17 Jan 2025
When to Use 3+2 Versus Full Five-Axis for Finishing Operations
Consider the entire system — along with your goals — when deciding between a full five-axis or a 3+2 approach.

16 Jan 2025
Automating Double-Flank Gear Testing
The form and surface finish of individual gears are becoming more demanding. Automated double-flank rolling tests are a particularly realistic measurement that simulates the behavior of the gears in operation.

1 Jan 2025
5 Ways CNC Job Shops Can Gain Visibility and Influence in the Industry
As machine shops navigate economic and political uncertainty, Modern Machine Shop offers a chance to share their stories, influence the conversation and seize new opportunities.

19 Dec 2024
How Additive Can Complement Subtractive Manufacturing
Think of additive and subtractive as complementary processes, rather than being in opposition.

17 Dec 2024
A 100-Year-Old Measurement Tool That is Still Used Today
The reed mechanism was a breakthrough in high-precision measurement and is still used today for sub-micron or even nanometer resolution applications.
View From My Shop See All

9 Jan 2025
Shop Tour Video: From Garage Shop to Leading Aerospace Supplier
From repairing aircraft interiors to manufacturing medical implants, Superior Joining Technologies excels at CNC machining, TIG welding, laser welding, and NADCAP-accredited nondestructive testing. Discover how this Rockford-based company supports the aerospace industry through a combination of advanced technologies.

24 Oct 2024
Inside Machineosaurus: Unique Job Shop with Dinosaur-Named CNC Machines, Four-Day Workweek & High-Precision Machining
Take a tour of Machineosaurus, a Massachusetts machine shop where every CNC machine is named after a dinosaur!

20 Aug 2024
Custom Motorcycle Parts Made Here: Video Tour of a Family-Owned CNC Machine Shop
Lee Wimmer invited us to tour his second-generation family-owned machine shop in Perkasie, PA. This video explores the production processes behind precision-machined parts for both Wimmer Custom Cycle and LS Wimmer Machine Co., and shows how ingenuity and determination are still at the heart of American manufacturing. Today, both companies are now managed by Wimmer’s three sons.

7 Jul 2024
Investing in New Technology at AccuRounds
AccuRounds has created synergy between culture and technology, driving a commitment to customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.

21 May 2024
The First American-Made Watch in a Half Century
In the latest episode of our View From My Shop series, MMS Editor-in-Chief Brent Donaldson visited the JN Shapiro Watches headquarters and production facility where Founder Joshua Shapiro—a history teacher turned watchmaker—realized his dream of "making a watch from scratch and everything in it."

17 Aug 2023
Lights Out Machining With An Automated 5-Axis Cell
Legacy Precision Molds takes us on a tour of their moldbuilding facility. They've recently implemented two automated 5-axis cells for metal and graphite machining that run lights out during nights and weekends.
Made in the USA Podcast See All

11 Apr 2023
Made in the USA - Season 2 Episode 6: Why, and How, Hardinge is Reshoring Machine Tool Production
In this episode of Made in the USA, several executives and senior staff at Hardinge give their first-person account of how they formulated the plan to shift the manufacturing of its milling and turning product lines from its Taiwan plant to its plant in Elmira, New York, the major challenges they encountered and the rewards that made it worth the effort.

7 Mar 2023
Made in the USA - Season 2 Episode 4: A Measured Approach
The L.S. Starrett Co. has been manufacturing precision measurement tools in Athol, Massachusetts, since 1880. Attention to U.S. manufacturing often focuses on reshoring manufacturing from other countries, but Starrett never left. The facility in Athol employs hundreds and produces thousands of tools that remain vital for measurement in machining and other fields.

21 Feb 2023
Made in the USA - Season 2 Episode 3: The Robots Come Home
The latest episode “Made in the USA” podcast explores a company that uses collaborative robots, one of the key tools helping US machine shops and other manufacturers compete with lower cost countries by automating production.

7 Feb 2023
Made in the USA - Season 2 Episode 2: Man, No Smoke!
When Puneet and Neelam Neotia moved from India to the United States several years ago, they brought with them a family background in manufacturing and CNC machining. Now the couple is working to get their startup machine shop off the ground, sourcing new customers and getting the word out about their shop in Clarksville, Indiana. The couple — proud to publicize their "Made in the USA" parts — is leveraging family connections and manufacturing capabilities back in India, but not in the way that some people assume.

24 Jan 2023
Made in the USA - Season 2 Episode 1: A Return From China
Entrepreneur Scott Colosimo found early success in China producing parts for his Cleveland-based motorcycle company in the mid-2000s. This is the story of how IP theft issues overwhelmed the business, prompting Colosimo and his team to start over from scratch — and move production back to the United States.

12 Jan 2023
Made in the USA – Season 1 Episode 6: The Way Forward
So far, Made in the USA has looked into system-wide effects of broken supply chains, automation, skilled workforce issues and our perception of manufacturing jobs — examining each topic through a prism of individual experiences. For this final episode for Season 1, let’s look at one more system-wide question and bring it back to personal perspectives: Is there today a new dawn, a new moment for American manufacturing?
Top Shops Benchmarking See All

23 Sep 2024 Top Shops
Top Shops: Designing a Shop to Meet Customer Needs
Working closely with customers and making careful investments has enabled this Wisconsin machine shop to tackle difficult jobs with tight deadlines as a core part of its business.

11 Sep 2024 Top Shops
How a Custom ERP System Drives Automation in Large-Format Machining
Part of Major Tool’s 52,000 square-foot building expansion includes the installation of this new Waldrich Coburg Taurus 30 vertical machining center.

4 Sep 2024 Top Shops
Creating a Learning Culture at JD Machine
JD Machine, 2024’s Top Shops Honoree in Human Resources, embodies its “Education for Life” core value with a robust apprenticeship program and significant continuous improvement efforts.

2 Sep 2024 Top Shops
Machine Shop Mastery: Insights from America’s Top Shops
Ever wonder what sets Top Shops apart from the competition? Dive into their award-winning practices and explore behind-the-scenes strategies for operational excellence.

30 Aug 2024 Turning Machines
The Human Impact of Machining Technology
SSP’s commitment to adopting the latest machining technology benefits not only the business, but its employees as well.

25 Jul 2024 Automation
Increasing Productivity with Digitalization and AI
Job shops are implementing automation and digitalization into workflows to eliminate set up time and increase repeatability in production.
Suppliers See All

Additive Manufacturing

Controls & Software

Cutting Tools

Inspection & Measuring

Machine Tool Components & Accessories

Materials

Metal Cutting Machine Tools & Equipment

Plant Equipment & Supplies

Services

Special Purpose Equipment

Workholding & Handling

Get Listed!
Thousands of people visit our Supplier Guide every day to source equipment and materials. Get in front of them with a free company profile.
Request Your Free Listing
Videos See All

9 Jan 2025 Aerospace
Shop Tour Video: From Garage Shop to Leading Aerospace Supplier
From repairing aircraft interiors to manufacturing medical implants, Superior Joining Technologies excels at CNC machining, TIG welding, laser welding, and NADCAP-accredited nondestructive testing. Discover how this Rockford-based company supports the aerospace industry through a combination of advanced technologies.

24 Oct 2024 View From My Shop
Inside Machineosaurus: Unique Job Shop with Dinosaur-Named CNC Machines, Four-Day Workweek & High-Precision Machining
Take a tour of Machineosaurus, a Massachusetts machine shop where every CNC machine is named after a dinosaur!

20 Aug 2024 Turning Machines
Custom Motorcycle Parts Made Here: Video Tour of a Family-Owned CNC Machine Shop
Lee Wimmer invited us to tour his second-generation family-owned machine shop in Perkasie, PA. This video explores the production processes behind precision-machined parts for both Wimmer Custom Cycle and LS Wimmer Machine Co., and shows how ingenuity and determination are still at the heart of American manufacturing. Today, both companies are now managed by Wimmer’s three sons.

7 Jul 2024 View From My Shop
Investing in New Technology at AccuRounds
AccuRounds has created synergy between culture and technology, driving a commitment to customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.

21 May 2024 View From My Shop
The First American-Made Watch in a Half Century
In the latest episode of our View From My Shop series, MMS Editor-in-Chief Brent Donaldson visited the JN Shapiro Watches headquarters and production facility where Founder Joshua Shapiro—a history teacher turned watchmaker—realized his dream of "making a watch from scratch and everything in it."

17 Aug 2023 View From My Shop
Lights Out Machining With An Automated 5-Axis Cell
Legacy Precision Molds takes us on a tour of their moldbuilding facility. They've recently implemented two automated 5-axis cells for metal and graphite machining that run lights out during nights and weekends.
News & Products See All

22 Jan 2025 Measurement
Davi Laser Measuring System Adds AI to Plate Rolling
The iVision system features a laser head that moves up and down in the vertical axis as well as tilts, which is said to put the laser blade in the ideal position for measuring a radius regardless of its size.

22 Jan 2025 Automation
Methods Machine Tools, Multiaxis LLC, Announce AI Solution Investment
Multiaxis Intelligence will feature user-based digital twin for the manufacturing workforce.

20 Jan 2025 Inspection and Measurement
Nikon Inspection Systems Provide Stable, Micron-Level Measurement
Nikon’s NEXIV VMF-K Series is a high-performance video measuring system that is said to significantly improve measurement throughput.

20 Jan 2025 Automation
Thomson Industries Cobot Transfer Unit Features Collision Detection
The Movotrak cobot transfer unit features collision detection that stops the cobot when it encounters an obstacle, facilitating collaboration and increasing productivity.

17 Jan 2025
OSG Announces Leadership Changes
Jeff Tennant has been promoted to the position of CEO, and Donna Gialo to the position of VP of marketing and operations.

17 Jan 2025 Tooling
Platinum Live Tooling Supports Range of Applications
All Base Mount Tooling is supplied with Heimatec’s U-Tec changing system, which is said to provide flexibility to standard ER collet systems.
Webinars See All

18 Feb 2025
Choosing the Right CAM Software for Your Business
Is your current CAM system meeting your needs? Are you considering a new solution but unsure where to start? Finding the CAM system that aligns with your specific needs requires consideration of several factors, such as CNC machine types, software functionality, time constraints, level of support and budget. This webinar is designed to help you navigate the complex landscape of CAM software and make an informed decision about the CAM system that aligns with your specific needs. Agenda: Receive expert tips on how to approach the task of evaluating CAM software and avoid common pitfalls Get a list of helpful questions to identify your most important requirements and pain points Understand the latest technologies and functionality available in today’s CAM systems to stay competitive See a demonstration of fully integrated CAD/CAM to understand how it could fit your operations

On Demand
How to Accelerate First Article Inspections and Save 70-90% of Your Time
The software consolidates requirements into a checklist, syncing drawings and inspection sheets and automatically identifies bill of materials and specifications. It flags failing results and missing FAIR AS9102 data in real time, ensuring compliance. Features include renumbering balloon sequences, switching units and importing CMM data to validate results. The software also supports 3D modeling, extracting geometry and notes to create ballooned views and inspection sheets, helping to reduce quality escapes and improve efficiency. Agenda: Speed up and error-proof each FAI for accuracy and customer approval Eliminate the need for manual data entry Use your CMM output to populate FAI actuals Address your customer’s requirement for MBD

On Demand
Cutting Through the Confusion of Workholding Automation
No matter what your workholding application, automation always makes sense. Kurt Workholding helps you pick the right tool for the automation job — whether it be a single-vise setup or multiple vises holding large work pieces. This webinar will cover automation solutions using pneumatic, hydraulic and electronic actuation. Agenda: Most common types of vise automation solutions How to pick the right type of automation for an application Key differences between custom workholding and off-the-shelf automation solutions

On Demand
Hamilton Company’s Journey with Real-Time Production Monitoring
In this webinar, director of manufacturing Phil Linscheid will discuss how Hamilton Company has transformed its manufacturing operations with real-time production data. Learn how Phil and his team have increased throughput five times since 2017, while simultaneously improving production efficiency. Phil will share his journey over the past few years making strategic decisions to grow the machine shop’s impact as well as how his team uses MachineMetrics to improve production visibility, automate cycle time tracking, increase machine uptime and enable accurate quoting and planning. Agenda: Enabling production visibility in Nevada’s largest machine shop Improving quoting, planning and scheduling with accurate cycle times The importance of integrating shop floor data with operational systems

On Demand
The Future of Manufacturing: Top Trends in Digital Transformation for 2025
The digital landscape is evolving fast — are you ready for what’s ahead? Join SYSPRO Americas and Sam Gupta of ElevatIQ for exclusive insights into the key trends driving digital transformation in 2025. This webinar is perfect for business leaders, IT professionals and decision-makers across industries looking to prepare for the future. Whether you’re modernizing operations or staying ahead of industry disruptions, these trends will help shape your strategy for 2025 and beyond. Agenda: AI and automation Geopolitical shifts and cybersecurity risks Collaboration and data integration Sustainability and energy efficiency

On Demand
How Artificial Intelligence Can Improve Efficiency and Accuracy in Machine Shops
AI technology isn’t just a concept for the future—it’s here now, ready to transform your estimating process with the new AI BOM builder in JobBOSS². In this first-launch webinar, discover how AI can revolutionize bill of materials (BOM) entry in your shop, saving time, reducing errors and boosting efficiency. In this session, ECI will review how to use AI to build BOMs through a powerful feature that automates the extraction and input of BOM data from PDFs, Excel spreadsheets and images, all within JobBOSS². You'll have the opportunity to watch a live demonstration of the AI BOM builder in action — showcasing its ability to reduce BOM entry time from hours to mere minutes — thereby allowing you to focus on more strategic tasks. Additionally, you will learn about the real-world benefits of AI-driven BOM entry, including the minimization of manual errors, enhanced accuracy, and streamlined estimating processes — all of which can provide your shop with an immediate competitive edge. Finally, there will be a Q&A session with experts, giving you the chance to ask questions and find out how to integrate AI effectively. Agenda: Experience AI in action in a real-world manufacturing setting Discover how the AI BOM builder can immediately impact your shop’s efficiency and productivity Get hands-on insights on implementing AI to streamline your operations

12 Feb 2025 New & Upcoming
Unlock the Future of Machining Large Components Register Now
Events See All

5 Mar 2025
National Surface Finishing Day
Each year Products Finishing partners with thousands of finishing operations in the U.S. to celebrate National Surface Finishing Day (NSFD) on the first Wednesday in March. NSFD is designed to celebrate and showcase the industry to trade schools, businesses, officials and media, as well as to celebrate employees and staff. The overarching goal of NSFD is to bring further awareness to the important roles plating and coating facilities play in their communities. Facilities are encouraged to host events and work with local media to build awareness about the contributions made by the surface finishing industry. For a helpful guide to reaching out to media outlets, download the NSFD toolkit here. How can you celebrate? Share your company’s story Hold an open house where the public can check out your facility –— either in person or virtual Offer student shop tours to local trade schools Invite local elected officials to visit and get to know your staff Celebrate your employees Share news about what you’re doing on social media and use the hashtag #NationalSurfaceFinishingDay or #NSFD

11 Mar 2025
Industrial Finishing Safety Seminar
CCAI is offering a comprehensive Industrial Finishing Safety Seminar developed by industry experts well-versed in safety for finishing operations. This day-and-a-half seminar focuses on NFPA 33, the Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials and will deliver important and critical information on how to safely operate an industrial finishing line. Topics Covered: An introduction to safety Overview and definitions General requirements and electrostatic spray equipment Ventilation Storage handling and distribution Fire protection Operations, maintenance and training Drying and curing Liquid and powder coatings Authority Having Jurisdiction panel discussion Who Should Attend? Manufacturing, staff and environmental engineers (industrial health & safety) Lead painters Maintenance leads and personnel Finishing equipment designers System controls and project engineers Facility managers Finishing industry distributors Date: Tuesday, March 11 and Wednesday, March 12 Time: Tuesday - 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM and Wednesday 8:00 AM - Noon Location: Sames 45001 5 Mile Road Plymouth, MI 48170 Registration Fee: CCAI Members: $599 / Non-Members: $750 Registration Fee Includes: Classroom instruction; lunch on day one; a certificate of completion; and a printed copy of the NFPA 33 Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials. Registration: CLICK HERE to register. Space is limited.

18 Mar 2025
PTXPO 2025
PTXPO 2025 is a comprehensive showcase of cutting-edge technologies and innovations within the plastics molding industry. Join fellow molders, moldmakers, brand owners, OEMs and their full suite of suppliers in Rosemont, IL for three days of non-stop networking, education and business development opportunities.

1 Apr 2025
Precision Machining Technology Show (PMTS 2025)
Founded in 2001, PMTS reconvenes in April 2025 to celebrate its 13th biennial event for precision machining pros. Mark your calendar now and plan to join the precision machined parts community when we once again gather in person to share challenges and insights, see new technology solutions and learn about process innovations you can take back and immediately put into use in your own shop. The Precision Machining Technology Show is centered at the intersection of the industry's newest and most advanced product technologies, process innovations, business development prospects and personal career growth opportunities.

1 Apr 2025
PMPA National Technical Conference 2025
PMPA national meetings are a great way to meet face-to-face and develop strategic relationships. PMPA members have access to dynamic speakers, informative sessions and networking opportunities. Our events are tailored so that everyone has a change to learn: owners, management, shop floor personnel, engineers, human resources, etc.

2 Apr 2025
Parts Cleaning Workshop
Critical Cleaning Hands-on Workshop Do it; learn it! The one-day workshop teaches how cleaning and cleanliness testing work. By participating in hands-on exercises of techniques for cleaning and cleanliness verification, attendees gain the understanding and knowledge to make practical, effective, and sustainable manufacturing decisions. While exercises are supplemented by demonstrations and tutorials, the workshop is not death by PowerPoint! Topics include aqueous, solvent, and “non-chemical” cleaning, including cleaning chemicals and cleaning processes (spray, ultrasonics, cyclic nucleation, in-line, batch). Most manufactured product and product contact surfaces require cleaning during (and sometimes after) manufacture and assembly. Examples of areas where effective cleaning is essential include: metal fabrication, product assembly, optics, electronics, microelectronics, wafer fab, medical devices, aerospace/aeronautics, military, and additive manufacturing. WHAT DO YOU CALL CLEANING? There are many different terms for cleaning. Cleaning Precision Cleaning Critical Cleaning Safety/Critical Cleaning Surface Prep for Finishing Technical Cleanliness Residue Removal WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM THE WORKSHOP If you or your company fabricates, finishes, maintains or repairs product or product contact surfaces (like reaction vessels), this workshop is time well-spent. If you sell chemicals or cleaning equipment, this workshop will help you better understand and optimize the market for your products. Examples include: Manufacturing Engineers Product Designers Managers Sales and Marketing Managers Facilities Personnel Assemblers, operators Process Technicians Quality Control Personnel Regulatory Affairs Experts (industry, military, and government) Safety/environmental professionals Participants will receive a PDF Certificate of Completion with continuing education credits from Sam Houston State University.

19 Feb 2025 New & Upcoming
Manufacturing Technology Meeting 2025 Register Now
Ask the Expert See All

17 Jan 2025 Five-Axis
When to Use 3+2 Versus Full Five-Axis for Finishing Operations
Consider the entire system — along with your goals — when deciding between a full five-axis or a 3+2 approach.

19 Dec 2024 Additive Manufacturing
How Additive Can Complement Subtractive Manufacturing
Think of additive and subtractive as complementary processes, rather than being in opposition.

21 Nov 2024 Workholding
Prioritizing Workholding Density Versus Simplicity
Determining whether to use high-density fixtures or to simplify workholding requires a deeper look into the details of your parts and processes.

6 Nov 2024
Should You Add Linear Scales to Your Machine?
Knowing how scales will influence machine accuracy will help you decide if they’re worth the extra investment.

31 Oct 2024 Metalworking Fluids
Considerations for Machining Coolant Care
Coolant care can be simply managed if you know where to pay attention and which hazards to look out for.

16 Sep 2024 Tooling
Tips for Fine-Tuning RPM
Thoughtful considerations will set you on a shortened path to the most optimized solution once cutter meets metal.
|
Suppliers
Magazine
Top Shops
TECHSPEX
SUBSCRIBE

Automation 23 Jan 2025

Why We Ask Machine Shop Leaders to Speak TASC – The Automated Shop Conference
Milling Tools 22 Jan 2025

Picking the Right End Mill
Succession Planning 20 Jan 2025

How I Made It: Sherry Davies, CEO & President of T.J. Davies Co.
Five-Axis 17 Jan 2025

When to Use 3+2 Versus Full Five-Axis for Finishing Operations
Inspection and Measurement 16 Jan 2025

Automating Double-Flank Gear Testing
Additive Manufacturing 15 Jan 2025

OEMs Showcase Hybrid Manufacturing Applications
Workforce Development 14 Jan 2025

How Proper Scheduling Leads to a Successful Machine Shop
Economics 13 Jan 2025

Metalworking Index Shows Continued Recovery
Cutting Tools 10 Jan 2025

Inside the Process of Cutting Tool Recycling
View From My Shop 9 Jan 2025

Shop Tour Video: From Garage Shop to Leading Aerospace Supplier

Machines

3 May 2006

Thinking Big

This shop specifies large machine tools for the machining possibilities of the future. To prepare for the feed rates the shop expects to use one day, the latest large gantry mills apply linear motors on all three linear axes.

20 Apr 2006