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Results: 292
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Parts Picking Is Up
Automated offloading, once viewed basically as a production option, is gaining ground in job shop environments.
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From Productivity to Peripherals
Adding robotic welding technology can help manufacturers gain greater productivity, improve quality, and reduce costs in the welding operation, but the process requires
planning.
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Robots Integrated With Mills: Good for Production and Job Shops
Many manufacturers that were a bit squeamish about adding robots to their milling operations are finding a new comfort level with the automation.
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B-axis Brainstorming Pays Dividends
Combining milling and turning in a single machine enables complex parts to be created in a single setup.
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Making Threads Means Making a Choice
Selecting a tool that is right for your application is the key to successful threading.
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Deconstructing the Budget
As the federal budget came down, manufacturers from coast to coast held their breaths, hoping this was the year the government in Ottawa would make a difference.
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Fixturing for the Short Run
Hard tooling for traditional fixtures often depends on costly milling and other non-sheet metal processes. So how can these costs be minimized? The simple answer is to marry the processes and machinery you already have to the appropriate CAD system.
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Lasers Go Large
Large laser cutters can reduce the cost per part, increase parts per sheet, and create larger-scale parts without needing welding.
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Small Manufacturer Builds Large, Custom Equipment
Sparta Innovations designs and manufactures custom equipment for construction and demolition debris recycling, organic processing, and security containers.
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Avoid Galling Problems on Punches
Coatings can extend the life of punches by adding lubricity for less galling and reduced friction between the punch and the material.
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The Pitfalls of Postproduction Liability
General liability insurance for product protects against accidents in shipping.
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Got Gases?
Equipment manufacturers are automating gas selection and use so operators don’t need extensive training and experience to make the right choices, a basic knowledge of gas options and results helps keep the process productive.
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Where Have All the Welders Gone?
Canadian Industrial Machinery(CIM) talked with CWA Director Dan Tadic to discuss the state of the Canadian welding industry.
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Flexible Drilling
Drill heads are attached to
the drill body by either a “turn-and-click”
system or screws. This makes
it possible to change the drill head without removing the body from the machine.
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Familiar With Your EDM Fluid?
The EDM’s dielectric fluid is designed to be a semiconductor with specific voltage and amperage
characteristics.
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Measurement Doesn’t Have to Be Squeaky Clean
Economically viable shop-floor measuring equipment, tools, and software are available for precision part measurement. Small shops can meet the metrology needs involved with the production of precision components without the expense of creating a...
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The Odd Couple: Innovation & Bureaucracy
It’s a mistake to think that innovation comes by simply relaxing company bureaucracy.
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What’s the Best Approach for Sawing Aluminum?
Interest in incorporating more aluminum parts into final product designs is causing fabricating operations to reconsider how they approach sawing aluminum. Traditionally, the conversation centered around circular saw technology when it came to...
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Crushing Global Bedrock
McCloskey International equipment pulverizes, sorts, and stacks aggregate.
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Electric Press Brakes Can Double Bending Productivity, Increase Accuracy, and Save Dollars
Advances in electric brake technology, featuring belt and pulley systems in place of hydraulics, have expanded machine capacities, boosted accuracy by eliminating crowning, and doubled cycle speed.
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Turning to Coatings
The type of material being turned plays a key role in determining whether a coated or uncoated carbide insert is needed.
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Choosing the Right Fluid for Difficult-to-Cut Materials
To maintain dimensional stability and prolong cutting tool life, coolant volume needs to be greater in these operations than that used to machine the more common steels.
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Capturing the Power of Mill/Turn
Several factors determine if a part—or family of parts—is a good candidate for multitasking. They include part volume and complexity, material type, amount of material being removed, and desired cost per part.
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6 Easy Steps to Organizational Success
With skill and wisdom, plant managers can use their personal actions to condition and internalize appropriate behaviors—and attitudes—in their staff.
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Hybrid Laser-arc Welding Takes on Heavy Transportation
Today lean thinking has led many to consider not just manufacturing costs, but also the costs that occur over the entire product life cycle. This is where hybrid laser-arc welding has really stepped up to the plate—literally. The technology can...
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Keeping Pace in Sheet Metal Manufacturing
To remain competitive, a shop must be willing to embrace both innovation and change together. To get the most out of that commitment, a shop needs to understand just how the introduction of any new technology will affect the entire process chain,...
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Robotics Design Builds Nontraditional Robots One Module at a Time
Montreal's Robotics design rethinks how robots are designed, used, and marketed.
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Tooling Changeover Can Be a Pressing Issue
Press brake manufacturers have responded to industry’s need to produce small batches of parts that require frequent tooling changes by designing options and systems to reduce setup time by managing, storing, and automatically changing upper and...
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Handling High-HRC Materials
Technology advances in both machine tools and cutting tools are enabling manufacturers to turn a prehardened part faster and more efficiently.
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Plant IT: An excerpt
Information technology (IT) is slowly penetrating manufacturing operations as older equipment is upgraded or replaced and as new facilities are added.
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It’s All About the Aesthetics
V grooving enables designers to create sharp corners.
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Bend It Like Bernard
New press brake technology allows Metal Bernard to bend 30-ft.-long metal parts up to 1 in. thick.
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Incorporating Tool Management in CAM Programming
Integrating tool management data and CAM programming software can reduce setup times.
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Leaning Toward Safety
Shops of all sizes are finding that lean practices improve safety metrics, and these improvements contribute directly to an improved bottom line.
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Dressing Tips
Diamond dressing tools use the
hardness of the diamond to restore
the grinding wheel’s face.
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Jancox Metal Products offers precision custom machining, checking gauges and product assembly
Jancox Metal Products Inc., Mississauga, Ont., is a family-owned custom job shop that produces quality gauges and precision parts from one-offs to high volume production runs using CNC equipment as well as traditional milling machines.
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Practical Tips for Avoiding Contract Disputes: Part II
It is critical when negotiating
contractual terms to consider
the consequences of your insurance policy's clauses.
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Packing a Wallop With the Punch
Eliminating secondary processes in a fabricating operation is a way to reduce labor costs, which is good news for both the metal fabricator and, potentially, the customer.
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Balancing the Variables for Optimal Dust Collection
Designing and integrating an effective dust collection system
for thermal cutting is not a one-size-fits-all exercise. Balancing all the factors will help a shop ensure it gets the most out of it.
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Welding Thick Aluminum is Challenging
Two industry experts share tips on how to get the upper hand when welding thick aluminum.
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Drilling Stainless Steel
When the heat stays in the drill, the tool itself will begin to break down. In high-speed steel (HSS) drills, this heat will cause the tool to lose its hardness. In solid-carbide drills, microcracks can form on the cutting edges, which will...
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Tips for Tapping Titanium
The unique physical and chemical properties of titanium make it difficult to tap.
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Incorporating Next-generation IT Technology
Manufacturers need to utilize next-generation ERP software to maximize productivity and profits.
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Practical Tips for Avoiding Contract Disputes: Part I
Understanding all contract terms will avoid costly mistakes.
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Shore up and Reshore Manufacturing Now
The Take Back Manufacturing (TBM) initiative focuses on re-energizing the current state of manufacturing in Canada.
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10 Essential Tips for Choosing a Band Saw Blade
It’s not difficult to choose the right blade for your application; all you need to do is carefully consider and
understand tooth shape, blade width,and teeth per inch.
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Illuminating the Black Art of Plate Rolling
Double-pinch, four-roll time savings begins with the reduction of material handling.
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FABTECH Expands Education Program for Las Vegas Show
Fabricators looking for winning technologies.
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10 Tips to Improve Surface Finish
A combination of proper tools and technique
can keep jobs on time and on spec.
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Graphite EDM Electrodes Work
Applications involving
materials that are difficult to machine
or locations that a cutting tool
can’t reach call for EDM cutting with graphite electrodes.
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Decoding Difficult-to-Cut Materials
Materials used in the aerospace industry need a tailored approach to tooling selection.
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10 Tips on How to Measure Training ROI
Following a few rules can prove the ROI that training provides.
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Is a Laser/ Punch Machine Right For You?
The metal fabricator that processes plenty of hole-intensive parts with several contours and forms may want to consider a laser/punch combination machine.
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A Primer on Waterjet Accessories
For fabricators and metalworkers considering their first purchase of a waterjet, return on investment will be heavily influenced by features, options, and accessories that provide a match to their unique needs.
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Preaching the Gospel of Manufacturing
Manufacturers must develop strategies and programs to close the current skills gap and fill the pipeline with a qualified workforce drawn from today’s younger generation.
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Improved Turning of Medical Components
Working with difficult-to-cut materials and short runs leaves little room for error.
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The Pros and Cons of Filters
Manufacturers are under pressure to drive down costs and improve output, and getting the right filtration system for the process can make a significant impact on operating efficiency.
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Machining a Healthy 100 Percent
Since opening in 2007 the company has grown from two to eight people, expanded to include five Swiss lathes, and increased sales by about 2,000 percent.
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Understanding Goods in Transit Insurance
Understanding the terms and conditions of the insurance coverage ensures that the worst does not come to pass in a worst-case scenario.
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Choosing the Right Shielding for the Best Plasma Cut
The methods used to shield the plasma arc from the atmosphere have evolved. The concept of using tap water to generate the secondary gas has been around for more than three decades, but high-precision plasma cutting using the nitrogen-water...
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Troubleshooting Robotic Welding
When a problem occurs with a robotic welding system, it is critical to identify the problem as quickly and accurately as possible.
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West Manufacturing builds assemblies and products to protect the environment
Abstract: Industries served by West Manufacturing include oil and gas, steel buildings, forestry, waste containment, pulp and paper, and transportation.
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Tips for Punching Thin Material
The ability to punch, form, and deburr in one process can eliminate the additional time and costs of secondary
operations.
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Modern Measurement
Proving out of parts, scrap reduction, and traceability are all reasons to more closely integrate measurement and production activities.
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Metalworking: Automotive Update
More than just bragging rights are on the line for the province's assemblers, and recent good news should help momentum keep building.
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Employee Engagement
Research shows that regardless of the economic circumstances, having an engaged workforce contributes to better
business performance.
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Automated Deburring Basics
Integrating the right automated deburring system requires a comprehensive look at application requirements, including part sizes and profiles, material grades, thicknesses, and required finishes.
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Robotic Handling
Two- and three-finger grippers aid robotic manipulation.
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There’s an App for That
Today's CNCs are more powerful than the equipment that sent up the first rockets into space, but they certainly are not the only computers being used on the shop floor. Smartphone apps—which commonly are used to keep people up-to-date on...
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Let’s get small
Micro EDM OEMs agree that vibration damping, elimination of deposits on parts, and thermal stability are needed to control micro part quality.
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Rolling, rolling, and rolling complex profiles
Ontario-based roll former produces highly complex profiles.
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Bring the Problems to the Experts
With the development of new mobile technologies, the opportunity for video collaboration has expanded.
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5 Tips for a Less Stressful ERP Migration
A migration from an older software package to a new enterprise resource planning software system is almost assured to test even the most forward-thinking manufacturing organization. Every part of the organization is touched in this move, and...
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Creating Capital in Time of Need
Key-person insurance —often referred to as “key-man” insurance — involves the use of life insurance to create immediate working capital for a business to meet urgent cash needs and find a replacement in the event of the death of a...
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Brenco serves manufacturers, OEMs, artists with a sense of humor and fabricated parts
B.C. fabrication shop produces everything from sheet metal cabinets to pieces of art.
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A Crash Course in CNC
Whether the design will be produced
using a waterjet or a turret press, designers and programmers know as much about the manufacturing process as possible.
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Why Beam Delivery Matters
The most powerful laser in the world can't work without an
effective, finely tuned beam delivery system. Its design hinges on the application, but a few basic elements lay the groundwork. Together they provide myriad options to find the most...
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Understanding Tool Management
Companies that are serious about tool control should perform a tool audit.
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A second chance for robotics
Advances in technology are providing reasons for companies that had a disappointing initial experience with robotics to try again. Creating a team with members from the automation OEM, an experienced integrator, and the manufacturer’s own shop...
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Software Update: Medical Part Manufacturing
Reducing programming time depends on the amount of automation in the software.
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The shear ease of cutoff parts
Variables in ironworker shearing process determine part quality.
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5 Tips for Improving GTAW Efficiency
Achieving the best weld results takes training, practice, and know-how.
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Press Brake Tooling Strategies
Staged bending combined with offline programming offers strategies for reducing downtime, improving part flow, and controlling costs.
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Multitasking Large Parts
Part complexity, cycle time, material type, and part volume all need to be considered before moving to multitasking.
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Leadership With a Mission
Looking to the mission statement can help define leadership goals.
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Pushing the Envelope
Sault Ste. Marie manufacturer serves its customers in its shop and in the field.
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Need a part, make a part
Making parts in remote areas takes abstract thinking.
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Better Tube Bending
Proper planning and tools lead to greater punching efficiencies.
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Going Large
Proper milling techniques are important no matter the size of the tool.
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Leaning on the Turret Punch Press
Proper planning and tools lead to greater punching efficiencies.
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DRO Programming
Programming on a DRO creates time savings in batch runs.
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Finding the True Cause of Poor-quality Stamped Parts
To make an informed, data-based decision about a stamped part, you have to consider all the factors that make up the stamping system.
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A PM dichotomy: Turning equipment needs more, gets less
Taking time to accomplish PM procedures contributes to profitability.
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Waterjet Bevel Cutting Made Easy
New technology for cutting beveled edges enable the creation of complex shapes and weld-ready parts.
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Ballbar Testing 101
Ballbar calibration can unveil a number
of machine tool problems.
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Turning Tools
By examining just a few key insert features, shops can tailor tooling to meet their needs.
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Press Brake Tending
Overcoming robotic bending challenges.
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Less Lubricant Results in Better Sawing?
Understanding near-dry sawing.
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Spatial Profiling
Robotic profiling and measurement system aid blade production.
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Deep-cavity Milling
Milling deep cavities efficiently requires proper tooling and setup.
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Making the Abrasive Cutoff Saw Work for You
Choosing the correct wheel and coolant only the first steps in cutoff process.
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5 Commonly Overlooked Laser Maintenance Areas
Proper maintenance means peak performance.
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Welding Robot Programmability
Robot programming evolves, becomes simpler.
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The New Face of Robotic Welding
Robotic welding systems are more affordable and easier to program than ever before and are thus increasingly attractive to small and midsized shops
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Coolant Usage in Holemaking
Proper cooling techniques are important in all holemaking operations.
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The 4/50 Rule
Removing non-value-added tasks to boost efficiency.
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Maintaining Wire EDMs
How dirt, resin, and worn parts compromise cut quality and speed.
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Amphibious Ski Plane
Newly designed aircraft a hit for recreational flyers.
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Cutting Through the Thin—and Now Thick—of It
Ontario fabricator keeps more production in house.
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Gas equipment for CO2 laser cutting: A primer
Proper gas delivery is key for laser cutting.
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Advanced Abrasives
Proper dressing is essential in any grinding operation.
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Plate milling 101
Understanding the importance of tool selection, milling strategy, and setup.
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The Role of Government
Governments encourage sector growth through innovation.
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One laser head, one plasma torch, one cutting table
Integrating two thermal cutting processes onto one cutting table.
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Reducing Plasma Table Time
: Cutting more metals and increasing production with plasma.
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High-feed Milling
Insert size and shape play an important role in high-feed milling.
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Industry Update: The Solar Experience |
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Understanding Grinding Fluid
Ensuring proper grinding fluid usage.
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Versatile Gauging
Shop floor measurement with reprogrammable comparator.
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Seeing the (Green) Light
Increasing green-light-on time with automation
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Treated Punching Tools
Specialty coatings can improve performance, decrease downtime
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Sharpen Your Punch Tooling Maintenance Program
Obtaining longer-lasting punch tooling through proper maintenance techniques
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Creating Concept Parts
Rapid prototyping accelerates the part-creation process
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Understanding Two-spindle Turning Technology
Understanding the differences in two-spindle lathes
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Q&A: Weld Sensing
The Role of Weld Sensing
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Reducing Back Injuries
While it's easy to take precautionary measures to prevent back injuries, it's much harder to treat and resolve back problems. Concentra, a health and wellness company with more than 300 urgent care and occupational medicine centers, identifies...
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Turning Nickelbased Alloys
Reducing BUE and Notching in Superalloys
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Increasing Machine Tool Productivity With CNC Technology
CNC Technology Directly Affects the Bottom Line
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Workholding for Cylindrical Grinding
Eliminating the headaches of grinding workholding.
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Engineering Licensure 101
Understanding P.Eng Certification
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Robotic Waterjet Integration
Multiaxis waterjet cutting opens new market for manufacturers
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Controlling Tool Inventories
Eliminating errors caused by incorrect tool selection
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Auto Sector Update
Assembly jobs don't necessarily translate into parts jobs
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Shrinking Volumes Focus Cost-Cutting on Press Brakes
Forming is focused on precision and setup time reduction
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10 Questions for Industry Minister Christian Paradis
Industry Minister talks auto sector, aerospace, and R&D
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Economical, Efficient Cutting
Shearing Q&A
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Press Brake Backgauging
Backgauging makes the press brake more flexible and reduces setup time.
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Band Sawing With Interrupted Cuts
If not cared for, band saw blades can fail, especially in difficult cutting situations.
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The Importance of Proper Programming Techniques
Choosing the correct CAM package means examining the machine tool and part being produced.
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Machining Technology
Milling — Adjustable Gantry
MAG has added a new dimension to its universal gantry mills with an adjustable-rail W axis.
The new U6 gantry mill series can be configured with a cross rail (Y axis) up to 29.5 ft., while the...
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Tracking Injuries
Recording and analyzing injury data can help identify problem areas.
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Choosing GMAW Gun Consumables Wisely
Choosing liners, contact tips, and nozzles.
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Making Perfect Holes
The importance of controlling runout.
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Moldmaking Q&A
Programming complete toolpaths quickly is a must for moldmakers.
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EDM Hole Drilling
Holemaking using erosion.
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Sawing: Selecting a Material Handling System
Choosing a material handling system for your saw.
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Restaurant Makeover
B.C. fabricator uses waterjet for architectural and structural components.
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Through Thick and Thin
Combating stream lag and taper in waterjet cutting.
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Maintaining Your Cold Saw
Proper cold saw maintenance techniques.
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Hard Turning
Tooling options for hard-part machining.
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Manually Measuring Geometries
DROs for measuring 2-D and 3-D parts.
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Multitasking, Business-style
Ensuring accounts payable success.
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Manufacturing Defense
Introducing "digital thread" manufacturing to aerospace production.
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25 Years of Technology
Top 10 technologies of the past 25 years.
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The Decision to Automate
Choosing the correct type of automation is critical.
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Give It Some Gas
Cutting with oxygen, nitrogen, and shop air.
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Decreasing Drilling Time
Increasing the tool penetration rate can have a dramatic impact on drilling time.
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The Expanded Reach of Automation
Automation can help companies be more productive while remaining flexible.
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Turnaround
Having large equipment gives the shops a competitive advantage.
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Press Brakes Go Green—and Save Green
Hybrid and electric press brakes are here to stay.
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Robotic Welding Renaissance
Welding automation can be used even in high-mix, low volumes
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Shop Measurement
New measuring technologies for the shop.
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Better Bending
Examining best practices in press brake bending
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Grinding Trends
New control technology enables closed-loop grinding.
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Toolpath Generation
Milling paths can affect tooling costs, power consumption, waste.
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Understanding Wireless Handwheels
With wireless technology there is no risk of getting a handwheels cable tangled in the machine or workpiece.
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Punching Innovations
Sheet metal fabricators need to look for cost savings in every aspect of business including scrap reduction and energy savings.
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Coatings Explained
Coated tooling can help shops save money in day-to-day operations.
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Canadian Aerospace Outlook
Production and profits are expected to rise in Canada's aerospace sector.
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Using High-pressure Coolant
Proper application of high-pressure coolant has a positive effect on chip breaking and heat.
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8 Technologies for Improving Boring Mill Productivity
Boring, milling, drilling, threading, and even prismatic-part creation are all possible if the boring mill is equipped with the proper accessories.
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Hands-off Production: Understanding Rotary Transfer
Canadian Industrial Machinery recently asked Hydromat General Manager Kevin Meehan about the benefits of producing parts in a rotary transfer, turnkey environment.
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Selecting a Band Saw Blade
The three main choices for blade type in metal cutting applications are carbon steel, bimetal, and, more recently, carbide-tipped.
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A Look at Bombardier Aerospace
Using grid tombstones and plates, along with modular components, allow fast, accurate alignment on the precision grid system.
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Robotic Sheet Metal Bending
While every robot installation is different, it is no longer limited to applications in large lot sizes.
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The Future of Shearing
A shear still can cut simple square or rectangular parts faster than a laser or plasma cutter.
CIM: How has shearing technology changed recently?
McLean: If any area has changed in shearing, it is in the area of controls.
Most...
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Solar Power Generation
Solar power expert Joshua Pearce, Queen's University, explains the future of solar in Canada.
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Machining Efficiently
Parallel processing and background processing can reduce programming time, especially for large, complex parts.
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The Era of Automation
The 1990s was the decade of high-speed machining, the 2000s were about multitasking...this decade will be about automation.
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Finish Turning
A part’s configuration, coolant flow, cutting tool material, and cutting tool shape all play a role in surface finish.
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Cermet Tooling Explained
Cermet tooling, as the name implies, is a cross between ceramic and metal tools.
Made of ceramic particles bonded together with a nickel binder, these tools are capable of running at higher speed than carbide tools, and are much...
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Overnight Success
Company can run more than 200 different parts, with cycle times as short as 8 minutes, during an unmanned night shift.
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Drilling Nonflat Surfaces
When drilling nonflat surfaces, proper drilling techniques, chip evacuation, and coolant usage all affect the success or failure of the job.
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Laser Scanning
Noncontact scanning can eliminate the bottlenecks that is are usually associated with the measurement process.
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Reinvigorating your ironworker
Metal fabricators need to meet the challenges that new customers present, but they may not be in the position to invest in new equipment. With a small investment in accessories, however, that ironworker in the corner of the shop may be the answer...
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Moldmaking Today
"Suggestions to be flexible, and to possess the most advanced equipment, do not fall on deaf ears... In many cases, they simply lack the necessary funds to move in this direction."
—Angelo Carnevale
Vice President
Canadian...
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Punching Titanium
Processing titanium is still in the early stages of development, and fabricators are always finding new applications for this product.
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In-process Cutting Tool Control
As the tool and mold industry automates the machining process to optimize machine effectiveness, in-process tool control is becoming more important.
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High-pressure Manufacturing
A four-roll Davi plate rolling machine capable of rolling a 2-in. sheet to diameters up to 60 in. is one of the shop’s workhorses, as is a multiaxis plasma cutter is used to process large-diameter tubes.
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Laser Cutting in 3-D
Laser trimming of parts, as well as the laser cutting of stamped and hydroformed sheet metal parts, are poularizing because of the speed and repeatability of the systems.
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Automotive Work
The unique challenges of machining compacted graphite iron (CGI) include machining at half the normal cutting speed and feed rate.
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Turning Q&A
Eccentric turning occurs when the workpiece and spindle axis do not share the same center axis. This process poses a set of unique challenges, so Canadian Industrial Machinery asked Marc Jagoda, Mazak’s assistant national applications manager,...
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A Look at Milling
New milling tools and techniques can aid a shop's bottom line.
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CAD/CAM Software
New software packages can increase productivity.
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Manufacturing Meets Social Media
An inside look at how one Canadian manufacturer is harnessing the power of social media.
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Combination Work
Reducing the number of secondary operations is one key to successful manufacturing. Another is completing a part with minimal or even no handling, which dramatically reduces the cost to produce the part.
In combination-style...
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Optimizing the Robotic Welding Process
Robotic welding systems have become increasingly popular in industries that require speed and repeatability to maintain a high volume of productivity.
In addition to delivering fast, accurate air movements that help reduce cycle...
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Grinding: A Dynamic Machining Process
Machine uptime and utilization in a grinding process influences final cost-per-part.
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Education Anywhere, Anytime
Online Webinars can ease travel costs while educating staff.
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Dumur Industries
Unique seven-axis plasma cutter lets this custom manufacturer bevel-cut thick plate.
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Community Machining
Ontario job shop expands into new industries.
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Branson Machine & Tool
CIM explains how one Ontario job shop is using on-machine probing technology to reduce setup times and rework.
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Canadian Automotive Content
Automotive industry analyst Dennis DesRosiers talks about the role Canada plays in the North American auto sector.
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Precision Hydrojet
Three-head waterjet reduces setup costs as well as cost-per-part.
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Optima Manufacturing
Calgary-based manufacturer uses novel toolpath software to serve the needs of its oilpatch customers.
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The Advancement of CNC
As five-axis machining becomes more popular, the demand for advanced control functions related to five-axis movement has increased.
New CNCs must not only keep up with advances in machine tool technology, but also the needs of...
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International Report: Finding the sweet spot in laser cutting automation
Walking a block north of the Leie River flanked by the medieval Broel towers—two of the few original structures left standing in Kortrijk after World War II—I noticed the trees. The Belgians pruned them several years ago, leaving...
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Industry Update: The Health of Canadian Medical Manufacturing
Parts are made for the medical industry are generally small and therefore require small tooling, such as Iscar's Minicut (shown here).
As the Canadian population ages, the demand for joint replacements, dental implants, prosthetics, and...
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Tube Design Evolution
An evolution in the design and fabrication of products and assemblies is under way as the use of tube stock in manufacturing becomes more commonplace.
Progressive-thinking companies are incorporating laser tube cutting and...
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Pressing Needs
Touchscreen computer control simplifies file management while at the same time providing detailed setup information for each saved program.
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Band Saw or Circular Cold Saw?
Editor’s Note: This article originally appeared in the November 2009 edition of The FABRICATOR, CIM’s sister publication.
It's a common question. Band saw or circular cold saw: Which best fits my operation? Make the wrong choice in...
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Bending Efficiency Explained
Canadian Industrial Machinery asked John Kemp, bending product manager, Bystronic Inc., to explain how manufacturers can improve the efficiency of their bending operations. Here is what he had to say.
CIM: How can efficiency gains be...
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An Overview of Precision-ground Tooling
An examination of the role precision-ground press brake tooling can play in a fabricator’s bending operation.
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Note to the Government: Manufacturing Matters
Poll: The country’s manufacturers believe they can compete on quality and value, but not on price.
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Multitasking Programming Tips
More time must be spent at the beginning of the process when programming multitasking machines in order to eliminate programming errors and underutilization.
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The Art of Milling
New tooling when combined with proper techniques can dramatically improve milling operations.
Removing material quickly is the key to most milling operations.
And most of the material removed is done so during the roughing process,...
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Waterjet: Cut Quality and Cutting Speed Explained
Canadian Industrial Machinery asked James Daugherty, product manager, Flow International Corp., and Steve Szczesniak, national waterjet product manager, Mitsubishi, to discuss the relationship between cut quality and speed in waterjet cutting...
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Measuring Aerospace Parts
A proper probing strategy is necessary when measuring prismatic parts.
Canada’s aerospace industry has a long history of success in the world marketplace.
Not only does the country have a base in aviation and spacecraft component...
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Holemaking Using High-feed Milling
Dry cutting with an air blast through the spindle allows chips to be easily evacuated when using a high-feed cutter, such as the Tungaloy TXP (shown here)
Many shops today have discovered the benefits of high-feed milling, which uses...
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Changes Coming in New Edition of CSA Z142-10 Press Standard
Laser-actuated active optoelectronic protective devices (AOPDs), which have been used throughout Europe for many years, now have their own section in the updated code.
Later this month the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) will release...
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Drilling Plate
Thousands of holes are drilled each day at Innovative Steam Technologies.
Drilling 2,000 or more holes in inch-thick plate may seem daunting, but at Innovative Steam Technologies (IST), Cambridge, Ont., it’s the daily routine....
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Part Marking
For the medical, aerospace, and automotive industries, the traceability of parts is not just an option but a firm requirement.
For example, the aerospace sector uses a data matrix code to manage the life cycle of spare parts. A...
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Preparing to Weld
The math is simple: The less time you take setting up a job, the more time can be spent welding. This equates to more inches of weld being laid per day, less wasted time and material, and a happier boss.
As welding processes continue to...
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Small-hole EDM
The electrical discharge machine (EDM) process lends itself to small-hole creation for several reasons. By precisely controlling the spark gap, the area between the electrode and the workpiece, and by reducing the amount of energy sent...
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5 Questions With...
Today’s multitasking equipment allows many operations to be carried out at any one time, which can potentially increase productivity, reduce WIP, and reduce the cost of the final part.
However, as the machine’s axis movements and...
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Shrink-fit Toolholding for the Medical Industry
Haimer USA's Power series, which includes shrink chucks and collet chucks, is suitable for medical equipment machining.
Tolerance requirements in the medical industry typically are much more precise than in general machining. This means...
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Going Retro
Coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) measure a part’s critical features and reports on size, position, and form.
And because most CMM structures are not subject to high levels of wear, these systems can remain in service for...
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Tips for Improving Small-hole EDM Precision
Bullet-nosing, a condition describing the tapering that occurs to an electrode, is a common and widespread problem that comes with most EDM drilling operations.
To combat this effect, you should consider several factors when...
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Thinking About Buying a Laser?
Adding laser cutting capability can change the culture of a shop overnight and can be a monumental decision in any shop’s life. As with any major investment, whether it’s for capital equipment or something else, due diligence is...
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Moving Beyond Tribal Knowledge
Tribal knowledge is any unwritten information not commonly known by others within a company. This term is used most when referencing information others might need to know in order to produce quality products or services.
By nature,...
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Digital Readouts
Operator error is, for all practical purposes, eliminated with a digital readout (DRO), according to the experts. Calculations are performed automatically by the system, and the required positions automatically prompted on the screen....
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J/E Bearing and Machine
There is nothing like the atmosphere and buzz at a family-run shop when a new piece of equipment arrives.
The setting this time is J/E Bearing and Machine, Tillsonburg, Ont., a business in the heart of Ontario’s manufacturing...
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Industry Update: Power Generation
Solar power is one of the least understood means of generating electricity, and for good reason. Solar power collection is relatively easy, but storage is difficult. Also, at night the entire system is reduced to a collection of parts,...
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Let There Be Light (Curtains)
Operating a press brake is not like working on other equipment.
Sheet metal operations with a unique danger to the fabricator are the norm in everyday press brake work. Bending, hemming, and even operations such as punching and...
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Getting the Most From Your Punching Process
There is more to the punching process than simply the machine, the material, and the tool.
According to the experts, as products become more complex and lean practices become the norm, an examination of your part from the design...
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Automotive Update
In 2009, more than 30 North American automotive companies declared bankruptcy, and these losses have meant a rise in unemployment.
In the assembly sector, employment levels have fallen to their lowest point since the mid-1960s. More...
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Honing Efficiency for New Business
In the business of honing creating rounder and straighter bores and the best surface finishes possible are the keys to survival.
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HMC or HBM?
This MAG 500-mm HMC, part of an MQL machining system, produces part of a family of valve bodies and transmission cases.
Traditionally, work done on a large horizontal machining center (HMC) could not be confused with work done on a...
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You Can Plasma-Cut It, But Can You Weld It?
Time spent on extensive weld prep easily can eliminate any gains made from faster plasma cutting. Put another way, it doesn’t matter how fast a plasma cuts if the resulting cut face can’t be welded efficiently.
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Before You Buy
Making an intelligent, economically sound punch press purchasing decision requires careful consideration of many factors, including material size and thickness, material handling capabilities, part complexity and volume, and turret capacity. Take...
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Combination Machines
Because the loading, punching, and shearing of parts is automated, there is a reduction in scrap and manual labor.
Since its founding in 1987, Fantech Ltd., Bouctouche, N.B., has manufactured ventilation products to improve air quality for...
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Tooling Organization Means Punching Optimization
Turret punch press uptime will increase if you know your process capability, manufacture products within that capability, and optimize the layout of your tooling. It also will increase if you optimize programming, design, and tooling. It also is...
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Waterjets
A 60-degree multiaxis head allows operators to create highly complex, extremely accurate parts that could never before be made on a waterjet.
Like any technology, manufacturing equipment is constantly evolving.
In the world of...
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Industry Update: Aerospace
(left to right) Jack Dougherty, vice president of Boeing’s H-47 programs, Minister of National Defence Peter MacKay, Minister of Industry Tony Clement, DaveGossen of I.M.P. Group; and Chief of the Air Staff Lieutenant-General Angus Watt...
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Selecting the Proper Metalworking Fluid
Q: Why is coolant used in metal cutting?
A: The basic functions a metalworking fluid performs are cooling the part and tooling to increase tool life; reducing friction; protecting the machine tool and part from corrosion; providing...
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Automating Centerless Grinding
In machining operations, once the viability of NC was proven, the logical next step was combining multiple processes in a single machine.
With more and better capabilities and automatic tool changing, the milling machine became a...
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Welders Wanted
The welding industry in Canada is at a crossroads.
Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta all are showing large shortages in the number of qualified welders. The rest of the country also is following this trend.
As technology and...
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NuTech Engineering
Given the continuing exodus of work to countries with low labor costs, Canadian Manufacturing 101 teaches us that using automation to increase throughput will help keep the final cost of a part low. Also fewer manual handlings can help...
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EDM
Second only to labor costs and machine payback schedules, wire consumption is the most expensive facet of running a wire EDM machine.
Controlling the cost of this consumable item, while dependent on the application, is the best way...
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Grinding with CBN
Cubic boron nitride (CBN) is a man-made crystal that is second only to diamond in its hardness.
The substance also makes an effective grinding abrasive for superalloys. This is because, in addition to its hardness, CBN is an...
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IJM CNC Machining
Ivan Markovic added the machining capacity of a large-bed vertical machining
center to keep his company fl exible in its ability to produce parts.
Ivan Markovic has seen a lot in his 30 years in manufacturing.
Constantly shifting...
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Medal Stamping
As unique as the world’s top athletes and their performances, every medal won at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games will be a one-of-a-kind work of art.
The medals, which were revealed last month, each feature...
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New Punching Technology
New technology in punching is coming in many forms these days as new tooling, robots, and software are created specifically for this application.
Unlike the automotive industry, sheet metal parts are not always the same. Robot...
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For What It’s Worth
Private Equity Groups (PEGs) have not been hard-hit by the credit crunch or the recent stock market decline. They have capital to invest and are looking for business acquisitions or investments.
One of the major market shifts for...
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Milling Q&A
Q: How has milling technology changed recently?
A: The inception and dissemination of advanced CAD/CAM packages are giving engineers and designers tools to help them create incredible components. This results in parts with a level...
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Understanding Sawing
Selecting the proper band saw blade is much like any other manufacturing decision. You start with an understanding of the work that needs to be done, and then simply select the correct tool for the job.
Today however, there are many...
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Swiss Turning Machines
The first market for Swiss-type machines was the watch industry. Over the years, however, many other markets have found a need for work done on this type of equipment.
Today the defense, electronic, appliance, and automotive sectors...
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Shades of Green
Canada’s power generation sector is a complicated mix of manufacturing, politics, and economics, and there are champions and naysayers for each type of energy-creating technology.
Hydroelectric power generation is so ingrained in...
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The Future of CAD
CAD systems have become easier to use over the years as user interfaces have changed to be more consistent with software programs that people are already familiar with. The types of output CAD can produce have changed as well.
This...
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Swiss Turning Evolution
Modern Swiss-style machines have come a long way from their introduction in the early 1900s.
Their design evolved from the requirements of the Swiss watch and related screw machine industries. This industry required screw machines...
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Press Brake Advancements
For many companies the bending process starts with the design of a part in 2-D or 3-D. The part is then cut by a laser, punch, or other means, and finally the part is bent. What can occur, however, is that the final part is not the...
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Milling Titanium
The aerospace marketplace of today is very demanding as manufacturers continue to look for ways to produce more fuel-efficient aircraft.
Strength-to-weight ratios are more important than ever in the race to create the next big...
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In Pursuit of Press Brake Safety
The Command Stamp press control (pictured here on a press brake) is a system for press brake manufacturers to upgrade their equipment to meet safety standards before shipping. And, in cases where end users still receive noncompliant equipment,...
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Pardon the Interruption
Part design, raw material, and the machine tool being used are all variables in the tooling selection process. And, as the machining process becomes more difficult because of the part features or the material being cut, novel tooling may...
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The Fundamentals of Plasma Welding
Plasma arc welding is suitable for robotic applications.
For those who choose a vocation in plasma welding, learning and practicing the fundamentals of the trade never stop. A dangerous profession, welding requires strict adherence to...
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Building a Profile
Perry Tepel and his partner Rick Rempel had been working in the custom fabrication market for many years when opportunity knocked, or more accurately, phoned.
With nearly 30 years’ experience in machine fabrication, Tepel had just...
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Custom Manufacturing
Entire wall structures are built at TRI-V Custom Manufacturing using tabular components.
While it’s often the large, multinational corporations that grab the headlines, smaller, family-run businesses are the backbone of Canadian...
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Interrupted Turning
Turning is a game of fundamentals more so than other machining operations such as milling, drilling, or grooving.
There is really nothing fancy about turning. It is about selecting the optimal insert for the application and applying...
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Today’s Turnkeys
A turnkey system’s variables have traditionally been the machining equipment, tooling, fixturing, and load/unload accessories. Today, application engineering, programming, and process guarantees are of equal importance.
As lean...
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Teach Your Children Well |
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Precision Boring
In many boring applications it is up to the operator to make fine adjustments to the boring bar in order to create the correct bore.
Now with technology advances, in-process gauging and real-time diameter feedback can automatically...
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Canadian Manufacturing Technology Show
As more than 500 manufacturers and distributors prepare to convene at Toronto’s Direct Energy Centre Oct. 19 to 22, the message that manufacturing still matters is the prevailing theme.
The upcoming event will unveil the latest...
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Auto Parts Manufacturing Forecast
Among other major changes occurring in the automotive sector this year, Canadian auto parts-makers will cut the work force by one-third as part of a 34 percent reduction in industry costs, according to The Conference Board’s “Canadian...
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Rethinking the Diesel Engine
The environmental demands on truck manufacturers are becoming steadily tougher, and this autumn European emission standards will become tougher still.
Pressure for the development of environmentally optimized technology is...
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Press Brake Q&A
As fabrication technology evolves, keeping on top of the latest advancements often becomes increasingly difficult. This month Canadian Industrial Machinery asked Nigel King, product manager – metal forming for manufacturing equipment...
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Drilling With High Pressure
Much of the underlying science of drilling is still not understood by metal cutting professionals.
Many people with decades of experience drilling holes are even shocked when they see what a high-pressure, fully optimized drilling...
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Distorting – The Facts
The fact that workholding distorts workpieces is a common challenge facing manufacturers. The forces applied while holding the part invariably alter its shape, and when it’s released from the holding device, it typically springs back to its...
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Western Canada and the Recession
A great deal has been discussed over the past few years about the westward shift of the Canadian economy, a shift that reflects the dynamic growth that has taken place within the four western provinces while the manufacturing economy...
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Automating the Sheet Metal Process
The new BendMaster robotic bending system from TRUMPF allows Amazing Custom Fabricators to make complex, repeatable bends without operator intervention.
With an eye on continual improvement and a desire to reduce non-value-added time,...
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Turning Around Money-losing Jobs
Mecon can create press brake dies to a customer's specifications.
Difficult jobs can be a reminder why it’s good to keep up with the latest cutting tool advances. For Mecon Industries of Scarborough, Ont., new tooling was the...
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Increasing Die Throughput
Corner correction capability rounds tool paths to avoid sharp transitions in corners and other difficult-to-reach part features.
Still strong despite what some are calling the worst automotive downturn in history, Exco Engineering of...
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Valley Blades
In 1962 Valley Blades Ltd. began as a small manufacturing plant in Cambridge, Ont. The small 6,000-sq.-ft. facility originally was used to manufacture carbon snow blades and grader blades for the local market.
Fast-forwarding to the...
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Value-added Manufacturing
ProTechnique EDM parts are used in the creation of devices like this COM DEV spaced-qualified output multiplexer, which is used on a communications satellite. The unit is designed to survive severe vibration during launch and operation in...
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Metal Stamping Pressure Testing
Figure 1 Pressurex® is placed in the progressive die between the material strip and the lower gutting section to determine punch and stripper pressures.
Measuring tactile pressure magnitude and distribution may sound...
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Product Liability Exposures
Companies have a duty to protect consumers from potential hazards, even if the end user is negligent or deliberately misuses the product. In fact, courts hold manufacturers to a higher standard because they have a more intimate knowledge...
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Rolling on at Specialty Steel Fabricator
With its plant facility move in summer 2008 from Markham to Aurora, Ont., Modern Railings and Metalcraft Ltd. purchased a roll conveyor system for the new location.
The Canadian-owned metal fabricator employs approximately 40...
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‘Buy American’ Hurts Manufacturing
Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME), Canada’s largest trade and industry association, recently applauded Canada’s premiers for the support and concerted efforts they are demonstrating in fighting protectionism in the U.S. and...
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Multitasking
Combining processes in a single machine can lead to better-quality parts and a reduction in the cost of producing those parts from start to finish.
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Advancing Automotive Research
These magnesium cast wheels are an example of part production from lighter-weight material in today's cars.
In April the federal government announced the establishment of an automotive research fund designed to keep the Canadian auto...
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CAD/CAM Insight
FeatureCAM 2009 will support slant turning on mill-turn machines.
Delcam has been increasing its business in the aerospace industry for the last 10 years or so. The company originated from research at Cambridge University in the 1960s...
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Getting to Know the EDC
In Canada, one in three jobs relies on exports. Due to the size of Canada's population, the domestic market remains limited for small businesses, so they have to think globally to compete.
Export Development Canada (EDC) is...
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Automotive Metal Stamping
Division of Magna Automates CAD Translations with TPM
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