Consistency is key for beryllium manufacturing, so the data visibility granted by Harmoni has swiftly become a vital, profitable tool in the shop’s arsenal.

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.

When it comes to utilizing the spindle’s power, there is a lot of headroom at the upper limits, provided it’s in short bursts. Be mindful of your time at these loads so you don’t stall out.

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.

Looking to automate your shop floor? The Automated Shop Conference (TASC) will connect shops with experts who can advise them through this transition.

However, adding more flutes is not without drawbacks, as the larger core takes up space and limits flute valleys that otherwise allow chips to evacuate more easily while machining. As a result, stronger end mills with higher flute counts are better used when cutting harder, more ferrous material that require a faster rate of metal removal.

When revising part designs, investigate the 3D CAD, the 2D drawing and the part’s functional requirements to determine which details should be tightened up.

New U.S.-based event announced in 2021 finally debuts next year: focuses on complete additive manufacturing value chain. More at formnextchicago.com.

As the demand for faster production cycles continues to grow, the ability to produce high-quality parts quickly and efficiently has become increasingly important. High-speed 3D printing has emerged as a key solution to reduce lead times and increase productivity across industries. However, like any advanced technology, it comes with its own set of challenges. In this webinar, Forward AM will explore both the opportunities and hurdles of adopting high-speed printing with a particular focus on overcoming those challenges. It’ll start by discussing the fundamentals of high-speed 3D printing and how it differs from conventional 3D printing methods. It’ll then move on to the key factors that influence successful implementation, including the impact of materials, equipment and design considerations. One of the main hurdles in high-speed 3D printing is ensuring the right balance between speed and part quality. Different materials behave differently under high-speed conditions — and not all equipment is optimized for this process. Forward AM will showcase some validated materials and equipment that are proven to perform well under these conditions. In addition, the presenters will look at real-world examples and applications where high-speed 3D printing has been successfully implemented, highlighting the collaboration between designers, engineers and manufacturers. By the end of this webinar, you'll not only have a clearer understanding of high-speed 3D printing with FFF but also the practical steps and considerations needed to make the most of this cutting-edge technology. Agenda:  Introduction The power of high-speed printing Know the process The practical side

Standards for surface finishes and profiles are not static; they change as technology changes or new processes come along that need to be considered.

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.

Part of Major Tool’s 52,000 square-foot building expansion includes the installation of this new Waldrich Coburg Taurus 30 vertical machining center.

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FANUC’s IMTS 2024 booth includes real-time demonstrations that show the abilities of its equipment, including robots, controllers and machine tools.

Formnext Chicago is an industrial additive manufacturing expo taking place April 8-10, 2025 at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois. Formnext Chicago is the second in a series of Formnext events in the U.S. being produced by Mesago Messe Frankfurt, AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology, and Gardner Business Media (our publisher).

Take a look inside James Engineering, a high-end CNC Deburring OEM that became a job shop when they decided to produce their own parts in-house.

When it comes to utilizing the spindle’s power, there is a lot of headroom at the upper limits, provided it’s in short bursts. Be mindful of your time at these loads so you don’t stall out.

Differential gaging measures using two devices, which has advantages over standard, comparative measurements using a single sensing head. These include the ability to measure size without regard to position.

AccuRounds has created synergy between culture and technology, driving a commitment to customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.

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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.

Ceratizit USA has promoted Troy Wilt from national sales manager to managing director of Ceratizit USA, cutting tools division.

The choice between buying a new machine or refurbishing the current one will become clear after a thorough assessment of the machine.

Q-Mark has built its metrology business by providing what customers need, when they want it. This goes for its IMTS booth, too, with free drinks alongside custom technology.

Optimal flute count also depends upon the specific machining application in question. End mills with high flute counts work well in finishing applications since smaller amounts of material will be removed and chip evacuation will not be a primary concern. On the other hand, roughing operations will benefit from a lower flute count, where it is necessary to have larger flute valley to evacuate chips with increased frequency.

GWS says the Alumigator ASR-5 end mill is compatible with aluminum alloys and other non-ferrous materials for roughing, finishing, pocketing and profiling operations.

Take a look inside James Engineering, a high-end CNC Deburring OEM that became a job shop when they decided to produce their own parts in-house.

Though most frequently used for diameter measurements, an air plug and platen can be readily configured to measure perpendicularity.

Horn USA’s new booth concept is designed to enable attendees to (literally) get a better feel for its various tooling offerings.

There are usually better solutions to chatter than just reducing the feed rate. Through vibration analysis, the chatter problem can be solved, enabling much higher metal removal rates, better quality and longer tool life.

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.

Tool-holder-spindle-machine combinations each have a unique dynamic response in the same way that each person has a unique fingerprint, which can be revealed using modal testing.

GWS Tool Group’s Alumigator ASR-5 end mill sports a chatter-reducing indexing configuration and geometric features that reduce chip size.

The company says the end mill’s indexing configuration reduces chatter, achieving metal removal rates in excess of 100 cubic inches per minute. Staggered roughing serrations and proprietary gashing geometry ensures small chip size, enabling users of the Alumigator family of high-performance aluminum mills to use more aggressive feed rates and depths of cut.

Modern Machine Shop is the leading publication and media brand in North America devoted to CNC machining. MMS combines unprecedented editorial access to manufacturing facilities with decades of experience to provide long-form content that is both insightful and impactful. About Us

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.

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Thousands of people visit our Supplier Guide every day to source equipment and materials. Get in front of them with a free company profile.

Incremental mode can be more advantageous when programming sculptured surfaces or for certain hole-machining canned cycle applications.

The general correlation between flute count, core size and tool strength is straightforward. More flutes equals a larger core equals greater tool strength. Furthermore, end mills with higher flute counts tend to have a smaller cut depth and so can be used to provide a smoother finish on virtually any material.

Job shops are implementing automation and digitalization into workflows to eliminate set up time and increase repeatability in production.

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.

Join Mahr for an informative webinar to discover the latest advancements in precision measurement, designed to elevate your quality assurance processes and unlock peak productivity. It'll explore cutting-edge technologies — such as modern height gages and contour measuring systems — along with their applications, benefits and technical capabilities. Discover the power of height gages: Learn how intuitive and sophisticated height gages can revolutionize your measurement processes, enabling quick and accurate results in inspection and production areas. Explore the practical functions and ease of use that make height gages an ideal solution for manufacturers seeking high-performance and reliable measuring technology. Examine sample applications and industries where height gages excel, such as qualifying first parts, inspecting incoming parts and measuring series of parts in industries like aerospace, automotive and medical. Unlock efficient contour measurement: An introduction to the latest contour measuring technologies that enable fast, simple and comprehensive contour measurement in the production environment. Discover how these innovative solutions ensure reliable measurements, saving time and increasing efficiency while measuring a wide range of workpieces. Learn how to streamline your contour measuring process with speed and simplicity, achieving fast and precise measurements with incredible versatility. Register now and discover how to unlock peak productivity with new innovations in precision measurement. Agenda: Insights into the latest precision measurement technologies and their applications Understanding of how to improve quality assurance processes and increase productivity Knowledge of how to select the right measurement solutions for your specific needs Tips on how to optimize your measurement processes for maximum efficiency

Dillon Manufacturing’s extra-long hard jaws feature extended reach, making them well suited for machining small diameters.

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.

AccuRounds has created synergy between culture and technology, driving a commitment to customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.

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.

Walter USA has acquired PDQ Workholding, intending to strengthen its offering of workholding products and develop future cutting tool sales.

The MarSurf CD 140 AF is designed to measure many different kinds of workpieces, making it suitable for a wide range of measurement tasks.

End mills with higher counts of 5, 6, and 7 flutes are increasingly being used to cut harder materials, as a higher flute count allows for a tool with more strength and less wear, resulting in a longer tool life. High flute counts can also be beneficial in specialty applications when dealing with certain kinds of ferrous materials.

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.

Each tool setting technique has merit, and it depends on where you are as a shop and the type of work you do, as cost and efficiency all come into play.

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.

Differential gaging measures using two devices, which has advantages over standard, comparative measurements using a single sensing head. These include the ability to measure size without regard to position.

Today, it is also possible to order end mills with 3, 5, 6 or even 7 flutes. 3-flute carbide end mills have gained popularity when cutting aluminum or non-ferrous materials, offering superior productivity and finish as compared to traditional 2-flute end mills without obstructing chip evacuation.

Learn more about the variety of technology and machinery Hwacheon Machinery America, Inc. is featuring at its IMTS 2024 booth.

Most end mill flutes traditionally come in 2 or 4 flute variations. 2-flute end mills have generally been preferred when machining aluminum materials, since the extra space is necessary for the relatively larger chips to evacuate when the tool is operating at a faster feed.

Features that save on training, programming and cycle times have enabled Speedway Motors to rapidly grow and mature its manufacturing arm.

In this webinar, industry-leading experts will demonstrate how additive manufacturing can revolutionize your operations and answer the question: Can you afford not to? From rapid prototyping to robust fixturing and specialized custom tooling, it’ll showcase the diverse applications that can drive your business forward in a time where cost and time saving can be crucial. Discover how to reduce costs, accelerate production cycles and achieve unparalleled design freedom through the strategic integration of 3D printing technology. Phillip’s panel of seasoned professionals will share real-world examples and practical insights to help you understand the potential of additive manufacturing. Learn how to overcome production challenges, improve product quality and gain a competitive advantage. It will explore the cost-benefit analysis of 3D printing — including material and labor savings — as well as the potential for increased revenue. Join this webinar to discover why additive manufacturing is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for success. Agenda:  Prototyping example: quick-change prototype Custom tooling real-world example: press brake, tube bending die CMM fixturing and workholding example: CMM fixture and soft jaw

This presentation focuses on the vital role that linear and angular encoders play in ensuring precision in machine tools. Attendees will learn about the common challenges compromising accuracy, such as thermal expansion, mechanical misalignments and vibration. Whether you're an OEM, integrator, or machine operator, this webinar will offer valuable insights into optimizing CNC performance. Agenda: Challenges to CNC machine accuracy Understanding encoder technology How encoders address accuracy challenges

Did you know that the show was postponed for WWII? Or that McCormick Place was expanded in the ’70s just to accommodate IMTS? A fascinating look at the show’s history from 1927 to today.

Heidenhain and Acu-Rite Solutions are offering several hands-on experiences at their booth this year, as well as internal components that reduce energy use.

FABTECH 2024 will be held October 15-17, 2024, in Orlando, Florida, at the Orange County Convention Center. FABTECH provides a convenient ‘one-stop shop’ venue where you can meet with world-class suppliers, discover innovative solutions, and find the tools to improve productivity and increase profits. There is no better opportunity to network, share knowledge and explore the latest technology, all here in one place. Future U.S. Show Dates and Locations 2025 – September 8-11 at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL 2026 – October 21-23 at Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV 2027 – September 13-16 at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL

To recap, more flutes on end mills means more strength and a smoother finish. However, lighter metals may require a lower flute count to be sure that any chips have space to clear during operation.

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.

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?

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.

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.

Rob Guiao, Chris Hall and Bassanio Peters will demonstrate relatable situations to equip you with data to improve predictability, future-proof operations and maximize ROI. Agenda:  Explore the importance of data in decision-making, especially for facility upgrades or new projects Learn how comprehensive solutions for manufacturing and construction projects can improve predictability and ROI See real demonstrations of machine integrations, facility layouts and automations to ensure proper throughput and integration

Weldon Solutions is demonstrating three grinders at IMTS 2024. Though they differ in size and use case, all feature the company’s hallmark customizations.

Pairing a shoulder mill with a five-axis machine has cut costs and cycle times for one of TTI Machine’s parts, enabling it to support a niche racing community.

Ceratizit USA has promoted Troy Wilt from national sales manager to managing director of Ceratizit USA, cutting tools division.

Weldon Solutions is demonstrating three grinders at IMTS 2024. Though they differ in size and use case, all feature the company’s hallmark customizations.

GWS Tool Group has launched its Alumigator ASR-5 end mill, a five-flute high-performance carbide end mill for high-speed roughing in aluminum. This end mill is available in both coolant-through and solid configurations.

Manufacturers continue to feel the pressure to reduce costs, increase efficiencies and meet their sustainability strategies. As the industry evolves to keep pace with these priorities, there are opportunities within metalworking processes to use less resources with advanced lubricants and technical expertise. Agenda:  An overview of metalworking lubrication Evolutions in metalworking lubrication Experience on the shop floor Key takeaways

CoroMill MS 20 is designed for repeated shoulder milling, face milling, linear and helical ramping, full slotting and plunging applications.

To cut out laborious manual processes like hand-grinding, this briquette manufacturer revamped its machining and cutting tool arsenal for faster production.

Heidenhain and Acu-Rite Solutions are offering several hands-on experiences at their booth this year, as well as internal components that reduce energy use.

Meanwhile, 4-flute end mills have been preferred when machining steel and similarly hard alloys since they have more cutting surfaces to contact the part per rotation. Since such harder metals require a slower feed, using end mills with 4 or more flutes serves to increase the rate of metal removal.

FANUC’s IMTS 2024 booth includes real-time demonstrations that show the abilities of its equipment, including robots, controllers and machine tools.

Understanding all the things that contribute to a machine’s full potential accuracy will inform what to prioritize when fine-tuning the machine.

Grant funding for workforce training or the purchase of new equipment is an undervalued but complex resource for machine shops. We enlisted an expert to help navigate the process.

There is a vast array of small yet important decisions that must be made when working in CNC machining. For example, it is vital to choose the right number of flutes on end mills to enable your tooling to ensure smooth operation and maximize productivity. Your best option will depend on a number of factors, including the hardness of the materials you are looking to cut as well as the parameters of the tooling at your disposal.

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."

Zoller’s open house in Ann Arbor, Michigan, provided attendees with a glimpse of the connectivity and efficiency the company’s products offer to users.

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.

The Mill A Groove tool can be used to cut step grooves, convex and concave radius grooves, chamfered edges, angles and special profiles with a single insert.

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.

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.

The Automated Shop Conference (TASC) will give shops of all sizes and production volumes key insights and practical guidance on how to implement automation.

Tool-holder-spindle-machine combinations each have a unique dynamic response in the same way that each person has a unique fingerprint, which can be revealed using modal testing.

FANUC’s IMTS 2024 booth includes real-time demonstrations that show the abilities of its equipment, including robots, controllers and machine tools.

From quadruped robot dogs, to an in-booth putting green where you can test out a new golf putter, to a 3D-printed car and more, attendees enjoyed cutting-edge technology and innovations all week long. Take a look to see what (or who!) you might have missed this week!

FANUC’s IMTS 2024 booth includes real-time demonstrations that show the abilities of its equipment, including robots, controllers and machine tools.

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.

If you have any questions or would like advice regarding the appropriate number of flutes for your end mills, please feel free to get in touch with us at Star Tool Inc today. We currently provide carbide end mills of anywhere between 2 to 7 flutes and are prepared to help you find the perfect carbide end mill solution for your metalworking needs.

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."