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2024-07-18 02:18:44

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.

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.

Custom workholding enabled Resolve Surgical Technologies to place all sizes of one trauma part onto a single machine — and cut days from the setup times.

Stainless steel may look fabulous out of the box, but a stellar surface finish can take it from great to extraordinary. Think of it as putting on a tailored suit; the right finish enhances appearance and improves performance. Let’s explore your options.

While not the lead actor in electronics, stainless steel plays a crucial supporting role. It’s corrosion resistance and electrical conductivity make it ideal for connectors, springs, and other components. It’s like the indispensable character actor of the electronics world.

In the military, failure is not an option. Stainless steel’s strength, toughness, and resistance to corrosion make it an excellent choice for anything from vehicle components to firearms. It’s the special ops agent of materials—dependable and capable.

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.

Finally, let’s talk about the ‘after-party.’ Whether it’s passivation to enhance corrosion resistance or polishing for that extra bling, post-processing can make or break your project. Plan this step as meticulously as the machining itself.

Running at specified speeds and feed rates, carbide insert drills generally outperform other types of drills when metal removal rates are compared. The high metal removal rate can present a problem, however. High speeds and heavy feed rates consume large amounts of machine tool horsepower. If the horsepower is not available at the spindle to drive the drill, not only is the efficiency of the metal removal rate lost, but because the carbide insert drills cannot evacuate chips from the hole as efficiently at the slower speeds and feed rates, tool breakage also can result. Spade drills effectively solve this problem.

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

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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.

Who doesn’t like shiny things? Stainless steel doesn’t just resist corrosion; it looks darn good while doing it. Its natural luster and ability to take on various finishes make it the perfect choice for consumer goods and architectural details. Because looking good isn’t vanity, it’s a business strategy.

Adding pallet systems brought Mach Machine success and additional productivity. The shop has since furthered its automation goals while adding new capabilities.

The ideal surface finish depends on the intended application and the type of stainless steel you work with. For example:

Spade drills are two-fluted, end-cutting tools that incorporate a replaceable or indexable type of cutting insert. Internal passages in the toolholder channel coolant to the cutting edge of the insert. The external flutes on the holder provide efficient chip removal.

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?

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

Now, why should you even bother machining stainless steel? It’s like dating someone who’s high-maintenance, right? Wrong. With all its quirks and demands, stainless steel brings a lot to the table. Let’s explore the distinct advantages of machining this prima donna.

If CNC milling is a reliable friend, CNC turning is stylish. It offers quicker material removal, but the catch is that stainless steel tends to “grab” the cutting tool, thanks to its flexibility. The key to successful turning is to keep your devices sharp and your wits more robust. Use inserts with positive rake angles and lower cutting speeds to minimize work hardening.

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

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.

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?

Coordinate systems tell a CNC machine where to position the cutting tool during the program’s execution for any purpose that requires the cutting tool to move.

In the medical world, stainless steel is the knight in shining armor. Its corrosion resistance and ability to be sterilized make it a go-to for surgical instruments, implants, and other medical devices. Trust me, if Stainless Steel went to med school, it’d graduate top of the class.

You might want to push your machines to get things done quickly, but slow and steady wins the race here. Higher speeds can lead to rapid work-hardening, making it even harder to machine later. Keep your RPMs in check.

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.

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

The secret to moving chips up and out of a hole is heat. Properly used spade drills effectively put the heat generated during the drilling process into the chip. Heat generated at the cutting edge of the drill exceeds the maximum range of the material that is being drilled. High temperature, with the coolant acting as a quenchant, hardens chips so that they crack and fracture easily. This embrittlement process breaks the chips into smaller pieces, making them more manageable and more easily removed from the hole.

Speeds and feedsfor drilling 304stainless steel

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.

Sanding & Polishing: Good old-fashioned elbow grease can yield a decent finish. This method is ideal for small parts or surfaces that require a bright, mirror-like finish.

And that wraps it up! Whether you’re a novice looking to break into stainless steel machining or a seasoned veteran, this guide has been both educational and entertaining. Thanks for sticking with me, and as always, happy machining!

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

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.

Efficient removal of smaller chips also means that the spade drill holder can be more rigid, because a massive chip gully isn't needed. Tool rigidity is a critical issue for improved drilling performance. Spade drills offer rigidity similar to other cutting tools, but more than traditional drills. Consequently, they can handle higher speeds and feed rates, and, they also can easily absorb the ill effects of misapplication.

The measurement of an inch nut or bolt will be listed as the thread size — a number between one and 12 or an inch increment followed by the threads per inch ( ...

ModuleWorks and Toolpath announce a technology partnership that intends to utilize intelligent cloud-based manufacturing solutions for machining estimation and CAM automation.

Stainless Steel speeds and feedscalculator

Pacon Mfg, Inc. has not rested on its laurels as the 2020 Top Shop Honoree for Shopfloor Practices and Performance. In the years since, it has refined its processes to continue excelling in a volatile market.

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.

The coolant-fed design assures that coolant gets to the cutting edge of the drill all the time, regardless of the depth of the hole. With a coolant-fed spade drill, depths of ten diameters are common, and depths of 40 diameters are possible with pilot holes and sufficient coolant pressure and volume to disperse chips adequately.

Determining whether to use high-density fixtures or to simplify workholding requires a deeper look into the details of your parts and processes.

You’ve hit the jackpot if you’re scouting for information on machining stainless steel. In this post, I’ll walk you through the ins and outs of stainless steel machining, from the types of stainless steel to the best machining processes. Buckle up; it’s going to be a riveting ride!

The tool crib is the backbone of any machine shop — without the right tools, nothing moves forward. While most ERP systems overlook the tool crib, ProShop integrates it seamlessly with CNC programming, job planning, scheduling and more. Join this webinar for an exclusive look at how Roush Yates Manufacturing Solutions leverages ProShop to document tool requirements, sync tool demand from CAM software and efficiently manage the tool crib and work instructions. Discover how ProShop transforms the tooling workflow to maximize efficiency and precision.

Soraluce’s wide range of machine heads and the ability to have multiple heads on a single machine (with automatic changing stations) provides flexibility and reduced setups for large-format machining.

Plus, there’s the issue of heat—too much can compromise the material’s properties. In essence, if stainless steel machining were a video game, it’d be set on “hard mode.”

304stainless steelcutting speed

Drilling stainless steel is like asking a cat to take a bath; it’s doable, but you must be cautious. The material’s high-temperature strength and work-hardening characteristics demand a stable setup and appropriate cutting parameters. Opt for carbide or cobalt drills, and remember to peck drill, especially for deeper holes. Keeping a steady feed rate can prevent the material from working hardening, making your life a heck of a lot easier.

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

Let’s face it: stainless steel is the equivalent of a diva on the stage when it comes to machining. It’s charming, corrosion-resistant, and aesthetically a showstopper—yet it’s notoriously hard to work with. So, how do we, as seasoned machinists, make the most out of stainless steel? Stick around, and I’ll spill all the beans.

Adopting PCD tooling has extended FT Precision’s tool life from days to months — and the test drill is still going strong.

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

Stainless SteelSFM chart

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."

You wouldn’t board a flight that’s not reliable, right? That’s why aerospace loves stainless steel. Its high strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance make it an ideal choice for components that have to withstand extreme conditions at 30,000 feet.

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?

In the automotive sector, stainless steel is like a versatile actor who can play any role—the hero, the villain, or the comic sidekick. From exhaust systems to decorative trims and even structural components, it brings strength, durability, and good looks to the automotive stage.

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.

By equipping MassRobotics with its advanced cobots, ABB aims to facilitate the creation of new and impactful solutions that address real-world challenges across various industries.

Blasting: You shoot tiny abrasive materials to create a matte or textured finish. Useful for hiding surface imperfections.

DaGang, 511470, DaGang Street, NanSha District, GuangZhou City, GuangDong Province, China 511470 ; DongYong, 511453, DongYong Street, NanSha District, GuangZhou ...

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.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill material; it’s a complex beast that demands respect and expertise. Stainless steel is notorious for work-hardening if you’re not careful, and it’s less forgiving when it comes to vibrations or tool deflection.

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.

In one application, a manufacturer of machine tools replaced carbide insert drills with spade drills to overcome the tool breakage problem in a high speed, low horsepower hole-making operation. The company discovered that the spade drills could run at approximately 80 percent of the speed of the carbide insert drills, 80 to 130 sfm, and still produce holes within the required rough drilling tolerance of ±0.005 inch with surface finishes of 200 to 250 microinches. The reduction in machine tool downtime more than made up for the small reduction in throughput due to the reduced speed.

At Carnegie Mellon University’s Manufacturing Futures Institute, researchers use a robotic test bed where AMRs deliver Lego bricks to robot arms for assembly to study AI, multirobot collaboration, assembly, safety and more.

Ah, the crown jewel of stainless steel! Corrosion resistance is like the personality trait everyone wishes they had but seldom does. While other metals corrode, rust, or tarnish over time, stainless steel stays pristine. This makes it ideal for applications in corrosive environments—be it under the sea or inside a chemical plant.

Alright, folks, let’s not sugarcoat it. While stainless steel has its perks, it also has a dark side—especially when it comes to machining. It’s like that attractive but high-maintenance car you bought; it looks great and runs smoothly, but oh boy, the upkeep! Let’s dig into some of the downsides you should be aware of.

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Facing increasing competition from lower-cost imports, Suburban Tool made a move toward large-scale, in-house machining. By identifying a niche in large, precision angle plates and tombstones, the company has strengthened its ability to control quality and protect its reputation.

Because spade drills, by their design, are efficient at moving chips away from the cutting edge of the tool, most spade drilling operations can be performed using coolant pressures of less than 100 psi. However, they also perform well in high pressure coolant applications. The stronger shank and the insert locking mechanism help prevent the tip from being driven off center by the higher coolant pressure.

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

Milling304stainless steel

It's also not surprising that reducing the cost of hole making is an important consideration in reducing the total cost of manufacturing. In that regard, spade drills offer manufacturers distinct cost and technical advantages over traditional twist, carbide and indexable insert drills.

Good tools are half the job, especially when it comes to stainless steel. Opt for carbide or cobalt tools that can withstand the material’s abrasive nature. Tool geometry is also crucial; a positive rake angle can significantly reduce the work-hardening effects.

For example, one spade-drill user replaced standard 1-inch, high speed twist drills with spade drills in a hole-making operation on a large aluminum casting. The shop was able to drill the holes in one pass, eliminating the peck cycle, at twice the feed rate of the twist drills.

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

A continuous flow of coolant prevents overheating, ensuring the surface finish isn’t compromised. Also, be mindful of the wheel speed; too fast, and you might end up tempering the material.

The result is the production of smaller chips, which can be evacuated more efficiently from the hole. This chip removal action makes modern spade drills well-suited for drilling large diameter holes in one pass.

Your typical stainless steel is a cocktail of iron, chromium, nickel, and other elements like molybdenum, depending on its grade. Chromium is the show’s star, providing the anti-corrosive properties that stainless steel is famous for.

SFM forstainless steelturning

Stainless steel doesn’t like to be cut; it would instead stretch and deform. Using shearing or laser cutting methods can yield better results. For shearing, make sure the blades are closely aligned and sharp.

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.

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.

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.

Last but not least, let’s talk versatility. Stainless steel is like that Swiss Army knife you never knew you needed but can’t live without once you have it. From kitchen sinks to skyscrapers and medical instruments to spacecraft, its diverse alloy formulations make it suitable for a broad range of applications.

Think of grinding as the spa day your stainless steel deserves after a hard week of work. But unlike spa days, grinding stainless steel requires a touch of brutality. Use aluminum oxide or silicon carbide wheels and keep your coolant handy.

Adding pallet systems brought Mach Machine success and additional productivity. The shop has since furthered its automation goals while adding new capabilities.

Benefits and features. Roughing and finishing; Long tool life; Excellent finish surface. Cost-efficient tools for aluminium wheel machining. Find your tooling ...

When dealing with stainless steel, CNC milling is like that reliable friend who shows up precisely when needed. However, let’s remember we’re handling a diva here. Standard tools and feeds won’t cut it, literally. You’ll need carbide tools and a patient approach, allowing for slower feeds and speeds to counteract stainless steel’s high work-hardening rate. Also, keep an eye on the cooling; adequate coolant can be a lifesaver.

Decker Machine Works recently adopted Rego-Fix’s reCool through-coolant system for ER collets, reducing the cycle times on a nickel alloy job by 70%.

OnLogic is partnering with AI development and implementation specialists to help companies use AI-powered solutions, aiming to drive real business value.

Epic Tool specializes in the design and manufacture of solid carbide cutting tools, high performance-end mills, drills, reamers and custom carbide tools for ...

Spade drills offer manufacturers significant cost benefits. The design of spade drills helps solve the three key hole-making problems manufacturers face when trying to improve productivity through reduced cycle time. By overcoming difficulties in coolant delivery, chip removal and rigidity, spade drills can significantly reduce the cost of hole making.

One of the most important concerns in any metalcutting operation is coolant delivery, and it is critical to economical hole making. Today, machining centers are capable of producing spindle speeds of 8,000 to 10,000 rpm for drilling operations, and in some cases up to 15,000 rpm can be used depending upon the material being drilled. Carbide inserts and coatings such as titanium carbonitride (TiCN) make it possible to use spade drills in high speed drilling applications. Higher spindle speeds are the key to reducing hole-making cycle times because they allow a significant increase in feed rates, up to a tenfold increase in some cases, which, in turn, increases throughput and reduces cost-per-hole.

Higher speeds and feed rates, however, generate high temperatures, which can significantly shorten the life of tooling, and higher feed rates create more chips, which must be evacuated from the hole. In order for a hole-making operation to benefit from higher speeds and feed rates, coolant must be delivered effectively to the cutting edge of the drill.

The new space includes a showroom, office spaces and an auditorium that will enhance its work with its technical partners.

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.

Electropolishing: It’s like polishing but with electricity and chemicals. The result? A smooth and highly corrosion-resistant surface.

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

Hole making is the most common of all metalworking operations. Virtually every machined part has bores and bolt holes, as well as other round and cylindrical features that must be cut into the workpiece. It's not surprising that hole making accounts for more machining time, and cost, than other operations.

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

Spade drills can be used in virtually any application where a traditional drill can be used to cut holes generally ranging from 1/2 to 4 inches in diameter. A series of basic, rigid holders is used with several insert sizes to provide this wide range of diameters. The alternative is to stock drills for every diameter, a costly proposition and one which results in a sizable tool inventory.

There is also a benefit to replacing indexable insert drills with spade drills. The primary advantage here is the ability of the standard spade drill to accept a wide range of different diameter inserts instead of the "one tool--one diameter" requirement of indexable insert drills.

The MFG Meeting brings together manufacturing technology industry leaders to address key business challenges and provide actionable solutions. Sessions cover a wide range of topics, including workforce, economics, supply chain, leadership, politics, and more. This unique meeting experience provides unparalleled opportunities to network with executives from companies that make, sell, service, and support MT. These peers and competitors will learn from each other, build long-lasting connections, and share insights that will benefit their business.

This new quick-change tooling system enables shops to get more production from their Swiss turning centers through reduced tool setup time and matches the performance of a solid tool.

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.

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?

Sandvik Coromant’s QS Micro quick-change holding system combines simple tool changes with modularity, ideal for small part machining operations.

The Detroit Auto Show, formerly known as the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), is located squarely at the intersection of technology and mobility. It’s a global event filled with tangible advances ready to hit the pavement today. Here, the software is as revolutionary as anything out there, and the hardware always looks better with a good polish. You won’t find any devices that will fit in your pocket, but you will discover machines that will move you in the most literal sense. You’ll also connect with thought leaders from around the world, both in and outside the automotive industry, whose collective visions for the future of mobility will shape the way we move for years to come.

Pickling: No, we’re not talking about cucumbers here. Pickling involves dipping the steel in acid to remove scale and offer mild corrosion resistance.

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.

As chips build up in a hole, particularly in deep holes, the cut can be driven off center and out of round, roughing up the surface finish, and maybe even breaking the tool. Most conventional drilling operations require a peck cycle to remove chips between drilling cycles.

First and foremost, the pocket pinch. Stainless steel is costly, especially compared to aluminum or mild steel materials. Then, factor in the specialized tooling, reduced cutting speeds, and extra time for setup. It all adds up, making stainless steel machining a pricier endeavor. So, if you’re on a budget, brace yourself.

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

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.

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

The common brazed type of carbide drill can also be successfully replaced by "off the shelf" spade drill holders fitted with standard, replaceable carbide inserts. When the insert edge wears out, it easily can be replaced on the machine, or, with indexable spade drills, the second edge simply is indexed into place. No regrinding is necessary, further reducing cost. Special multidiameter brazed carbide drills can also be replaced economically with spade drill holders fitted with throw-away inserts. With spade drills, because only the insert cuts metal, the toolholder can be made from less expensive steel, providing another economic advantage to using them.

Nov 4, 2021 — Instead of just being a place to take pictures, players can invest in shops so that the merchant NPCs like Leif can permanently stay on the ...

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

Flex Machine Tools’ Open House event will take place Thursday, December 5 at the company’s headquarters in Wapakoneta, Ohio. It will feature a facility tour and live machining demonstrations.

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.

Plating: Depositing a layer of another metal like nickel or chrome can offer aesthetic appeal and additional protection.

Not only can Gelsight’s tactile sensor detect and evaluate defects, but it can also measure part features, surface roughness and even contamination.

SFM forstainless steeldrilling

Finally, the gentleman’s choice—EDM. It’s the technique that says, “I don’t touch the material; I let electricity do the work.” Since stainless steel is electrically conductive, EDM can be a good fit, especially for complex shapes and thin-walled configurations that are tricky for conventional machining methods. But remember, it’s a slower process, and the surface finish might need additional treatment.

Stainless steel is an iron-based alloy enriched with a minimum of 10.5% chromium, an element that grants it its corrosion resistance. Unlike other materials, it has a unique ability to self-heal its oxide layer, which makes it immune to rust and corrosion in various environments.

Determining whether to use high-density fixtures or to simplify workholding requires a deeper look into the details of your parts and processes.

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.

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.

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

Ah, threading! It’s like teaching a toddler to tie shoelaces—tricky but crucial. In stainless steel, the challenge compounds due to its tendency to work hard. Opt for thread-forming rather than thread-cutting methods if possible. Thread-forming displaces the material instead of removing it, reducing the risk of work-hardening. But if you have to cut threads, just be slow and steady, and for heaven’s sake, keep that cutting tool sharp and well-lubricated.

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

The new space includes a showroom, office spaces and an auditorium that will enhance its work with its technical partners.

Mazak’s facility in Florence, Kentucky, currently produces more than 70 machining solutions with a local workforce that exceeds 600 employees.

Let’s assume you’re convinced that stainless steel is the ‘one,’ despite its ups and downs. Great choice! But before you roll up your sleeves, let’s discuss some critical considerations that could mean the difference between a successful machining project and a shop floor disaster.

Cutting speed forstainless Steelwith carbide

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.

Spade drills eliminate this problem because they are coolant fed; the coolant is introduced to the cutting edge of the drill through the body of the tool itself. Typically, there is a shaft down the center of the holder with veins branching from it. Coolant is sprayed through these veins directly to the bottom and sides of the hole where it is needed most and will do the most good.

Recently, there has been considerable attention focused on high pressure coolant-delivery systems. These systems, some of which are designed to maintain pressures as high as 1,200 psi at the drill tip, help reduce drilling cycle times because the high pressure breaks chips and forces them out of the hole without the need for a pecking cycle.

Powder Coating: Durable and can be in any color you imagine. It is ideal for aesthetic applications or where extra corrosion resistance is needed.

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.

As for laser cutting, CO2 and fiber lasers are your go-to. Their precise cuts and higher energy efficiency make them ideal for cutting stainless steel without raising a sweat—or temperature, which is crucial here.

Let’s be clear: adequate cooling isn’t optional; it’s mandatory. Stainless steel retains heat, making effective cooling and lubrication critical to maintaining tool life and surface finish. A continuous supply of coolant can be a game-changer.

Stainless steel is tough on tools; think of it as the schoolyard bully of machining materials. Its hardness and work-hardening capabilities mean your tooling has to be top-notch. Even then, you’ll likely see faster wear and tear, leading to more frequent tool changes. This, of course, increases both downtime and costs. Yeah, it could be more challenging-going.

Even before inspection, Datanomix and Caron Engineering’s TMAC AI can extrapolate part quality from cut information. This information also helps shops push their tool life to its limits.

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

Discover all the products from Exact Tools Oy and see a list of their distributors. Contact the manufacturer directly for a quote.

If you’re looking to take your project to the next level, and you’ve got the patience and skill to tackle the diva that is stainless steel, then my friend, the rewards can be truly remarkable. As we’ve seen, industries from medicine to the military rely on it for its unique combination of strength, durability, and beauty.

Herein lies an important, but subtle difference between traditional and spade drill technology. Beyond the advantages of lower tooling cost, spade drills also offer specific solutions to basic hole-making problems such as coolant delivery, chip removal and tool rigidity that have a direct effect on throughput and repeatability. These are important considerations for manufacturers who are trying to reduce the cost of hole making, because solutions to these problems reduce cycle time, an important, but often overlooked, factor in hole-making operations.

In this episode of the AM Radio podcast, Robots & Autonomy Editor Julia Hider joins Additive Manufacturing’s Executive Editor Stephanie Hendrixson and Editor-in-Chief Peter Zelinski to discuss how robots and 3D printing enable each other.

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

In the world of materials, stainless steel is the Olympic gymnast—strong but incredibly agile. Its high strength-to-weight ratio makes it invaluable in applications where structural integrity is crucial but where you can’t afford to be weighed down, like in the automotive or aerospace sectors.

Verisurf’s Machine Tool Probing (MTP) suite is an in-process automated inspection solution for CNC machine tools, offering inspection and reporting capabilities.

Forget “additive versus subtractive.” Machining and metal additive manufacturing are interconnected, and enhance the possibilities for one another. Here is a look at just some of the ways additive and machining interrelate right now.

Every hole has a depth and a diameter, and the ratio of depth to diameter is particularly important when considering coolant delivery. If coolant is being flooded onto the workpiece, the depth of any drilled hole is limited to one diameter. Even at that depth, sufficient coolant may not reach the cutting edge of the drill because chips may block it. The heat generated by the drill in the workpiece often boils off what coolant eventually does reach the cutting edge.

Stainless steel isn’t just ‘stainless steel’; it’s a family of alloys. Each member brings something different to the table. Whether it’s 304, 316, or 410, make sure you’re picking the right one for your application. Think about factors like corrosion resistance, machinability, and strength requirements.

Sep 6, 2007 — If you use them for cutting aluminum, they can clog up and turn into a spinning aluminum lolipop if you are not careful. One secret here is to ...

Determining whether to use high-density fixtures or to simplify workholding requires a deeper look into the details of your parts and processes.

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.

Diagnosing when a tool is failing is important because it sets an expectation and a benchmark for improvements. Finding out why gives us a clue for how to fix it.

Remember, no outstanding achievement comes without its challenges. Choose the right type, gear up with the best tools, and prepare to be amazed by what you and stainless steel can accomplish together.

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.