Aerospace CNC machining must meet incredibly precise requirements, and some have tolerances as tight as 0.00004 inches. Machinists must adhere to such tolerances with extra-durable industry-standard materials such as titanium, aluminum, nickel and some plastics. The exact materials depend on the parts being created and the required properties for that CNC component.

Due to their rapid movement, high-speed trains undergo extra strain, so precision is especially important when manufacturing parts for train cars and engines.

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.

CNC machining is your solution for industry-specific parts made to your project’s exact needs. Worldwide innovation begins with a creative design, which is perfectly suited to the CAD and CNC machining process.

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.

American Micro Industries provides expert CNC machining services for a wide range of industries, producing large and small components with accuracy and precision. From customizable prototypes to bulk orders, we have the skills and experience to meet your exact needs and parameters. Contact us to request a quote and learn more about our services.

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

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

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

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.

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.

These factors go together. Lights-out production might be performed on small vertical machining centers (a factor discussed below). Seen here is a photo of an automated machining cell at Wagner Machine.

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

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.

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.

Plastics represent a wide range of materials, versatile in many industries. The medical field uses plastic for custom packaging to ensure product safety. Many healthcare supplies must also withstand high working temperatures, which certain plastics can accommodate.

Benefits of CNC machines in the medical field include the ability to create customized parts rapidly. Those in this industry, however, also require the manufacturing of these parts in FDA-approved environments. When crafting individual designs, the CNC software allows engineers to see all aspects of the piece in three dimensions before machining it. This process ensures every component has the exact dimensions it needs to operate correctly. Parts that will fit together must have the smallest possible margin of error, as issues can lead to machine malfunctions and medical misdiagnoses.

CNC benefits the marine industry through its ability to make custom parts. Whether for small boats or industrial shipping vessels, boat parts may need custom specifications to fit the user’s needs. With CNC machining’s versatility, engineers can make both large and small pieces, depending on the available machinery. Marine foams have a range of types, including rigid polyurethane and thermoplastic polyurethane, that engineers can use to create water-resistant, lightweight and durable parts for boats.

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.

The medical field relies on customized, quality products to maintain a high level of patient safety and care. Various types of CNC machines adapt well to the medical industry’s needs. Due to the many materials and devices available, some examples of CNC machine uses for the medical industry include:

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.

A programmer uses CAM Software to digitally manipulate the design into a format the CNC machine’s computer can understand. Machinists make sure the CNC machine has the right tools for the job and place the selected material in the machine. Finally, the CNC program tells the machine to create the product based on the design.

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.

Polyester film, another polymer resin, is a flexible and stable insulating material for electrical products and also has medical uses. Some plastics are friction and corrosion-resistant, ideal for products like bushings and bearings that may experience harsh environments. Other plastics are transparent, perfect for products that need to be stronger than glass but still see-through, like bullet-proof glass.

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.

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.

I am coming to think that, in a sense, the answer is yes. The role of machining — what we’re asking machine tools to do, how we are asking them to deliver value — has shifted, and an emphasis toward lighter cuts over aggressive cuts is a defining hallmark of this shift. As a measure of what a machine tool or cutting tool is capable of, metal removal rate is as meaningful as ever. But as the measure of the success of a process that puts the machine, tool, toolpath and other elements together — here is where things have changed. In many cases, MRR is no longer the measure to optimize, because it is no longer the indicator of whether the process’s optimal productivity has been realized.

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

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?

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.

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.

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.

Because CNC machines can create parts from several types of materials, they can make everything from the brakes to the engine parts and even tools. Just as passenger automobiles are evolving to become more efficient, cargo vehicles in the transportation industry face similar changes. CNC machining makes it easier for engineers to hasten research and development processes to manufacture enhanced vehicles and parts faster.

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

High-security measures require secrecy surrounding the exact procedures and products used in creating military equipment. However, this sector can gain benefits from using CNC machining, such as efficient upgrades, long-lasting parts made of tough materials and the mass manufacturing of approved parts that require precise tolerances. The military is among the industries with CNC machinery that may require regular device upgrades. Precise machining and prototype capabilities allow the defense sector to use the latest technology and supply the best homeland protection.

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?

While the air and space industry requires crafts built for speeds faster than sound, the transportation and automotive sectors require longevity. Transportation vehicles need robust components strong enough to haul heavy cargo far distances, and manufacturers rely on CNC-machined parts to produce dependable cars and trucks. The transportation and automotive industries may need CNC machines to construct parts used in various vehicles, such as:

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.

CNC machining is also an ideal method for manufacturing aerospace part prototypes. Viewing the 3D image on a computer allows the engineer to test the part’s functionality and make quick changes if necessary. Once finalized, engineers can begin the CNC machining process for rapid part production. The transition from individual to mass production of parts for the aviation or aerospace industry becomes simple with the use of CNC machines throughout the process

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CNC machine use primarily relies on automated processes, resulting in accuracy and precision. Machinists can use CNC machines to produce many product designs, from standard shapes to objects with tapers and compound contours. The CNC machining industry can handle your largest or smallest jobs, from manufacturing big parts to sculpting precise pieces and completing them with secondary finishing operations. The automated process allows for quality consistency, ensuring all products are the same, even at mass-production levels.

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

Additive manufacturing (AM) is essentially the elimination of roughing. In metal, AM is the near-net-shape process producing perhaps the nearest-to-net-shape parts manufacturing has ever seen. (Only metal injection molding might challenge this.) Additive manufacturing processes in metal also frequently offer a more cost-effective method for producing parts that in the past would have called for hog-out machining instead of forging or casting. In all these ways, the advance of additive deemphasizes heavy cutting.

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

And yet additive manufacturing still needs machining. Moreover, it needs machining to carry much more of the weight of value than any typical milling or drilling pass in a blank or even a casting. A metal AM part is likely to stand for what previously might have been an entire subassembly, and a metal AM part is also apt to have been made in a powder bed fusion process involving a build time of hours, possibly days, before the part heads to machining. Given all this, the potential time savings of fast cutting is tiny when weighed again the cost of potentially scrapping the part. Slow, careful cutting tends to be the hallmark of machining for AM, to the extent that, in this application, MRR hardly matters.

This is indeed a shift, and the change can be counterintuitive to one with decades of experience in production machining. In the view that would be natural to a long-running shop, productivity equals cutting, and removing more material faster equals more productivity.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

The marine industry also owes its success to the various CNC-machined components it uses. Many watercraft elements require unusual materials or shapes, and machining is the perfect method for meeting those needs with minimal effort.

CNC machining also allows for versatile manufacturing, as you can use various materials to make parts with the exact specifications you need. Many projects can benefit from this level of precision, including creating custom components or rare replacement parts.

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.

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

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

CNC machining is an effective solution for manufacturing small components such as those used in electronics applications. Technological advancements depend on small, lightweight devices and components with laser-precise parameters under 10 micrometers, and CNC machining can meet these requirements. CNC machining can also produce components to protect communication devices from interference and connect the following types of components:

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

The oil and gas industry moves at a speed that requires rapid turnarounds and occasional high-volume part processing. CNC machine industry benefits for this sector include the ability to create specialty products for jobsites. Additionally, CNC operations can produce large or small pieces for the industry, as well as the components needed for electronic gears that are becoming increasingly popular in the oil and gas sector.

All the factors above go together: A lights-out process is likely to apply small VMCs, for example. It is the overlap of factors such as these that has worked to change the feel and emphasis of machining. The result is worth stepping back to see: Productive efficiency in machine shops today is less about powering through, and more the result of process control that sometimes specifically calls for cutting light or slow.

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.

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."

The overall impact of this change on the cost of machining is not necessarily high. Cutting tools tend to be a relatively small contributor to part cost relative to other process factors. Still, machine shops purchase carbide tools frequently and routinely — the cost is apparent and it is compelling to look for ways to control it. Care in cutting parameters is one way to do this. Aggressive cutting accelerates tool wear, and as tool cost increases, the MRR may no longer be seen as worth the acceleration.

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

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

The petrochemical industry uses large machines for refineries and drilling rigs. This line of work relies on well-machined, precise-fitting parts. Precise fits prevent issues such as valve leaks, piston failures and cylinder malfunctions. Petrochemical companies also rely on precise components to maintain efficient operations.

CNC machining uses several types of devices. Milling, screw machining and machine turning operate in various methods, turning either the tools or the materials. Workers choose machining methods based on the product’s required precision and the content used. Their options are:

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.

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

CNC machining benefits several industries, and each application requires specific materials for the best results. Narrowing down all the options helps machinists arrive at the most useful and long-lasting solutions for their products. Some popular materials used in the above industries to make products and prototypes include:

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Computer numerical control (CNC) machining creates intricate parts and products for various industries. CNC machining can produce large quantities for mass production or create custom parts with precise designs and dimensions. Many companies seek CNC machining for their operations so they can follow through on accurate designs, develop consistent results and ensure parts match.  Several industries, from the medical field to transportation, rely on advanced CNC machines and technology for more intricate, customized parts and products than alternative production methods can achieve.

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

Other phenolic laminates have properties such as stability at higher temperatures, hardness and dimensional stability under different conditions. GPO3, in particular, is an electrical-grade material that achieves arc-resistant insulation in high-voltage parts such as switchgears, transformer components and TV parts. Some phenolics are even friction, abrasion and chemical-resistant, for use in various specialized industries.

Unlike other sectors, the marine industry requires a high degree of water resistance from its products because most components will have either direct water exposure or exposure to the humidity around oceans, lakes and rivers, which can wear out parts. Most electronics don’t operate well in moist or wet environments. Marine products, however, require water-resistant electrical components. A ship’s electronics need specific features, such as housings, to prevent water from hindering electrical processes. Additionally, parts that come into contact with salt water must be corrosion-resistant to prevent damage.

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.

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

Moving from an aging set of five-axis mills to more advanced machines enabled Hendrick Motorsports to dramatically improve its engine production.

Spanning 113,500 square feet, the facility will centralize the company’s storage and distribution, as well as enhance operational efficiency.

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

Drilling rigs require parts with a high tolerance because they operate in isolated areas. Replacement parts or repairs can result in days of equipment downtime, so parts manufactured for rigs must maintain long-term quality and durability. Equipment on drilling rigs may be exposed to sea salt spray, desert dust or snow from the northern plains, so it’s crucial to ensure parts can withstand these elements.

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%.

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.

Devices in the aerospace industry encounter varied conditions, including high speeds, fast air currents and extreme air pressures. To avoid aircraft damage, engineers must construct each component with the most precise parameters, tools and parts. Even a small mistake could catch on an air current, producing drag or increasing wear on the parts.

CNC machining provides the customized parts with extremely tight tolerances that aerospace companies require, enabling the industry to reach its current technological level. Having an easy means of creating experimental pieces is critical to future safety and success.

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.

CNC machining is the process of using computer software to guide machines, taking a virtual design and turning it into a tangible, three-dimensional product. This process is a form of subtractive manufacturing, meaning projects begin with a block of material that machines cut away to create the intended design. Computer programming aids the entire process, helping experts make products with extreme design accuracy.

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."

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.

Various industries depend on CNC-machined parts for different applications, which is why precision and accuracy are essential. Precision is especially crucial in industries such as aerospace, defense, petrochemical and medical, where human safety is a concern. Maintaining accurate production is paramount for these industries because precise parts help prevent accidents, injuries and serious complications. CNC machining can achieve the levels of precision necessary to save lives when it counts.

A shift toward greater use of indexable tools is another way to control carbide cost. This, too, leads to more measured cutting. An indexable tool saves cost because only the insert is carbide, but an indexable tool is also an assembly rather than a solid carbide form, potentially constraining the tool to lighter cuts as a consequence of the cost saving.

The defense industry also uses plastics to make lightweight, temperature-stable parts for antennas, microwave lenses and more. Epoxy resins are strong enough for homeland security applications and can often meet specific temperature requirements.

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.

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?

Smaller parts require tighter tolerances. Electronics and other electrical components require error-free micro-machining, and humans are incapable of achieving such accuracy levels on their own. Using a computer to cut and control the machining tools increases precision levels when creating minuscule components. The electronics industry owes its success to the superior accuracy produced by CNC machining.

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

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.

Lights-out machining — that is, capturing otherwise unused machine capacity by running unattended after employees have gone for the day — changes the priorities for success. Predictability in machining becomes valuable, and worth running more slowly to attain. When running lights-out, a high rate of material removal is not worthwhile if that cutting rate comes with, say, a 2% chance of tool failure. The 2% is very manageable by day — someone can quickly change the tool and restart production. But by night, when no one is present, that chance of failure would mean that one night out of 50 is fully lost as parts are potentially scrapped and the machine sits waiting. Settling for the lower MRR that gives a predictable rate of tool wear ultimately produces more parts when the process is unattended.

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

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.

CNC machining is also uniquely equipped to create product prototypes. With rapid prototyping, you can machine a sample product quickly and efficiently, then inspect and test it to ensure usability before mass production begins. Rapidly machining parts with precise software allows you time in the production process to implement accurate designs during testing and manufacturing and can decrease the amount of waste your company makes.

Vehicle designers and manufacturers must test physical part prototypes so they know how to adjust their original models and new designs for better results. CNC machining allows engineers to create prototypes, test their practicality and eventually make a design with the exact specifications they need.

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.

Though many people associate machining with metal, machinists successfully create parts out of other materials, such as phenolics, plastics, rigid foam and carving foam. These alternative materials increase the versatility of machining to include options that are water-resistant, long-lasting, non-conductive or have other features not found in metals.

Request information using our online form, or call our office directly at 866-774-9353 between the hours of 9am – 5pm EST, Monday to Friday.

Carving foam is ideal for fabricating seals, gaskets and electrical components. The defense industry also uses flexible, water-resistant foams for weatherproof radiofrequency products, as well as heat-resistant foams for custom homeland security projects.

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.

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.

Metal removal rate is less of a defining factor for machining success than it once was. The reasons relate to changes in tools, processes, workpieces and machines.

But various factors are now making light depths of cut with lower MRR a much more important part of machining processes shops are coming to rely on. Those factors include, at the very least, all these elements that are more prevalent today than they were less than a decade ago:

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.

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

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

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.

Foam is lightweight and soft but also dense enough to withstand various applications. Moisture and rust-resistant, rigid foam will maintain its structural integrity even when exposed to water and rough conditions, making it useful in the marine industry. Its flexibility allows it to take almost any shape through CNC machining, and it’s a great material for creating intricate, detailed shapes.

Phenolics are fabric-reinforced laminates that have high tensile and flexural strength and work well for electrical applications. Thermosetting glass-reinforced laminates, like G10/FR4, are flame-retardant, heat-stable materials often used for electrical insulation, protecting people from strong electrical currents. G10/FR4 can also be used in printed circuit boards for telecommunications devices, as well as electrical controls like timers and transformers.

The entire CNC machining process can be completed quickly, as machinists can create CAD drawings in a matter of a few days. If needed, CAD designs are easy to alter, so making, testing and adjusting 3D models or prototypes is relatively fast and simple. Additionally, cutting away from blocks of existing materials is a speedy process. In addition, CNC machines can be part of an assembly line so multiple machines can work together, efficiently producing many products or all the parts for one product simultaneously.

Marine applications also require a high degree of portability and durability. Components must last for a long time and resist compromising wear and damages, as vessels out at sea might have to wait a long time before coming back to land for repairs. CNC machining can help produce long-lasting parts by making them to exact design specifications, so they fit tightly and work well together without fail. Some of these components include:

Similar to the oil and gas industry, the defense sector requires durable parts that withstand even the harshest environments. The government sets strict regulations for military activity. Just as medical supplies must have their production fulfill rules created by the FDA, military products need to adhere to government regulations.

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.

Many aviation industry components, such as engines, are also important in the transportation and automotive industries. Product research and testing are just as vital to these industries as they are to the air and space industry because they affect safety and the ability to travel.

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

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

Commodity prices have risen in recent years, and products involving overseas shipping have been affected by supply disruptions. Tungsten carbide is an example of both; cutting tool prices have risen as a result.

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.

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.

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

Some manufacturers have their own equipment to make parts and products, using special techniques, tools and materials based on their industry’s unique needs. Other companies decide to work with professional CNC machining businesses to make their parts. Working with an experienced CNC machining company is essential because a dependable company uses advanced technology and processes to meet specific industry needs. Professional CNC machinists use the right machine, tools and materials for each job to ensure accuracy based on application.

Machining facilities have come to rely on small vertical machining centers (VMCs), including 30-taper machines, for an increasing share of production. While the three cited factors above all are strikingly more prominent today versus 10 years ago, this last trend has been building for a much longer period of time. Smaller machining centers are nimble and low in floorspace impact, while being relatively amenable to automation and inexpensive to scale up by adding more machines. In addition, the workpiece volumes the machines can hold are relatively substantial — it is cutting force that is potentially limited. Greater use of these machines inherently means greater emphasis on process tactics beyond heavy milling.

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.

CNC machining can produce components such as the following for refineries, pipelines and rigs in the oil and gas industry:

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.

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.

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

A CNC project begins with creating a design using computer-aided design (CAD) software. Designers can create virtually any object with 3D software, but they must keep in mind any material specifications or CNC machine limitations, or they’ll risk creating a piece that doesn’t match its design. For example, machines cannot replicate curved cuts, and stiff materials may not produce the expected appearance.

The military as a whole encompasses a multitude of sectors. Products and parts created for defense may seem similar to those from other industries, such as the aviation, electronics, marine, transportation and medical industries. However, these other industries don’t have as much need to keep up with the latest technology while having access to reliable parts in the most remote locations. The defense sector requires precise parts such as:

Various industries depend on CNC machining because it enables companies to create parts from multiple materials, increase precision and maintain consistency. From drill bits to medical devices, CNC machining can produce customizable components that meet the precise needs of specialized sectors.

While CNC machines use computers to accomplish much of the manufacturing on their own, machinists will often still play a role in the process. Particularly complex designs or different types of machines may require machinists to stop the operation and rotate some parts from time to time. Machining may also only be the first step before finishing touches that must be done by hand.

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.

When searching for a machining company to execute your custom ideas, partner with machinists who will bring your unique designs to life. American Micro Industries is proud to offer customized CNC machining services. Whether you’re interested in materials for your design or in collaborating with us from the beginning of your project, we’re your single source for all the processes involved in manufacturing the parts you need.

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?

Achieve higher metal removal rates and enhanced predictability with ISCAR’s advanced high-feed milling tools — optimized for today’s competitive global market.

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.

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.

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

The medical industry also uses many disposable devices to protect patients from catching infections or diseases while receiving medical care. Medical businesses require high volumes of precise parts to deliver patient care and keep their facilities stocked with essentials. Occasionally, companies may request prototypes before beginning full production, especially when testing new ideas. Prototypes are critical in the medical field, as professionals need to ensure the products work well before using them with patients.

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