Articles & Columns

Tools and techniques for engraving 2-D data matrix bar codes on machined metal parts.

Manufacturers large and small develop strategies to quickly redesign and machine new parts for military customers.

Machine Technology column for the October 2011 issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine helps find stable machining with the 'super diagram.'

The Look Ahead feature in the October 2011 issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine mentions a CNC rotary transfer machine that approaches the productivity of a mechanically controlled machine and can produce microscale parts.

Machinist's Corner column in the October 2011 issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine suggests that now is the time to tap into unallocated company funds.

Part Time column for the October 2011 issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine visits with an Indianapolis shop that machines robotic mower components.

END USER: Colt Defense LLC, (800) 241-2485, www.colt.com. CHALLENGE: Eliminate concerns about part accuracy and cutting tool runout when machining faster than 9,000 rpm. SOLUTION: A press-fit toolholding system. SOLUTION PROVIDER: REGO-FIX Tool Corp., (800) 999-7346, www.rego-fix.com

Fine finishing with a wire EDM eliminates need for secondary operations.

Manager's Desk column for October 2011 issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine looks at overcoming disruptions caused by information overload.

The Get With The Program column for the October 2011 issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine discusses Mastercam's Dynamic Mill, which offers self-aware roughing toolpaths.

How microscopes and vision systems are used in machine shops for noncontact inspection and measurement.

END USER: Milwaukee Machine Works Inc., (414) 476-3285, www.milwaukeemachineworks.com. CHALLENGE: More accurately measure and document extremely large parts. SOLUTION: An ultraprecise coordinate measuring machine with a capacity for large parts. SOLUTION PROVIDER: Hexagon Metrology Inc., (401) 886-2000, www.hexagonmetrology.com

A heat-treat process to anneal and bright age-harden stainless steels without breaking vacuum.

Technology, experience and attitude breeds grinding success—on a very small scale.

END USER: Superior Drilling Products, (435) 789-0594, www.superiordrillingproducts.com. CHALLENGE: Without prior experience, program a multitask machine. SOLUTION: Using CAM software with online training resources and local support. SOLUTION PROVIDERS: CNC Software Inc., (800) 228-2877, www.mastercam.com; Remote Machine, (801) 942-2792, www.remotemachinecnc.com

A high-ionization technology that enables enhanced customization of tool coatings.

Getting a grip on bench work.

Since the dawn of CNC milling, machinists have been trying to squeeze more parts onto the table and position them quicker. That’s because to a machinist, it’s all about reducing setup time and cranking out more parts per hour.

'Lightweighting' vehicles through the use of magnesium parts can improve vehicle mileage and impact resistance, among other benefits.

High-speed machining requires hybrid spindle bearings.