All about machining metal 3D-printed parts
Learn the latest on hybrid machine tools, large-scale printed parts and material removal from CTE contributors.
Editorial
Alan Richter
Alan Richter, a 40-plus-year veteran journalist, has spent the last 25 years covering the metalworking industry for Cutting Tool Engineering and currently serves as its editor-at-large. Contact him at [email protected].
Editor-at-large
Email: alan@ctepubs.com
Published content
Considerations when implementing a manufacturing software system
When parts manufacturers enter the world of Industry 4.0, in which their operations are data driven, they will need production control software, such as a program for enterprise resource planning or materials requirement planning. In his new book "How to Implement a Manufacturing System," Martin Bailey covers the best practices and pitfalls when implementing an MRP/ERP system.
Book targets oil and gas industry
Although the book doesn't cover machining parts, "Blowout" by Rachel Maddow, host of "The Rachel Maddow Show" on MSNBC, does examine an industry that's a major consumer of precision machined parts—oil and gas.
Heat treating in-house: People & Companies
Buying a furnace or an oven to heat treat parts offers advantages compared with outsourcing.
Book covers basic benchwork
Although the title of a book I received a digital review copy of is "Basic Benchwork for Home Machinists," it contains information that even metalworking professionals might implement on the shop floor or at least enjoy reading.
Automation and 5-axis machining on display at WIMTS
As manufacturers continue to be challenged by a shortage of skilled workers and the need to boost productivity, automation remains a topic of significant interest. That was certainly the case at the Wisconsin Manufacturing & Technology Show. The biennial trade show took place Oct. 8-10 at the Exposition Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park, West Allis, Wisconsin.
New metalworking book guides the way
After a bit of a hiatus, I received a new book about metalworking, "Essential Guide to Metals and Manufacturing" by Krishan Katyal. The author is a mechanical engineer who has worked for four decades designing and manufacturing machine tools, consumer appliances, diesel-electric locomotives and heavy concrete construction products for Chicago area companies.
Hard milling and 5-axis machining at MC Machinery open house
MC Machinery Systems is known as a supplier of Mitsubishi EDMs and laser machines, and Mitsubishi EDM/Laser is prominently displayed on the company's headquarters in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, but several seminars focused on hard milling and 5-axis machining were presented during its EDM National open house. The event took place Sept. 26.
The combination of building and removing material
As additive manufacturing and 3D printing of metal parts continues to make inroads into production environments, the need to efficiently and effectively finish-machine them when typically required gains importance.
Grinding gets smart
A builder of grinding machines is adding digital services to improve product performance.
Easing the grind: Medical Manufacturing
Having a tool and cutter grinder in a machine shop provides multiple advantages.
Working hard to avoid workhardening
Thread milling nickel-base superalloys requires minimizing workhardening.
