Industry News

In 2019, we expect a continued strong, robust manufacturing sector. Even if there is some slowdown, the challenge for many companies this year remains, "How do we generate more with less?" as they face labor and talent shortages and increasing prices for labor, energy and cost of materials.

The fact that polycrystalline diamonds (PCD) could "show profile" in October 1978 could be attributed to random chance, but could it have something to do with "luck"? But how did golf professional Tiger Woods answer when a journalist pointed out that he often had a lot of luck during his games? "The more I train, the more luck I have."

The Manufacturing Institute announced they will award Danielle Allen with the Women in Manufacturing STEP (Science, Technology, Engineering and Production) Ahead Award. The STEP Ahead Awards honor women who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in their careers and represent all levels of the manufacturing industry, from the factory-floor to the C suite.

The market performance of the machine tool sector is highly dependent on commodity prices, macroeconomic conditions and sector performance (e.g., automotive, construction, aerospace, and ship building). According to IHS Markit Economy and Country Risk (ECR) information, a global recession is highly unlikely to occur in 2019. However, due to weaker global trade, pollical uncertainties, and other headwinds, global machine tools production revenue will only begin to improve late in 2020 or early in 2021.

To address the often-vexing questions about Industry 4.0, there is a new smart Manufacturing blog named Ask the Machine Whisperer? This blog is intended to educate the manufacturing community about all things DNC, machine monitoring and IT networking. The blog is interactive, as there is a dedicated page where readers get to ask their own questions of Steven "the Machine Whisperer" Anderson.

Boeing Co. has begun a sweeping transformation of its quality system, including the use of smart tools and automation. It also will eliminate thousands of quality checks because they are no longer necessary. The company told its union that it will cut about 450 quality inspector positions this year and potentially a similar number next year.

Micro-Laser Assisted Machining Technologies Inc. makes laser-based tools to improve machining for ceramics, silicon and metal. The lasers generate heat of about 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit at a tiny point a tenth the width of a human hair, softening the target, greatly reducing cutting time and decreasing cutting tool wear.

When it comes to cost-saving techniques, many manufacturers instinctively look toward making cuts; this could mean anything from laying off employees to pulling back on new technology. However, these methods can bring down morale and quash innovation, which allows competitors to get ahead.

With words like quality, innovation and superior service defining this global manufacturer, it was only natural that the company would seek a partner with equally high standards when it came time to source its new centerless grinder.

Avon Machining LLC in Shelby Township, Michigan, needed enterprise resource planning that would integrate seamlessly across manufacturing operations and provide easier access to real-time information. The company decided to implement ERP from Plex Systems Inc.

Manufacturing is in the midst of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, also known as Industry 4.0, and constant plant floor changes are forcing companies to keep up with the rapid pace or risk becoming lost and falling behind.

Master Fluid Solutions continues its commitment to its customers across the globe with the announcement of its new precision machining center. Known worldwide for its TRIM, long-lasting, premium-performance and aerospace-approved metalworking fluids, Master Fluids Solutions continues to invest in the development of state-of-the-art cutting and grinding fluids to surpass their worldwide customers' ever-increasing needs for more efficient metalworking fluids that deliver exactly what is needed directly to the point of cut.