Industry News

In April 2014, igus Inc., East Providence, R.I., will hold its biannual vector awards ceremony. The vector awards aim to recognize the most creative applications of the igus Energy Chain Systems. Participants can apply online to present their idea to the panel of judges, with the first, second and third prizes being awarded at the Hannover Trade Fair in Germany.

Nanotechnology developer NanoMech announced it will build a facility adjoining its existing factory in Springdale, Ark. The approximately-25,000-sq.-ft.t building will triple the size of current operations and will serve as the company's world headquarters. NanoMech produces tool coatings and other nanotechnology-based products.

Absolute Machine Tools Inc., Lorain, Ohio, has launched a new version of its website. The site provides descriptions, specifications and application information for the company's offerings of turning, milling, deep hole and gun barrel drilling machines and EDMs from OEMs including AccuteX, You Ji, Johnford, Tongtai, Nexturn, and Precihole.

TechFab, Montreal-East, Quebec, officially joined the KOMET SERVICE network with an open-house event and cocktail party for customers, business relations and city officials on Dec. 5, 2013. The company is now certified by Germany-based KOMET GROUP for the refurbishment, re-grinding and manufacture of solid carbide tools.

Use of 3-D printing for the production of parts for final products continues to follow a decade-long growth trend. According to Wohlers Report 2013, final-part production rose to 28.3 percent of the $2.2 billion spent last year on 3-D printing products and services worldwide.

Deublin Company, a manufacturer of rotary unions based in Waukegan, Ill., launched its new Web site at www.Deublin.com. The new site includes an e-commerce section where customers can select and purchase Deublin products. The site also includes detailed product specifications and application information.

Threading and grooving toolmaker Tool-Flo Manufacturing, Houston, has added polycrystalline diamond (PCD) and polycrystalline cubic boron nitride (PCBN) tools to its product line. The ultrahard materials allow for longer tool life when cutting abrasive materials such as graphite, hard rubber, plastics, carbon, fiberglass components, ceramics, wood, copper, bronze, brass and aluminum alloys, and permit higher removal rates and faster cycle times.