Fabrication & Cutting

High-power laser machines—at least 5,000w—are more useful in machine shops because their power permits fast processing of thicker materials, materials more like the blocks machined by the metalcutting industry. Also, automation allows for more cost-effective laser machining.

Several types of cutting tools can be protected with coatings harder than regular A1TiN coatings by combining A1TiN grains with an amorphous silicon-nitride matrix.

To increase productivity, the aerospace industry should consider different tool materials for faster cutting speeds, tool coatings for reduced wear, and machine tools for quicker cycle times.

Pros and cons of waterjet cutting at the highest available pressure.

Machining more effectively with a new, more focused ultraviolet laser.

PVD titanium-diboride coating machines aluminum without built-up edge.

Waterjet technology helps custom fabricator offer additional products. Innovative waterjet cutting drives growth for stainless steel fabricator.

Chemically assisted finishing for better part performance and durability. Microsurfacing is an alternative finishing process with benefits that extend beyond parts with supersmooth surfaces.

The role of microabrasive blasting when finishing implantable medical parts.

Automation of sawing operations. Just as there are numerous ways to saw bar stock, multiple methods exist to automate the sawing operation.

Machinists can reduce or prevent burrs in the metalcutting process.

Thin-film coatings evolve to improve cutting performance and accommodate new tool and workpiece materials.