Machining

News • March 19, 2014

EMAG launches apprentice program

EMAG LLC, a Farmington Hills, Mich.-based machine tool supplier, has launched an apprentice training program to encourage continuing growth in Michigan's mechatronics manufacturing industry and ensure an advanced workforce to close the sector's skills gap. Developed in conjunction with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Oakland Community College and Henry Ford Community College, the program offers high-school graduates a career in machine mechatronics, a discipline incorporating electrical, electronic and mechanical studies, providing all graduates an advanced associate's degree.

News • March 3, 2014

SMTCL announces March open house

Machine tool manufacturer SMTCL-Americas will hold a "March Machine Madness" open house event on March 20, 2014 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at its City of Industry, Calif. technical center at 17038 E. Gale Ave. Various experts will host seminars on robotics and automation, 5-axis machining, titanium machining, new developments in CAD software and innovations in tooling.

Articles • March 1, 2014 • Thomas Van Hersh

Up in the valley

Valley Tool invests in high-performance machine tools to effectively compete and grow.

Articles • March 1, 2014 • Tom Lipton

Still more CNC lathe tips

Following the theme of the past two Shop Operations columns, here are some additional tips and tricks for operating a CNC lathe.

Articles • March 1, 2014 • Alan Richter

Refurbishing toolmaking productivity

Reduce equipment uptime and improve productivity when friction welding cutting tool shanks to heads. Replacing an old friction welding machine with a refurbished one.

Articles • March 1, 2014 • Christopher Tate

Justifying custom cutting tools

When possible, manufacturers should avoid applying custom cutting tools because they typically cost more than standard catalog items and can be used only for a single purpose. In addition, it is difficult to substitute other tools in place of a special when it is out of stock, and lead times for new custom tools can be long.

Articles • March 1, 2014 • Alan Richter

Shaving tool-change time saves big bucks

Reduce setup and changeover time on lathes with live tooling. A modular quick-change collet system.

Articles • March 1, 2014 • Alan Richter

Robot colleagues boost the bottom line

Up productivity without increasing payroll. Adding robotic production.

Articles • March 1, 2014 • Kathy Deren

Open letter from machinist’s wife

It's 6 a.m. and the wind chill is -45° F. As I watch you get ready for work, your gait is a little slower these days, and I have to talk a little louder because your hearing is not as good after being around loud machinery for more than 30 years. After you go, I settle down with my tea and peruse your latest CTE column. I always try to read them, because you discuss your career, the places you've gone and the marvels you've seen. I come across the line, "I can't wait to get to work each day."

Articles • March 1, 2014 • Dr. Scott Smith

Lubricating spindle bearings

Spindle designers deal with lubrication and heat problems in three common ways: chilled oil, oil mist and air/oil injection.

Articles • March 1, 2014 • Kip Hanson

Adapt and conquer

Adaptive control helps CNC machines produce more parts.

Articles • March 1, 2014 • Alan Richter

‘Last word’ in machining

Omega Manufacturing specializes in challenging wire EDM work, but also offers one-stop parts manufacturing.