CNC Programming & Simulation

New nesting software and a post-processor reduce programming time and material consumption at I-Cherng Refrigerationn

Machine tool manufacturer and Industry 4.0 pioneer TRUMPF has opened a new technology center in Chicago that showcases the interaction between people, machines, storage technology, automation, software and Industry 4.0 solutions. The company calls it "the first smart factory for Industry 4.0 solutions that was designed for digitally connected production processes throughout."

CHALLENGE: Reduce setup and cycle times while meeting customers' demands for high-quality parts. SOLUTION: Two horizontal machining centers. END USER: Reinhold Industries Ltd., (780) 434-8552, www.rilflo.com. SOLUTION PROVIDER: Methods Machine Tools Inc., (877) MMT-4CNC, www.methodsmachine.com.

Len Graham, Business Unit Leader, Rexam Mold Manufacturing, discusses the motivation behind the Buffalo Grove, Ill., company's decision to build a Mega Cell automated mold manufacturing system. Graham offers a detailed walk-through of the company's Mega Cell, which began operation in March 2013.

Part Time: While some shops shy away from difficult projects, others welcome them. According to Bob Perkins, president of PDS (Precision Defense Services) Industries, Irwin, Pa., the company has built its business on doing things others can't do.

From simple bushings to critical engine components, producing replacement aircraft parts requires unwavering commitment.

A shop combines two machines to efficiently produce a gas hose seal.

Part Time column for the October 2011 issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine visits with an Indianapolis shop that machines robotic mower components.

The Allied Machine & Engineering Corp. HOLEMAKING Calculator is an easy-to-use guide that helps any machinist efficiently run tooling, minimizing the chance for scrapped material or broken tooling.

Many manufacturers apply finishes such as black oxide, metal plating, adhesives and sealants to their parts. One key question is whether to apply those finishes in-house or outsource the operation. For many shops, the decision is based on part volume, cost of capital and practical considerations.

Part Time columnist Bill Kennedy visits a Minnesota job shop that makes "light" work of a challenging part in the June issue of Cutting Tool Engineering magazine.

When it comes to milling aerospace parts made from Ti5553, difficulty is in the eye of the beholder.