People & Companies

Jergens Inc. announces fixture plate machining kits and new receiver bushing plugs for its popular line of Ball Lock quick-change mounting systems. The machining kits consist of one fixture plate, four extra-long Ball Lock shanks and four spacers that provide clearance between the fixture plate and subplate below. This open space allows cutting tools to "break through" the fixture plate without damaging the subplate, making it possible to machine fixture plates while mounted to the same subplates they will be used with during production.

MxD and AT&T announced they are working together to help accelerate the deployment of 5G to the U.S. manufacturing industry. AT&T is collaborating with MxD (Manufacturing times Digital) to install 5G technology and Multi-access Edge Compute (MEC) within MxD's Chicago-based innovation center dedicated to advancing manufacturing innovation.

Sandvik Coromant is strengthening its capabilities in digital manufacturing by signing a strategic research agreement with PARC, a Xerox company, world-renowned innovation center. PARC will provide Sandvik Coromant with a footprint in Silicon Valley and expert resources for R&D in the field of digital manufacturing.

ARCH, a Jordan Company platform company that is focused on manufacturing precision cutting tools, precision machined components and medical implants and instruments, has acquired Siem Tool Co., Latrobe, Pennsylvania. Siem Tool is a manufacturer of customized solid-carbide drills, endmills, reamers, thread mills and form tools. Siem Tool will join ARCH's Cutting Tools division.

Almost everyone has become accustomed to smart phones, smart televisions, and even the concept of smart cars. And technology has advanced far enough that people understand generally what expectations of functionality are associated with the use of the word "smart" in front of a word. But outside of the consumer product sphere, the companies that produce those goods, and all the "non-smart" goods as well, are beginning to benefit from the same technologies.

Mitsubishi Electric, DMG Mori and Yaskawa Electric are among 100 major Japanese manufacturers set to share production data with each other to improve efficiency, using blockchain technology to ensure their information remains secure.

Most manufacturers have invested in some type of technology to run their businesses, whether it's new equipment, robotics, software or business intelligence tools. Each year, Plex Systems Inc. conducts a survey that gathers insights on how manufacturers use technology to solve day-to-day challenges, as well as major industry challenges. The fourth annual State of Manufacturing Technology Report reveals that manufacturers investing in technologies that enable a connected environment are more resilient and optimistic about the challenges ahead.

JW Winco Inc. announced it has expanded its line of GN 113.10 heavy-duty ball lock pins stainless steel, with stainless steel shank AISI 630. The GN 113.10 stainless steel rapid release pins have an extreme load capacity and are used for quick fixing, connecting and locking of various parts and workpieces.

Kennametal answers with turret-adapted clamping units and quick-change toolholders.

Despite automation's advantages, the machining industry has yet to put down the pen and paper.

Toolmaker launched its coatings division a year ago with a $2.2M investment.

Keith Jennings reflects on the for better or worse nature of family businesses.