Cutting Tools for Composites April 1, 2009 Machining composites presents unique challenges compared to metals. Reinforcement fibers are abrasive, shortening tool life. The plastic matrix carries away little heat, unlike metal chips, and overheating can melt the matrix.
Standardized Work May 1, 2008 Taiichi Ohno is often quoted as declaring: “Without a standard, there can be no improvement.” The principles of lean do not work well when everyone is allowed to choose their own work method or work sequence in which to do a job: the outcome is unpredictable; flow and pull are impossible. This reduces throughput and the carefully crafted process develops unanticipated outcomes.
Lean Efforts Capture the Shingo November 1, 2007 A subsidiary of HNI Corp. (Mustacine, IA), the second-largest manufacturer of office furniture in North America, Hearth & Home Technologies (HHT; Mt. Pleasant, IA) manufactures sheetmetal fireplaces (both wood and gas-burning), vent pipe, and fireplace accessories. The company has four manufacturing facilities.
Advanced Technologies Supplement: Processes Reduce Composite Costs April 1, 2007 Composites engineers are expanding their craft to build more complex, durable parts at higher production volumes. One way they are achieving this objective is by using infusion-molding processes based on Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) and Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM).
Automation in Lean Manufacturing July 1, 2007 Common misperceptions about lean manufacturing and automation systems lead many manufacturing managers to dismiss the use of automation in a lean setting.
Spirit AeroSystems Announces Leadership Transition October 3, 2023 Spirit AeroSystems announces Patrick M. Shanahan as interim CEO, succeeding Thomas C. Gentile III, who resigned from the Board. Shanahan, a seasoned aerospace executive with Department of Defense experience, will lead the company while a search for a new CEO is conducted.
U.S. Manufacturing Trends Amid 11-Month Contraction October 2, 2023 U.S. Manufacturing Shows Resilience Amid 11th Consecutive Month of Contraction
Next-Gen Continuous Fiber Tech October 2, 2023 Northrop Grumman's SCRAM system revolutionizes additive manufacturing with integrated continuous carbon fiber for aerospace and defense. It offers cost-effective build-on-demand capabilities, streamlines certification processes, and enhances agility in responding to evolving customer needs.
Meet the Modern Makers Who Help Power the Manufacturing USA Network October 4, 2023 They are 16 creators at heart. They are passionate about their work and how they are helping chart a new course for domestic advanced manufacturing. They are the Modern Makers.
AI-based Solutions for Maximizing Throughput September 29, 2023 AI and IIoT technologies are revolutionizing advanced manufacturing, tackling labor shortages, optimizing production, and reducing costs, with real-world success stories highlighting substantial improvements in efficiency and productivity.