Metal Parts Follow Tough Plastics Act April 1, 2010 When you walk into the Redeye On Demand facility in Eden Prairie, MN, you enter into one version of the factory of the future. There you will see a bank of 100 high-end Fortus fused-deposition modeling (FDM) machines from Stratasys that provide the capacity to build real, functional parts with production-grade thermoplastics directly from CAD data.
Tooling to Match Composite Production April 1, 2009 It’s getting harder to imagine any market that isn’t benefiting from the latest developments in parts manufactured from advanced composites. “Advanced composites will arguably dominate consumer and production products, especially in the near future,” says Bert Erdel, industry consultant and executive technology advisor, Morris Group Inc. (Windsor, CT), “as they have begun to gain wide acceptance in solving energy-related issues.”
Solutions for Difficult Machining January 1, 2009 The machining challenges for two of the most advanced concepts in cutting tool materials are pretty well known. Cubic boron nitride (CBN) tools of varying designs are being used to cut hardened ferrous metals with or without interrupted cuts, as well as welded and clad metals.
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.
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).
It’s Not a Game November 30, 2023 San Diego research engineer turns an enjoyable pastime into a life-saving passion
Closing the Loop on Quality and Efficiency November 29, 2023 Closed-loop manufacturing (CLM) is emerging as a viable approach to address tighter delivery timelines and supply chain challenges.
Pushing the Boundaries of Multi-Axis Machining November 17, 2023 A decade ago, when multi-axis machining was still in its nascent manufacturing stages, FK Instrument Co. was already pushing the boundaries of precision.
BioMADE: Catalyzing the Bioindustrial Manufacturing Revolution November 2, 2023 Securing America’s future through biomanufacturing innovation, education and collaboration
Preventative Maintenance is Key to Profitability October 26, 2023 Examine the importance of preventive maintenance in maximizing your profitability. This article provides five essential strategies, from baseline tests to utilizing OEM support, to ensure your machinery stays in peak condition, minimizing downtime and costly postmortem repairs.