October 2021
Digital Issue
Automotive Automation: When watching today's industrial robot arms in action it is hard to believe the first robot arm, the Unimate, weighed 1.6 tons with only a 12 kg payload. Today's arms are slimmer, lighter, the payload is higher, and controllers are much smaller. Demand for automation continues to escalate as companies search for ways to optimize operations and relieve employees of monotonous work — at this time only a small percentage of factory work is automated. "How Automotive Robotics Have Paved the Way for Modern Automation" tells us how the automotive industry proving grounds evolved into robots at work in a variety of manufacturing processes. Find out what's next for automation.
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Many machine shop owners are planning to make capital investments within the next year, which includes machinery. There are a few questions you should consult with your lender when dceciding if it’s better to lease or take out a loan.
Machine tending robots have revolutionized manufacturing and offer multiple mounting options, which allow you to save floor space, increase throughput and overcome labor issues, among other benefits.
Automated measurements of workpieces in machines are progressively more important in today’s manufacturing processes, resulting in shorter production times and fewer interruptions. What’s more, there is more confidence when it comes to the measurement process.
The ability for an ERP system to integrate with third-party Internet of Things technologies has become one of its most important features — and a powerful competitive advantage.
Many machine shop owners are planning to make capital investments within the next year, which includes machinery. There are a few questions you should consult with your lender when dceciding if it’s better to lease or take out a loan.
Machine tending robots and equipment guard systems assist your facility in increasing production output in a secure environment.
Machine tending robots have revolutionized manufacturing and offer multiple mounting options, which allow you to save floor space, increase throughput and overcome labor issues, among other benefits.
Demand for automation continues to escalate as companies search for ways to optimize operations — at this time only a small percentage of factory work is automated. Factory automation has come a long way — where to next?
Artificial intelligence and machine learning will continue to influence and disrupt manufacturing, generating processes that get smarter with each new software and computing development. Manufacturing simulation has a key role to play.
An increasing number of facilities are using flexible, portable robot platforms, which can be maneuvered throughout a factory to perform tasks. By robotically automating one or more elements on the shop floor, machine shops can not only increase productivity and OEE, but also realize a better ROI.
From the factory of origin to the final destination, dot-matrix codes can help track, trace and inform everyone in the product lifecycle. The dot-matrix code really is one of the most basic, and important, tools of Industry 4.0.
There is a bright side to the challenges machine shops are dealing with. Get ahead of the issues and the positives in the manufacturing economy will see you to the other side. The experiences of a die stamping company in Connecticut may sound familiar; learn how their pro-active measures are making a difference.
Top-notch sawing systems and saw blades get the job done right.
Many machine shop owners are planning to make capital investments within the next year, which includes machinery. There are a few questions you should consult with your lender when dceciding if it’s better to lease or take out a loan.
Machine tending robots and equipment guard systems assist your facility in increasing production output in a secure environment.
Machine tending robots have revolutionized manufacturing and offer multiple mounting options, which allow you to save floor space, increase throughput and overcome labor issues, among other benefits.
Innovative tools and equipment are available to support today’s gear manufacturing processes and keep the wheels of production spinning.
Demand for automation continues to escalate as companies search for ways to optimize operations — at this time only a small percentage of factory work is automated. Factory automation has come a long way — where to next?
An increasing number of facilities are using flexible, portable robot platforms, which can be maneuvered throughout a factory to perform tasks. By robotically automating one or more elements on the shop floor, machine shops can not only increase productivity and OEE, but also realize a better ROI.
There will always be economic uncertainties that the best planning can’t predict. The past two years have taught us that. For welding shops, the ability to partner with a supplier such as ABICOR BINZEL USA, which provides outstanding products and industry expertise, as well as the ability to adapt to fast moving trends, goes a long way toward keeping your operations in motion and your customers happy.
Laser welding allows your team to produce narrow deep welds, commonly used in high volume applications, at fast speeds.
Demand for automation continues to escalate as companies search for ways to optimize operations — at this time only a small percentage of factory work is automated. Factory automation has come a long way — where to next?
Planning for a robotic welding project should focus on the process and the specific project. After following these tips, conduct a trial to gauge problems before you start full production.
A targeted and calibrated approach to lubrication ensures fluids arrive exactly where they need to be, when they need to be there, and in the correct amount, ensuring metalworkers are confident in their ability to make good parts.
Tracking and managing tools with tool cribs and vending machines keeps tools accessible, safe and secure, and ensures accuracy in the job costing process.
Today’s tool presetters capture all the data associated with a tool in order to expediate setup in the tool crib, reduce scrap and waste, and even track what’s happening on the shop floor. Presetters act as a communication/data hub, capable of integrating with CAM software.
Innovative tools and equipment are available to support today’s gear manufacturing processes and keep the wheels of production spinning.
3D printing technology is becoming more mainstream. For example, AM allows for a high degree of freedom when designing a tool for a particular application.
Save money and time by selecting the proper abrasive designed for the type of thickness and material, as well as application requirements, for the job at hand.
Automated measurements of workpieces in machines are progressively more important in today’s manufacturing processes, resulting in shorter production times and fewer interruptions. What’s more, there is more confidence when it comes to the measurement process.
There are three important features to look for when deciding on a touch probe for in-process use.
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