How Machine Shops Can Benefit from New Automation Technology October 9, 2020 As automation technology becomes more effective, cost effective, and easier to implement, job shops are automating more and more of their processes. In this episode, Alan Rooks, editor in chief of Manufacturing Engineering magazine, talks with Michael Gaunce, group manager, stationary workholding for Schunk Inc., about what a small to medium size job shop should consider when starting and exploration into automation; the particular machines or jobs that are easier to automate over others; why high part quantities are not needed in order to automate a job; what types of skills a shop should look for in employees working with automation; and how to define categories for the different styles of automation used in machine tool tending.
Exactly How to Use Automation to Relieve Pressure September 16, 2020 Catalytic CEO Sean Chou explains the difference between process automation and robotic automation, as well as what it looks like to use automation to augment existing workflows. Importantly, he describes how manufacturers can use automation to do more with less—to lessen supply chain pressures that have grown because of globalization and the Covid-19 crisis. And he details which processes manufacturers can automate to optimize resources and productivity.
Automating Aerospace Manufacturing with FANUC April 29, 2020 Aerospace is thought of as the industry with some of the most advanced technology, including automation. However, especially in automation, that may not be exactly true. In this podcast, Bruce Morey senior technical editor for Manufacturing Engineering magazine talks with Rick Schulz of FANUC America about some of the challenges and misperceptions in using automation more fully in aerospace manufacturing. Mistakes to be avoided, such as simply replacing humans with a robot, and how to use collaborative robots. The main message is that employing automation to its fullest requires a systematic approach to the entire manufacturing process.
The New Imperative: Improving Operations Through Industry 4.0 December 11, 2019 When it comes to being successful, manufacturers today have more tools than ever to succeed. Chris Mahar, Associate Editor of Manufacturing Engineering, talks with Jeff Lage, President, Advanced Manufacturing Technologies at Ellison Technologies, about how Industry 4.0 is helping manufacturers improve operations through data collection and insights. Providing tips on how businesses can get the most capacity out of their machines, remove waste and enable their machines do more.
New Approaches to Digitalization, Automation and Additive Manufacturing December 27, 2019 Industry 4.0, Automation and 3D printing are three of the hottest topics in manufacturing, and this podcast targets all three! Listen in as Alan Rooks, Editor in Chief of Manufacturing Engineering magazine, talks with Steve Fruehe, pre-sales solutions consultant, and Zach Gray, strategic business developer for Siemens about the basics of digitalization; approaches to gathering and storing the required data; and how app development figures into the equation.
IoT Tech Accelerates Among Manufacturers: Survey July 25, 2017 Manufacturers are accelerating use of Internet of Things (IoT) technology, according to a survey of 66 companies.
Northrop Grumman Lands $9.6-M Navy Torpedo Contract July 6, 2017 The U.S. Navy has awarded Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) a $9.6 million contract, with options up to $40.5 million, to produce the Transducer Array/Nose Shell Assembly of the MK 48 heavyweight torpedo.
FCA, Toyota, Faurecia, AP&T Win Lightweighting Awards July 31, 2017 Altair and the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) have announced the winners of the 5th annual Altair Enlighten Award, which strives to promote and celebrate innovation in automotive lightweighting.
Driving the Digital Factory with Real-Time MES Data July 21, 2017 With the push toward a fully digital factory, manufacturing execution systems (MES) software has never been more critical to manufacturers of all stripes.
Faurecia Executive Says Industry 4.0 Is Succeeding July 31, 2017 An executive of automotive supplier Faurecia (Nanterre, France) said the company is succeeding with its Industry 4.0 efforts and is looking forward future advancements.