Micro components continue to shrink in size, demanding ever-greater precision and improved handling of parts with sub-micron-sized features. New approaches in micro machining technology include higher-precision systems from traditional micro machining developers, as well as techniques using additive manufacturing processes and semiconductor wafer-scale technology on the smallest of micro parts.
The challenges to manufacturing as it evolves into the 21st century are now familiar, and impact how metrology must contribute. Manufacturers face uncertain production volumes with roller-coaster demand, shorter production runs and faster product development cycles. Automation, while alluring as a way to reduce cost, needs to adjust.
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.
Looking back on a long career of learning, sharing, and always trying to do your best.
Heat-resistant superalloys resist heat—and easy cutting. Industry experts offer solutions.
This year’s RAPID + TCT show signaled a new wave of users, with 35 percent of the audience being new to adopting additive manufacturing technologies.
Whether transmitted through wires or the air, data collected from older factory devices can help a shop owner make smarter business decisions.
To raise the bar on the status quo in unlimited hydroplanes, Ellstrom Racing started Five-Axis Industries, which in the beginning was essentially a hobby shop specializing in five-axis machining to make difficult-to-manufacture parts from hard metals, including titanium and stainless alloys.
The Department of Defense has awarded Micross Components $134.3 million under the IBAS Cornerstone RESHAPE program.
The best way to solve the skills gap is to ignite the already existing and yet dormant fuel of curiosity inside of young minds.
