Until the middle of 2010, first-tier subcontract machinist, JJ Churchill, could produce turbine blades only if they had their fir-tree root-forms preground elsewhere, or if they were subsequently added by another subcontractor. No longer is this the case.
Why use a metrology device on or near a machine tool? It isn’t just useful for making sure a tool is present or monitoring tools for wear or breakage. On-machine measurement technologies can save time and money, by speeding up processes and eliminating extra personnel, and they are a critical step in the movement towards “lights-out” manufacturing.
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.
Optimizing performance by teaming different materials.
Bogi Lateiner and the women of Girl Gang Garage prove that the world of wrenching, welding, and wickedly cool cars is anything but a “boys only” club
There could be a better way for manufacturing. One that teams additive manufacturing (AM) with green materials, while promising to erect structures much faster and cheaper.
By improving efficiency, reducing labor costs, and enhancing product quality, vacuum tables offer aerospace manufacturers a competitive edge in the production of composite parts and adhesive-bonded structures.
Jared Leick, machining center product group manager of Mazak Corp. discusses how horizontal machining and automation revolutionized production at Aerotech inc., enhancing precision and productivity in high-mix/low-volume manufacturing.
Experience the future of precision aerospace manufacturing as Starrag partners with Zeiss to revolutionize accuracy and efficiency.
