Today's laser sources have the power and beam quality needed to cut and join metal in an expeditious and repetitious manner. The market demands that type of flexible production, so those characteristics are basic requirements in modern laser devices. The market demands also have promoted the idea of multifunctional processing. That has led to the development of a combination head capable of laser cutting and welding 3-D metal work pieces.

Reducing the damaging effects of fractures, burnishing, burrs, and rollover improves subsequent forming processes. The blanked edge condition can be improved by adjusting the punch and die clearance tolerance, shaving the area of the defected blanked edge, designing an appropriate contact profile of the tool and die, and understanding the mechanical properties of the sheet metal used.

Choosing the right hydraulic press for your application is crucial. Identifying the right press capability up front can eliminate additional costs and startup delays. Four primary hydraulic press return capabilities are return on position, return on pressure, return on pressure with dwell capability, or combinations of the three. Shown is a press with return on pressure capabilities.

Many customers are brand-loyal. How you sell to these individuals, some of whom may have preconceived notions of what they want, will determine your sales success.

By recognizing the myths and understanding the realities of protecting your business, you can make simple strategic refinements to help give you true peace of mind when it comes to product liability.

When you want to bid on a government contract, getting the technical data you need, including specifications and drawings, is critical.

Evaluating the gas equipment you need to produce the shielding mixture you want for optimal laser hybrid welding is critical. Different shielding gases yield different results and should be considered carefully for your specific application.