Heavy plate fabricators drill and mill plate to achieve tight tolerances. But these metal cutting tools exert significant forces on the workpiece vibration, particularly in large workpieces such as plate. When machining in general and especially in large plate, three major factors work together: cutting tool selection, milling strategy, and workpiece setup.

Shop rolls beams for a unique place of worship--using an unusual process Abstract: Hardwick Co., a rolling shop in Birmingham, Ala., used its unusual induction beam rolling process to form beams into complex shapes involving multiple radii. Without such capability, the impressive design of the Ave Maria Oratory would not have been possible.

The fiber laser and plasma systems share similar delivery systems. Neither require any kind of optical alignment between the power source and cutting head. The two thermal cutting processes share many similarities, from an integration standpoint, which is why the two now can be integrated onto a single cutting table.

Modern wire-feeding technology can boost welders' performances and overall productivity. If they are working with old feeding equipment, disadvantage

Precise assist gas delivery is essential in CO₂ laser cutting. The resonator is a key component, especially if gas delivery will be uninterrupted for unattended machine operation. Assist gas volume and pressure also must be appropriate for the application to ensure the best results.

Jacob Melton quit his desk job in Chicago, drove home to Houston, and with his father bought a metal fabrication company. Several years later, even after a severe recession, it turns out that was a smart career move.

The prototype shop at International Gaming Technologies employs serious talent. They take a sheet metal part through the entire fabrication process, from laser cutting and bending to welding and grinding. To qualify for a job here requires technical knowhow about a variety of manufacturing processes. This is why management has decided to use FMA’s Precision Sheet Metal Operator certification as a benchmark.

Columnist Gerald Davis provides some tips on getting that 2-D drawing--derived from the 3-D model--to manufacturing in the best shape possible.