Single-minute exchange of dies is a lean manufacturing concept that has grown beyond the world of metal forming. It now stands for any lean exercise that attempts to reduce changeover time to single-digit minutes. In implementing such a program, manufacturing managers need to understand the common pitfalls that plague these efforts.

Servo transfer modules can help transform unused stamping press capacity into a viable metal forming resource. However, before a stamper can explore this newfound capability, it needs to determine just what type of transfer technology makes sense.

Becky and Michael Miniea purchased processing company that was in dire financial straits in the months after 9/11, and with a commitment offerings and its customers, Specialty Metals Processing is now in a position to survive whatever this economy can throw at it.