As existing customer bases shrink, fabricators must take advantage of all possible mediums to attract new customers. Those who establish a strong online presence stand the best chance of reaching prospective buyers, 60 percent of whom begin the buying process online.

In his first installment of DIEVESTIGATION, a new column about using research and data to solve stamping problems, tool and die expert Art Hedrick discusses how the metal specified during part design affects downstream operations and costs. What should you consider when selecting the metal?

Now processing a greater variety of materials with their lasers, fabricators are exploring new assist gas blends of up to four gases. What's the best way to blend and deliver these gases? For some, on-site blending systems can help optimize cost savings and improve quality.

Based on feedback from "Welding Wire" subscribers, you have to wonder if CareerCast.com interviewed any welders when compiling its 2010 list of the best and worst jobs. Welding was the No. 5 worst job on the list, and welders question its ranking.