- Home
- MyFab
- Tech Cells
- Assembly
- Automation and Robotics
- Bending
- CAD/CAM Software
- Cutting
- Finishing
- Folding
- Hydroforming
- Machining
- Materials Handling
- Metals/Materials
- Power Tools
- Punching
- Roll Forming
- Safety
- Shop Management
- Stamping
- Testing and Measuring
- Tool and Die
- Tube and Pipe Fabrication
- Tube and Pipe Production
- Welding
- Article Search
- Industry Directory
- Publications
- Advertise
- Media Center
Tags
Articles tagged with "manufacturing"
Results: 81
 |
Hydroforming heats up: New techniques and equipment push industry forwardHydroforming was one of the fastest-growing metal forming technologies during the 1990s. Most of U.S. industry cooled down during and after the recession of 2001, but things have been heating up lately, and the world of hydroforming is no exception. The North American Hydroforming Conference and Exhibition (Sept. 29 – Oct. 1 in Dayton, Ohio), which was sponsored by the Tube & Pipe Association, International® (TPA), and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME), showcased new techniques, equipment, and applications that are moving the industry forward.
|
 |
Warm forming magnesium, aluminum tubes: A high-temperature process for lightweight alloys |
 |
Power-and-free conveyors provide critical path through the manufacturing courseThis article describes how power-and-free conveyors are used in manufacturing. It outlines new themes in conveyor design, systems design, control systems, and simulation software.
|
 |
Lifting the load: Applications for electric lift trucks in manufacturingManufacturers face relentless challenges in their efforts to meet changing demand. In their materials handling operation, these challenges include moving materials in tight spaces, providing just-in-time (JIT) delivery to production areas, and ensuring that lift trucks are available when and where they are needed. Maintaining production efficiency requires sturdy, dependable lift trucks that are maneuverable, easy to operate, and easy to maintain.
|
 |
Establishing an alloy verification process: SOPs help to prevent material mix-upsProduction or fabrication processes can include dozens of stages to convert raw materials into finished goods. Regardless of the raw material or the finished product, one factor is constant - - most metals look alike.
|
 |
Organización del herramental significa optimización del punzonado: Estos consejos mantendran a las punzonadoras de torreta funcionado eficientemente |
 |
A breath of fresh air: ArrayArray
|
 |
A breath of fresh air - Taking a look at in-plant filtration systems: Taking a look at in-plant filtration systemsThe article explains how to carry out a facility and process evaluation and discusses the basics of in-plant air filtration system selection.
|
 |
Huge possibilities, tiny tools Nanotechnology--the science of small--could change the metals industry in a very big wayNanotechnology is just beginning to blossom as a practical topic of interest for the manufacturing industry. Just how big an impact will nanomaterials have in our lifetimes? We're sure to find out soon.
|
 |
Building a better business model: Strategic planning basics for automotive stampers to improve profitJust what is a strategic business model, and how can it be developed and used by an automotive stamping supplier wanting to boost its bottom line?
|
 |
A different battlefield, the same strategy: How the OODA Loop applies to businessThe war in Iraq is giving the world a firsthand look at modern warfare and its latest weapons. Embedded reporters and military experts give us blow-by-blow details and explain strategies, logistics, aircraft, weapons, and other tools of war. While war coverage and weapons have evolved since previous wars, the basic strategies remain the same, and these same strategies have found acceptance in business.
|
 |
A growing force in Washington, D.C.: Agencies assist fabricators, manufacturers |
 |
Achieving quality global manufacturing networks: How best-in-class manufacturers overcome business challengesThis article is adapted from a report analyzing the results of a manufacturers' survey. It discusses the common quality challenges all manufacturers and explains what best-in-class manufacturers are doing with quaity control to set themselves apart from the competition.
|
|
Is Your Welding Lean?Want know how lean manufacturing principles relate to your welding operation? You have to look further than just what is happening in the welding cell.
|
 |
Merging research with manufacturing: Making technology grow through university-industry partnershipsTo thrive in competitive markets, manufacturers must innovate. Innovation often relies on research. However, most manufacturing firms lack the financial and human resources necessary to conduct research that leads to innovation.
|
|
Flat responsibility in sheet metal modeling: ArrayArray
|
 |
Top-down modeling: A reader's question presents an interesting challengeA reader has a question about modeling an assembly comprised of three plates and tubing. Columnist Gerald Davis provides guidance.
|
 |
The most important output of 3-D CAD modeling: Techniques to consider when modeling components in for a design projectThe most important output from a CAD system is the bill of material. Columnist Gerald Davis gives us an idea of just how much detail should go into creating a BOM.
|
 |
Love of loft in 3-D CAD modeling: Lofts are powerful tools for modeling shapes that transition between profilesLeaning to use the loft tool in 3-D CAD modeling takes some work, but it can come in handy in certain circumstances.
|
 |
Getting swept away in 3-D CAD modeling: Sweeps are powerful tools for modeling shapes that follow some sort of pathLike an extrude or revolve, a sweep is a tool for modeling a 3-D shape. A sweep consists of three basic elements--a profile, a path, and a set of rules for "sweeping" the profile along the path. A sweep can be a powerful tool when modeling 3-D shapes, according to columnist Gerald Davis.
|
 |
Modeling in a 3-D CAD system: How to decide whether to revolve or extrudeAlthough tough times are upon us, an economic downturn doesn't have to put all plans on hold. If you own a middle-market company (one that has a transaction price between $5 million and $250 million) and you are interested in selling it, a slumping economy is no reason to hesitate. In fact, putting your company on the market during a slowdown can have several benefits.
|
 |
Dimensioning in a 3-D CAD system: Dimensions transform the artistic inspiration into realityColumnist Gerald Davis explains that preparing a 3-D CAD model without dimensions may look great, but it doesn't really do anybody any good. For example, a 3-D CAD model with dimensions helps quality control inspectors.
|
 |
Sketching in a 3-D CAD System: Welcome to the foundation of 3-D modelingColumnist Gerald Davis describes different approaches to sketching in a 3-D environment.
|
 |
The real world of 3-D CAD assemblies: These files take a design one step closer to realityColumnist Gerald Davis describes the benefits of working with 3-D CAD assemblies.
|
 |
3-D CAD drawings in a 2-D world: Generating a great print is the goalColumnist Gerald Davis discusses the importance of delivering a clear illustration and how it can make an impact on the final fabricated product.
|
 |
Thinking inside the box: What does top-down design mean anyway?Columnist Gerald Davis delves into why top-down design might be useful when modeling a metal fabrication in 3-D CAD.
|
 |
3-D CAD strengthens customer bond: What goes into a successful 3-D CAD work center?Columnist Gerald Davis asks his fabricating readers if they know what it truly takes to keep up a fully functioning 3-D CAD software system.
|
 |
One easy piece to model: What to do while you wait for CAD trainingColumnist Gerald Davis believes it's a shame when a shop doesn't use its 3-D CAD software to its fullest potential. That's why he takes the reader through a modeling tutorial.
|
 |
Getting a handle on 3-D CAD modeling: Tricks to make the tool bend to your willColumnist Gerald Davis provides the reader with a brief overview of some of the handy 3-D CAD tools he uses when doing basic modeling techniques.
|
|
Unfolding truth about flats: Just how much does a CAD jockey need to know about flat layouts anyway?Columnist Gerald Davis reveals the usefulness of unfolding parts on the computer screen.
|
 |
Machined-part modeling in 3-D CAD: Sure, you can model it, but can you build it?Columnist Gerald Davis guides the reader through the 3-D design of a coupling that needs to be machined. He starts off with a bad example of how to do it and works his way toward a much better process.
|
 |
3D CAD modeling of sheet metal parts: Determining the design intent behind the part is a good place to startThe main variation in sheet metal modeling technique is when to let the 3D CAD system know that the part is to be treated as sheet metal. Columnist Gerald Davis walks us through three different ways to accomplish this.
|
 |
What CNC programmers wish you knew: A crash course in CNCState-of-the-art CNC programming systems speed the first stage of CNC programming by allowing the programmer to import CAD models to define the geometry of the part. That's just the first part, however. To really speed up the design phase, CAD programmers should keep several tips in mind.
|
 |
Essential CAD: A starting point: Basic realities of a virtual worldBefore a company purchases a CAD software package, the management team should start with a list of priorities that it expects the software to address. Of course, these priorities should be tailored to the company's mission. It's also important to keep in mind some of the basics of the virtual design world before the actual purchase takes place.
|
 |
Drawing the bead on weldments: A close look at top-down modeling using a specialized 3-D CAD modeling toolArray
|
 |
Bedeviled with the details: Balancing realistic detail with rational modeling disciplineColumnist Gerald Davis shows readers how to deliver just enough detail for visualization in a 3-D drawing, not for manufacturing.
|
|
Drafting useful drawings: t's all about delivering the information in a standard way to help with manufacturingArray
|
 |
3-D CAD design communication skills: Some ways to communicate design ideas to the non-CAD design reviewerArray
|
 |
Putting 3-D CAD on the grill: A case study in product developmentGerald Davis begins this year with a series of product development case studies, taking an idea and creating the virtual model of it.For this first installment, Davis designs a barbecue grill.
|
 |
Unfolding truth about flats - Just how much does a CAD jockey need to know about flat layouts anyway?Columnist Gerald Davis reveals the usefulness of unfolding parts on the computer screen.
|
 |
Putting 3-D CAD on the grill—Part III: The next less in top-down design: Modeling in the context of any assembly.Working on a design for a Shashlik Grill,columnist Gerald Davis provides guidance so that the designer ends up with a design that allows him to explore various changes to the size of the overall product while having the component parts stretch or shrink automatically
|
 |
Beating 'world' pricing: Nu-Way Industries finds the formula to take on competition from ChinaDuring the depths of the manufacturing slowdown that has cost the fabricated metal products sector nearly 300,000 jobs since 2000, Steven Southwell, president of Des Plaines, Ill.-based Nu-Way Industries Inc., faced a depressing challenge from one of his multinational OEM customers??either meet the ??total cost of acquisition? achieved in China or purchase the part from the Chinese supplier, inventory it, and incorporate it into the family of parts supplied by Nu-Way.
|
|
Unfolding truth about flats: Just how much does a CAD jockey need to know about flat layouts anyway?Columnist Gerald Davis reveals the usefulness of unfolding parts on the computer screen.
|
 |
Manufacturing in Mexico: Despite recession, maquiladoras still a strong driving forceThe recession in the U.S. was also felt by Mexico, the 2nd largest trading partner of the U.S. But, through the maquiladora program, which has been in effect for 37 years, the blow was softened.
|
|
Staying lean in a lean economySlow times call for some desperate measures, but losing sight of a lean approach to manufacturing should not be one of them. Take an opportunity that slow times present to evaluate your business and take appropriate steps towards a lean operation.
|
|
The Age of Cautious OptimismWhen it comes to the economy, cautious optimism is as good as it gets.
|
|
Fabricating precision parts for automobiles: Examples of Malaysian manufacturers stepping up to strong demandThe Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN) trade ministers have agree to move ahead with a closer economic partnership with Australia and New Zealand as an initiative amid the global economic slowdown. This article describes how some Malaysian companies are addressing productivity and cost issues.
|
|
Any good news in manufacturing? |
|
A 'bout' with the championRep. Don Manzullo speaks about taxes, steel tariffs, health care, and manufacturing's future.
|
|
Common barricades on the road to leanThe number of opportunities to steer your company wrong during a move toward lean manufacturing are myriad. Knowing a few of the common ones may help you achieve your goals without a lot of headaches.
|
|
Tips on Lean Manufacturing: How to purge weight from your manufacturing operationAll manufacturing operations need to reinvent themselves to compete in today's marketplace. What can you do to change? Try going lean.
|
|
Tips on Lean Manufacturing: Mastering the stop 'n' go of your shop's work flowMastering the flow of work through your shop is your most important taks if you are attempting Toyota's approach to lean manufacturing.
|
 |
Gaining control over the shop floor:: How software affects record-keeping and qualityThe big order is in—now what? After you've reviewed the capacity of your shop and the customer's schedule, help can come from shop floor control software, which gives a business control not only over the manufacturing operations but also the total flow of material into and out of the shop.
|
|
Overcoming the skilled labor shortageThe labor force of tomorrow needs to embrace manufacturing today if the industry is going to attract and keep the workers it needs in the future.
|
 |
Budget cuts hit welding hard: Extraordinary effort is critical to welding programs’ survival |
|
U.S. manufacturing – A look at the future work force and its needsWhen I entered the manufacturing work force more than 34 years ago, the work environment, work force, and the future of U.S. manufacturing looked a whole lot different.
|
|
Economy edges out other concernsThe fourth annual Fabricating Update subscriber survey revealed that anxiety about the U.S. economy outranks other metal manufacturing industry concerns, including steel prices, the No. 1 concern the previous three years. Beating steel prices by a nose was the skilled-labor shortage. Find out what metal manufacturers think of these and other concerns.
|
|
Recruit, train, and retain: The FABRICATOR's Editorial Advisory Board came together to share observations and discuss ways to attract workers to the world of manufacturing. |
 |
Auto industry demands shape the future of stampingAs the stamping industry heads into a new century, it continues to be driven primarily by the automotive industry.
|
|
Gaining from friction and formability data: Beating rising steel prices and offshore competitionAs steel prices rise and offshore competition increases daily, steel and overhead optimization are driving U.S. metal stamping and forming companies. Companies that survive and thrive are taking a different approach to managing change and cost and are discovering savings in areas never seriously considered before.
|
 |
Designing speed-friendly dies: How to run tooling at maximum speed with minimal breakageUsually the first place stampers look to reduce cost is the labor burden per part, which leads to the inevitable pursuit of producing parts faster. The speed capability of a stamping die is determined by how fast the part physically can be produced and at what speed the tooling fails. The strength of the carrier, how high the part must be lifted, and the mechanical limits of the springs and side action cams (mandrels) limit how fast the tool can run.
|
|
Design, build, troubleshoot: Three critical phases of die productionWhen a quality stamped product is needed, operating as a team, communication and a solid understanding of the plan is paramount in efficiently producing a stamping die. The three critical phases of producing a capable stamping die are design, build (manufacture) and troubleshooting. Each phase is intertwined and dependent on one another. A design review is an excellent opportunity to develop a plan and review the construction and manufacturing methods that are going to be used to make the components. Ultimately, the challenge is to have gained a profit for your company and produced a stamping die of superior quality.
|
 |
Diseñando dados amigables con la velocidad: Cómo operar el herramental a velocidad máxima con roturas mínimas |
 |
Automating your end forming operation: How to maximize efficiency in the shopEfficiency, productivity, and quality are focal points for end forming operations, and many manufacturers are looking to automation to improve those dimensions of their businesses.
|
 |
Making the connection: Substituting tube end forms for machined connectorsHundreds of types of machined end connectors are used to transmit fluid in fabricated tube and hose assemblies. In recent years manufacturers and end users of these connectors have been developing new methods and processes that eliminate machined connectors and the associated joining operation. Eliminating connectors and joining operations can help save both money and time.
|
|
Curving out a niche: Chicago fabricator helps McDonald's mark milestone, reaches one of its ownIn celebration of its 50th anniversary in April 2005, McDonald's® opened a 24,000-sq.-ft. restaurant in Chicago. The restaurant's most eye-catching feature is a pair of parabolic arches that stand 60 ft. high. Constructed from 20-in. by 12-in. tubes, the arches were curved by Chicago Metal Rolled Products, an OEM component subcontractor. Operating within a tight time frame, CMRP helped the structural steel fabricator and erector, Tefft Bridge & Iron LLC, by bending the tubes in multiple locations on longer sections to reduce the number of weld splices needed.
|
 |
Skelp edge preparation for manufacturing ERW pipePreparing the edge of a metal strip properly before it enters an electric resistance welding tube mill makes a huge difference in the quality of the final product. Make sure your prep methods match your quality requirements.
|
 |
Laser welding of stainless pressure tubesNot all laser welded tubes are created equal. Know what to look for in the final product to ensure that you're buying quality and not just an imposter.
|
|
Solving the mysteries of the fin pass—Part 1: Uncovering where, why and howThe fin pass was not the first time your father gave you five bucks for your allowance. The fin passes are those forming passes that immediately follow the breakdown or initial forming stages on a tube mill. Their role is paramount in the successful final presentation of the formed tubular section to the welding process.
|
 |
Ironworkers and contractors adapt to FCAW trendsWelders who want to become proficient in a technology whose time has come should look into getting certified for flux-cored arc welding.
|
 |
It's all about precision, craftsmanship: Shop makes commitment to solid welding practicesA case study looking at how Superior Joining Technologies Inc. got into the microwelding business, the welding equipment they use, how the meet customer requirements, and how they use a solid foundation in welding to keep up with today's stringent requirements.
|
|
Robotic arc welding gets smart in real time: Immediacy of information can benefit shop floorsWhether you're dealing with low part counts or wild welding variables or the challenges of just-in-time production, monitoring software can help smooth your operation.
|
 |
Selecting equipment for a robotic welding workcellSo you've decided to automate your welding process. Now it's time to select the equipment that performs the robotic welding. It's critical to take care choosing the appropriate equipment and an integration partner.
|
|
Mobilizing equipment-saving time and talentIt's hard to believe that machines such as press brakes and hardware setting equipment can move around on wheels or be moved by forklift and still function correctly. But I can tell you, from experience, that it is true and can be done.
|
 |
Laser cutting with less labor and less hassle: Machine automation and software help IMS keep the laser running and customers coming backCan a four-man job shop keep up with the demands of its manufacturing customers? IMS, Shakopee, Minn., will make you think about that and give you reason to question other practices going on in your job shop.
|
 |
Predicting the outcomes of laser thermal forming: How process simulation brought this technology to industry |
 |
Monitoring laser beam performance: How beam focusability helps evaluate beam quality onlineThis article discusses online laser beam monitoring and its alternatives, with emphasis on beam quality and focusability.
|
 |
Manufacturing more efficiently south of the border: Laser, punch/laser technology help Industrias John Deere cultivate just-in-timeManufacturing requires reliability and service, as John Deere Mexico found out when it researched an upgrade for manufacturing equipment. The company invested in a punch-laser combination machine and a press brake to help become a just-in-time manufacturer.
|
 |
Growing gains with lasers: Job shop uses data management to complement laser capabilitiesJeff Adams may have taken the nontraditional route in manufacturing by starting out in the laser equipment vendor community, but he has since moved to the job shop side of the industry, using his laser knowledge and expertise to help grow his 12-year-old laser job shop in Libertyville, Ill.
|
|
A breath of fresh air: ArrayArray
|
|
When does a punch/laser make sense?: 3 Questions a fabricator needs to askHawkeye Industries Inc., Tupelo, Miss., was getting more and more orders for parts that required both punching and laser cutting. To meet the growing demand, the company purchased a combination punch/laser machine. Some shops are more suited than others to this technolgy--combination machines can increase profits for some companies, and costs for others. Shop owners should keep five key things in mind when evaluating and purchasing a combination punch/laser machine.
|
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn