Column
Filter by Process Zone:
Plasma Cutting Tips for Small Welding Shops
Light industrial CNC plasma cutting options now make it possible for small home-based businesses and hobbyists to complete amazing jobs that were almost impossible a decade ago. These new plasma cutting systems can provide great performance at even better prices, but make sure they fit your needs before getting started so that you aren’t disappointed.
Laying Groundwork for Great Laser Cutting: Start with the Slats
Though it is often overlooked by equipment users, one of the most critical factors to consistent laser cutting quality is the proper maintenance of the worktable where the cutting process takes place.
Modernizing the Standard for Balancing Tools and Tool Systems
Did you realize that the G2.5 balance specification in ISO 1940-1 is no longer practical, technically possible or economically feasible in today’s advanced manufacturing environment? Here’s the good news: A new standard is now being developed that applies to all of today’s relevant variables for safe and productive machining. Say hello to ISO 16084.
The Revolution of Ceramic-Based Heat Shield Coatings
Though traditional coatings help prevent spatter and slag buildup that plagues welding, laser cutting and plasma cutting operations, they must be re-applied frequently, which adds to labor costs. To significantly reduce the cost impact of slag and spatter buildup, engineered ceramic coating technology is now the way to go.
Small Steps, Big Savings: Filler Metal Storage & Handling
Here are some insights into proper storage and handling of stick electrodes, solid wires and tubular wires (flux-cored and metal-cored) that can help you achieve the best welding performance, minimize downtime and reduce operating costs.
Metal Fabrication: The State of the Industry
Shop owners and decision makers are feeling more comfortable with the economic climate and are more willing to make capital investments in new machinery that adds capacity to their operations. Here are some insights into the equipment they will need.
Proven Ways to Lose Your Next Sale (and How to Avoid It)
Here are some of the danger signals to recognize that can help you avoid unnecessary losses.
One More Thing That is Certain
For shops that still do business in the same old slow ways, death and taxes are certain. But one other thing is absolutely certain for those who want to stay competitive and profitable.
To Improve the Bottom Line, Disrupt the Norm
It’s the classic risk/return trade-off: Changing to new welding processes or procedures can be difficult, but the shop that is willing to accept some level of risk can increase their profitability and gain a competitive edge through reduced costs, better quality, improved productivity and shortened project timelines.
Productive Meets Safe: Equipment Enhancements that Help Prevent Press Brake Injuries
Unless they are fully automated, production on CNC press brakes cannot occur without an operator’s hands being constantly in near proximity to a potential danger zone. For this reason, increasing efforts are being directed toward fail-safe measures on these machines. Here are some of the latest improvements that have been developed by press brake manufacturers to reduce the likelihood of accidental injuries.
How to Bridge the Gap Between Design and Production
Keeping pace with modern manufacturing demands often means bridging the gap between design and production. While challenging at times, it doesn’t necessarily require capital investment. Creative and resourceful applications of tooling and accessories, such as angle heads, can get complex parts out the door without design edits snowballing to the point of loss
Getting the Most from Your Clean Air Budget: Five Tips for Small Shops
Get past the initial equipment and installation costs and start thinking about total cost of ownership over time, including direct operating costs such as energy use, filters and maintenance, and indirect costs such as equipment downtime. Here are five ways a small shop can maximize their clean air budget and get more out of their equipment in the long run.
