Burrs, sharp edges, and rough surfaces plague even the most precise metal-cutting or forming process. Deburring and finishing can often be treated as the step-child of a manufacturing process, but its importance is growing as tolerances get tighter and precision devices become the norm.
Modern manufacturing is rapidly adopting model-based definition (MBD). When employing an MBD strategy, the CAD model becomes more than the nominal to which all parts are measured and inspected against. MBD keeps the all-important digital thread intact—from design to manufacturing to inspection and quality reporting.
Until the middle of 2010, first-tier subcontract machinist, JJ Churchill, could produce turbine blades only if they had their fir-tree root-forms preground elsewhere, or if they were subsequently added by another subcontractor. No longer is this the case.
Why use a metrology device on or near a machine tool? It isn’t just useful for making sure a tool is present or monitoring tools for wear or breakage. On-machine measurement technologies can save time and money, by speeding up processes and eliminating extra personnel, and they are a critical step in the movement towards “lights-out” manufacturing.
The challenges to manufacturing as it evolves into the 21st century are now familiar, and impact how metrology must contribute. Manufacturers face uncertain production volumes with roller-coaster demand, shorter production runs and faster product development cycles. Automation, while alluring as a way to reduce cost, needs to adjust.
Case Study: Cobots help better serve customers and improve environment for workforce
Middleton, Wis.-based ACI is joining Dwyer Instruments, Omega Engineering and Universal Flow Monitors under the DwyerOmega brand.
Learn from industry experts about the latest breakthroughs, challenges, and the limitless potential of AM. Get ready to witness a revolution in how we design and produce vital components for the industry.
ANCA celebrates 50 years of technological innovation. With private ownership at its core, ANCA remains at the forefront of the tool industry, poised for a future of transformative advancements under the leadership of general manager Edmund Boland.
Machina Labs unveils the game-changing Machina Deployable System, a portable robotic marvel combining AI and advanced robotics for digital part formation and cutting, set to revolutionize manufacturing at FABTECH 2023.