While EDMs offer the benefits of holding tight tolerances, working on nearly any metal, and being well suited for delicate or fragile parts, knowledgeable operators for the machines are increasingly hard to find and robots can’t always fill the gap. Automated processes in the machines, newer designs and features of Industry 4.0 are helping to solve the problem.
Manufacturers face a difficult task juggling the current “innovation agenda.” Today, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), robotic automation and artificial intelligence (AI) are all poised to be the next big thing.
Adam Hansel, chief systems and sales officer, DMG Mori (Hoffman Estates, IL) sums it up perfectly: “Go into any shop. Ask them if they want to automate. The answer is yes. 100%.”
Simulation tools are making it much easier for manufacturers to optimize their processes, visualizing the entire path of production from NC metalcutting simulations through 3D design and factory-floor imaging.
This week’s Automate trade show in Detroit demonstrated the drive for flexibility on the factory floor.
Even for those well on the automation path, there can be stumbling blocks to overcome or additional areas to be automated. A new, objective view from a different source could provide a satisfying solution.
There’s a type, geometry and coating for virtually any application or material.
The range and requirements of flexible machining cells are increasing.
Where and why has the sharing of information fallen through the cracks?
The best way to solve the skills gap is to ignite the already existing and yet dormant fuel of curiosity inside of young minds.
