So, You Want to Implement MTConnect? May 1, 2015 Shops today must track or measure their manufacturing operations to improve them. This need drives the growing use of MTConnect—an open, royalty-free protocol for extracting data from practically any piece of equipment, including machine tools and other manufacturing systems. The integration of MTConnect is a major undertaking, and can be a bit challenging unless certain preparations are made ahead of time.
Machining with Robots November 1, 2009 Robotic machining technology has advanced to where it poses a serious alternative to metalcutting applications on more traditional machining centers. With the latest robotics equipment and related software, automation suppliers and robotic system integrators are gaining some traction using robots in many material-removal applications previously done only with machine tools.
When Clamps Aren’t the Answer August 1, 2008 Workholding techniques using a magnetic field, a vacuum, or an adhesive can be effective alternatives to clamps. When these techniques are used, more part area is available for the cutting tools, thin parts can be held, and initial setup can be fast and simple. Plus, there is a potential for smoother surfaces and a shorter overall production cycle.
Machine Components/Cleaning/Environment/Fluid Power and Other Manufacturing Equipment August 1, 2004 Keeping products clean is becoming a more significant part of manufacturing as standards for cleanliness, deburring, and finish grow more stringent.
Bar Feeders Boost Turning Productivity March 1, 2004 One of the most cost-effective ways to obtain the benefits of automation is by adding a bar feeder to a CNC lathe or other bar machine. Costing anywhere from about $10,000 to $40,000 depending on configuration, the devices can add hours of untended operating time for part volumes of a few hundred to tens of thousands.
Diving Into Metrology October 26, 2021 Lights-out metrology for inspection is a natural entry point into automation as it is less disruptive to implement than other manufacturing operations.
Riester uses smart conveying to design versatile machine October 7, 2021 An intelligent and highly flexible transport system enables a wide variety of production steps to be flexibly combined in a modular, powerful and versatile machine for the assembly of automotive fuel lines.
Experts knock down AI barriers September 30, 2021 Why don’t more manufacturers in the United States use smart manufacturing technologies like AI and machine learning to reduce waste, achieve predictive maintenance and enhance their automation systems? Five CESMII roundtable panelists share their insights.
Optimized Press Hardening Lines Increase Productivity September 24, 2021 AP&T provides a case study of the work it did at a plant in Italy of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (now Stellantis).
Robots Grab New Capabilities August 18, 2021 As cobots work their way into machine shops, users are finding many new jobs for them.
