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2 weeks ago | 
metalformingmagazine.com | Lou Kren |Michael Bloss
Mazak Optonics
Booth A3502
Mazak’s 15,000-sq.-ft. booth features live demonstrations as well as new flat-sheet, tube-and-pipe, and automation laser technology, a testament to the company’s 100-plus years of experience in manufacturing machine-tool technology.
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2 weeks ago | 
metalformingmagazine.com | Lou Kren
“Manual pedestal welding is kind of a dying breed,” he continues, “mainly due to the ergonomics—lifting heavy parts, standing all day trying to move these parts and fixture them for welding. A cobot welding machine can do all of that while freeing up the technician to perform other productive duties.”Rapid ROIA cobot spot-welding machine is a long-time partner with potential quick payback, Hamilton explains.
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2 weeks ago | 
metalformingmagazine.com | Lou Kren
In many fabrication applications, cobots provide safety and ergonomic benefits while reportedly doubling or tripling productivity over traditional manual processes, and spot welding is no exception. The process also harnesses traditional cobot advantages such as portability and ease
of programming.
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2 weeks ago | 
metalformingmagazine.com | Eren Billur |Lou Kren
Die-cast aluminum has replaced some stamped and welded assemblies in high-end low-volume cars for many years—shock towers are one example. The switch to aluminum, which saves weight but comes with additional cost, typically provides a positive cost/kg saved. One example: Audi replaced 10 stamped components with one casting (Fig. 1) in the A6 front shock tower.
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2 weeks ago | 
metalformingmagazine.com | Michael Bloss |Brad Kuvin |Lou Kren
Also, recognize that not all production parts can be run unmanned. For 24/7 production, focus on parts that are known to cut well, to allow the automation to do its job. Save the difficult parts for when the machine can be attended. Lastly, consider implementing AMRs to provide productivity gains. For decades manufacturers have implemented automated guided vehicles to improve material-handling efficiency in larger factories.
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2 weeks ago | 
metalformingmagazine.com | Lou Kren
Targeting defense manufacturing, Phillips Corp. has become the first Meltio partner worldwide to integrate successfully the Meltio Engine Blue, which employs wire-fed directed-energy-deposition (DED) additive manufacturing (AM) technology, into a Haas CNC machine, Meltio and Phillips officials announced. This combination enables hybrid manufacturing, which combines additive and subtractive technologies into one streamlined workflow.
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3 weeks ago | 
metalformingmagazine.com | Brad Kuvin |Lou Kren
As manufacturers increasingly look to jump aboard the smart-manufacturing train, take note of a new Deloitte survey stressing that while smart manufacturing can deliver advantages to those who implement it, fabricators must proceed carefully, with foresight and caution.
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1 month ago | 
metalformingmagazine.com | Lou Kren
In manufacturing, optimizing floor space and reducing
machine-turnover time is crucial. When custom metal former Pennant Moldings recently
faced challenges in both areas at its Lebanon, TN, plant, due to an insufficient
die-storage strategy, it sought a new organizational approach that could
transform its operations for the long-term. The goal: organize its 55 dies scattered across the
production floor, and often stacked during idle periods.
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1 month ago | 
metalformingmagazine.com | Peter Ulintz |Lou Kren
Dayton Progress Europe, a supplier of punch and die components, has taken over European sales and technical support for the IEM, Lempco and Lamina brands from U.S.-based Dayton Lamina. The move provides European customers with direct access to the product lines.
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1 month ago | 
metalformingmagazine.com | Lou Kren |Justin Talianek
BLM Group USA has promoted Robert Adelman to head of product group. In his new role, Adelman will be responsible for leading the company’s team of product managers and business-development managers, with the aim of delivering product solutions to meet evolving customer needs.
Adelman joined BLM Group in 2015 and has held multiple positions focused on the company’s tube-laser offerings. For the last 6 yr., he held the position of North American laser product manager for the company.
