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  Designed to deliver the best precision time-saving in an easy-to-use way, Mastercam can help you make the most of your shop. Find out why shops around the globe continue to make Mastercam the world's most widely-used CAD/CAM software. |
Seven regional champions — Craig W. Hargrave, Rachael Lockett, James Moody, Andrew Sears, Lucas Starch, Michael Villegas, and Brendan Wimer — from around the United States converged in Cleveland in late April to participate in the 36th annual NTMA/NIMS National Apprentice Competition. Read Full Story
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Andrew Sears is this year's National Champion in the Apprentice Competition. More importantly, Sears and Starch and the five other regional champions represent the future of machining. Each one of them is a winner, and each is to be congratulated not only for reaching the national competition, but for attaining the high level of knowledge they have about their craft that got them there. Read Full Story
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In a competitive global busines environment, successful manufacturing managers have embraced lean strategies to keep their production humming and to sustain profits. But it is problematic when managers attempt to apply an ad hoc lean strategy to factory maintenance. Unfortunately, a lack of strategic planning in many plants today causes assets to deteriorate. Read Full Story
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In a slowing economy, every machine shop has to keep a vigilant eye on the books to keep the business strong. Some may look to sales figures, profits, or the number of repeat customers for assurance that all is well. But, while these are all important factors, it's impossible to know where the business really stands without a clear understanding of a shop's cash flow situation. Read Full Story
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Annual United States machine tool consumption currently amounts to only 40 percent of China's.
A mere eight years ago we installed twice the volume of China. But, as I have recounted in earlier columns, that superiority was gone within two years. By 2002, China and the United States consumed an equal amount. Within another two years, China's consumption had doubled ours, and two years later they had consumed triple the number that we did. Read Full Story
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I use two halves of a nut to install or remove studs. I saw the nut with threads that match those of the stud’s in half from point-to-point. Then I place the halves around the stud and grip them with vise grips to get a good hold on the stud. Read Full Story
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 Earth-Chain-- Lifting Magnets
EZ-LIFT lifting magnets are available from Earth-Chain, Indianapolis, IN. They are rated to lift up to 6,600 lbs. They are made from powerful "rare earth" neodymium iron boron magnets, so they don't need electricity. They have a built in 3.5 X safety factor. Click Here
 Techniks-- ER Holders For Tight Clearance
Clearance problems are "no problem" for ER mini-nut holders from Techniks. Nut diameters range from .63" to 1.02" (16mm - 28mm) ER11, ER16, and ER20 sizes are available for CAT40, CAT50, BT30, and BT40 spindles. Techniks is a manufacturer of tool holders and accessories, headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Click Here
 Earth-Chain-- Magnetic Workholding
EEPM magnetic chucks from Earth-Chain drastically reduce set-up time. They are used for drilling, milling, and boring operations on thin or thick workpieces. Holding power is over 100MT/Sqm. 26 sizes to choose from. Easily integrates with pallet changing and tombstone systems. Call (877)354-3837. Click Here
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5 Key Strategies For Reduced Costs and Profitability
Striving to reduce costs and increase profitability while remaining competitive is no easy task.
Epicor Manufacturing talks about ways to plan, schedule, execute and monitor your manufacturing operations - from raw materials to final product - to develop your highest level of flexibility and agility, and to make your operations more competitive. Click Here To Register
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The only event that focuses on the business side of running a machine shop. Join owners and top managers to explore strategies and improve your business. Register now and save at: Click Here
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American Machinist Announces Launch Of Machine Tool Theater
American Machinist is pleased to announce the beta launch of Machine Tool Theater at www.machinetooltheater.com. Visit Machine Tool Theater; watch videos about machining and machining equipment. You'll see faster, more precise machines; cutting tools to process virtually any material; finishing technologies; automation systems; quality instruments and manufacturing software. You'll see how to reduce cycle times and increase productivity.Click Here
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Practical Machinist Metalworking Forum
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Join in! Visit Practical Machinist, the leading online discussion forum for the metalworking community.
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"Can't be any more dangerous than these rides that are falling apart at carnivals." Read Full Story
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Now you can get the latest edition of American Machinist delivered directly to your PC. Digital editions allow you to page through articles, click through hotlinks for direct advertiser websites, send emails to authors and other contacts, zoom, print or send to a friend. www.americanmachinist.com
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Technologies
