Monday, February 18, 2019
All News
MachineMetrics Raised $11.3 Million
January 26, 2019
With the funds, MachineMetrics will expand its data science and product development teams while accelerating global sales. MachineMetrics has raised $11.3 million in Series A financing. With the funds, the company will expand its data science and product development teams while accelerating global sales. MachineMetrics system is designed
Association Update: SPE Mold Technologies Division
January 26, 2019
The latest news from the Society of Plastics Engineers Mold Technologies Division, including available grant funds, ANTEC 2019 presentations and more. The Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE) Mold Technologies Division has set the schedule of its joint session with the SPE Injection Molding Division. Attendees at ANTEC 2019, which will be held March
GF Machining Adds to Team of Application Experts
January 26, 2019
GF Machining Solutions has expanded its team of experts with additions to its Applications Department. To ensure that manufacturers get the best possible manufacturing systems for their particular needs, GF Machining Solutions has expanded its team of experts with additions to its Applications Department. This expansion includes the transfer
Hoffmann Group Wins the German Design Award 2019
January 26, 2019
The Hoffmann Group has won the German Design Award. The Garant ToolCar roller cabinet from the GridLine series and the Garant magnet measuring stand won within the Workshop and Tools category. The Garant cross-cut saw with cross ground also received a Special Mention. All three products impressed the international jury with its
Steps for Properly Evaluating a Mold Release Product
January 26, 2019
Here are some essential steps to follow when selecting the right agent to help eliminate issues that slow down cycle time.Blog Post: 7/31/2018 Contributed by Michael Muth President, Slide Products Inc. Establishing a baseline for productivity and identifying the number of achievable cycles before mold release reapplication should be done before
Choosing the Right Beam Source for Your Laser-Welding Operation
January 26, 2019
Fiber laser technology is here, but is it the right solution for your operation?  Laser welding has truly impacted mold repair. In comparison to traditional welding methods, it provides less heat distortion, less deposited weld material and more precision. This results in fewer refinishing areas, which reduces downtime, improves mold
Specially Treated Grain in Bristles Offers Discs Durability
January 26, 2019
Boride Engineered Abrasives says that Dedeco Sunbursts are best for finishing and polishing hard-to-access areas without removing detail or causing flat spots. Product Post: 9/26/2018 Edited by Karen Cornelissen Managing Editor, MoldMaking Technology
Advancing Anode Assembly Fabrication
January 26, 2019
Surfacetec President Luis Gonzalez takes a look at the science of conforming anode assembly for chrome plating.Blog Post: 10/5/2018 Contributed by Luis Gonzalez President, Surfacetec Fabricating a conforming anode assembly is a necessary step when chrome plating injection and compression molds, but not all plating operations approach this step
Surface Finish Considerations for Better Molds
January 26, 2019
Mold material, tolerances, texture, mold release, flow, splay, hand finishing, machining and software impact surface finish decisions. Surface finish is one of the most important considerations when creating a mold. Key factors include mold material and customer-required tolerances. For example, silicon requires a mirror finish to work properly, as
Mold Release: Paintable, FDA-Compliant Powder
January 26, 2019
Originally titled 'MOLD RELEASE: Paintable, FDA-Compliant Powder ' New Dry-21 paintable PTFE powder mold release is a low-residue, spray-on release with FDA compliance for incidental food contact. Product Post: 11/27/2018 Staff Report New Dry-21 paintable PTFE powder mold release is a low-residue, spray-on release with FDA compliance for
Laser Marking Process Resists Shot Blasting
January 26, 2019
Laserax’s laser marking process has enabled die casters to identify parts right out of the die, according to the company. The process features tracking codes that resist post-process treatments, including shot blasting. Requirements by automotive manufacturers push die casters towards a traceability system from the extraction
Rethinking How to Polish
January 26, 2019
Internal process documentation helps polishers build upon experience and overcome surface finish challenges. Every shop wants to increase productivity, and polishing is often the bottleneck. Although companies understand the value of polishing, many are not willing to deal with polishing because they do not know how to do it properly. Polishing
CAMM Members Contribute Skills for Windsor Rotary Centennial
January 26, 2019
Members of the Canadian Association of Mold Makers (CAMM) recently participated in a civic project that required their metalworking skills on a more artful level than even mold making does. “Our Rotary Club is 100 years old this year,” Janet Kelly, Chair of the Rotary Club of Windsor (1918) Centennial Legacy Projects Committee, says.
Welding Pre-hardened 40 Rockwell Material
January 26, 2019
Key tips help ensure safe shop welding practices when using pre-hardened 40 Rockwell material.Blog Post: 8/2/2018 Contributed by Paul W. Britton Welding pre-hardened 40 Rockwell material requires certain conditions and considerations. Here are some tips for employing safe shop welding practices. Prior to making a welding repair, slowly heat the
2018 Technology Review and Sourcing Guide: Mold Materials
January 26, 2019
MoldMaking Technology’s annual Technology Review and Sourcing Guide is an accurate, comprehensive, easy-to-read and easy-to-use use guide for researching today’s technology, equipment, products and services. The year’s latest moldmaking product developments within mold engineering/design, build and
Mold Steel Composition Streamlines Moldmaking Process
January 26, 2019
A mold material’s performance characteristics, like uniform hardness and dimensional stability, enabled Dramco Tool Co. Inc. to build a compression mold faster and more economically. When Dramco Tool Co. Inc. (Grand Island, Nebraska) was tasked with building a compression mold for an aerospace customer that would run
Technical Specialist Helps Customers Choose Ideal Alloy
January 26, 2019
Technical representatives from Ellwood Specialty Steel are available to assist customers in choosing the most suitable aluminum or aluminum alloy for a given mold project. Product Post: 10/16/2018 Edited by Karen Cornelissen Managing Editor, MoldMaking Technology
Modified Remelting Process Improves Material Purity
January 26, 2019
Edro says that M333 Isoplast is produced using an optimized chemistry, a modified production process and the latest steel re-melting technology known as Pressure Electroslag Remelting (PESR). Product Post: 10/18/2018 Edited by Karen Cornelissen Managing Editor, MoldMaking Technology
Steel Resists Wear from Abrasive Resins, Extends Tool Life
January 26, 2019
DC53 is a fully hardenable mold steel from International Mold Steel that withstands wear from abrasive resins. Product Post: 11/13/2018 Edited by Karen Cornelissen Managing Editor, MoldMaking Technology International Mold Steel says that DC53 is a fully harnenable mold steel with good machinability, a wide range of applications
How to Avoid Tool Steel Corrosion
January 26, 2019
A mold builder should consider corrosion resistance, hardness, machinability, processing, polishability, operational environment and wear resistance during tool steel selection. One of the most important requirements for extending mold life is improved corrosion resistance. Stainless steel is common in plastic mold manufacturing because it is very
Washer Combines Spray and Ultrasonic Actions for Flexibility
January 26, 2019
Blackstone-NEY Ultrasonics introduces the new patent-pending Rotosonic, which cleans heavily soiled parts in a single machine, which could prevent users from having to purchase a spray cabinet and an ultrasonic machine separately. Product Post: 9/28/2018 Edited by Karen Cornelissen Managing Editor, MoldMaking Technology
Mold Release Is FDA Compliant for Incidental Food Contact
January 26, 2019
IMS Co. introduces its new Dry-21 Paintable PTFE Powder Mold Release, a low-residue release that is FDA-compliant for incidental food contact. Dry-21 brings the release ability of PTFE powder into an FDA-compliant formula under 21 CFR 177.1550 and 184.100. A general-purpose release, Dry-21 is applicable where the molded parts will be
Cleaning Unit's Dual Tank Offers Choices in Cleaning Methods
January 26, 2019
Omegasonics announces that Plural Additive Manufacturing, the exclusive North American distributor of industrial 3D printers manufactured by 3ntr, is offering Omegasonics 815BTX cleaning unit to those purchasing its 3D printers to assist with removing support material. The Omegasonics 815BTX is a dual-tank, bench-top ultrasonic
Complex Molds Require Advanced Maintenance Strategies
January 26, 2019
As molds become more complex in design and function, the demand for advanced training and equipment for mold maintenance increases. In recently published roundtable discussions about moldmaking trends and challenges, participants indicated that increasingly complex mold designs and functions have been central in driving industry advancements in
Suhner and Velocity Products Form Partnership
January 26, 2019
Suhner has teamed up with Velocity Products to maintain the SU-matic line at a consistent level of quality and functionality. Velocity/SU-matic has experienced staff who maintain tools at the high standard required by OEM clients. This collaboration between Suhner and Velocity Products ensures consistent tooling performance on
Welding Solutions Are More Efficient, Flexible and Affordable
January 26, 2019
As welding technologies advance, moldmakers have more options for repairing molds faster, cheaper and with minimal training required. Companies are putting much more emphasis on and investment into the equipment and skills required to keep molds running longer between preventive maintenance stops. This month, MoldMaking Technology turns its focus
Lifters Simplify Release of Small Undercuts in Molds
January 26, 2019
Cumsa USA offers new lifters from the Smart Worm family for the release of small undercuts. The company says that this new component is ideal for releasing small undercuts and that it comes in two versions. Cumsa offers the Smart Worm Pin (WP) or the simple version, which is capable of fitting small clips with short ejection
Latch Function on Stamp Prevents Movement on Arrow Inserts
January 26, 2019
Meusburger says that its stamps have a latch function that fixes the arrow insert into defined positions and guarantees that the arrow remains in a fixed position. Product Post: 9/24/2018 Edited by Karen Cornelissen Managing Editor, MoldMaking Technology
Webinar: Standard Components – Options that Simplify Mold Designs, Reduce Costs and Speed Mold
January 26, 2019
October 23 webinar will discuss new options and advantages of using standardized components.Blog Post: 10/17/2018 Brenda Clark Engineering Manager, Hasco America Inc. The use of standard components by moldmakers is increasing, and suppliers are investing time and resources into further advancing these components. For example, Hasco
CAM Software Accelerates Complete Machining
January 26, 2019
Standard parts supplier and moldmaker Knarr Group (Helmbrechts, Germany) leverages Open Mind's CAM software to maximize productivity. Knarr Group (Knarr) is a full-range provider for the tool and moldmaking industry and offers all standard parts ranging from ejector technology, guides and tempering elements through to quality products
New Mini Mold Components
January 26, 2019
At Fakuma, Meusburger went “small” with its two newest standard mold components. E 3310 TT-Slide unit is said to be the “smallest ready-to-use slide unit on the market.” The E 7048 “build-in” cylinder with flange is said to be suited to the smallest installation spaces. Previous Next Meusburger (U.S. office
Coupler Lends Easy, Reliable Solution to Quick Mold Change
January 26, 2019
A coupler helps provide a faster, more reliable way to tie positive return ejection into a mold. Jeremy Fennelly was an intern at the University of Massachusetts Lowell back in 1992 when he answered an ad on the recruiting wall from Rubbermaid looking for engineers to work on a six-month system-integration project to help the company cut costs. The
New Block Cylinder Line Offers Multiple Sizes and Mounting Styles
January 26, 2019
Cumsa expands its product offerings with its own line of block cylinders in multiple sizes and mounting styles.  Cumsa USA expands its product offerings with its own line of block cylinders in multiple sizes and mounting styles. The company added the hydraulic cylinders after its new production plant opened in May 2018. Cumsa
Manufacturer of Precision Micro Parts to Debut in North America
January 26, 2019
Micro component supplier Tavadec S.A. will formally launch in North America at IMTS 2018 through an exclusive partnership with IndustryControlling, which is intended to enhance customer proximity and leverage growth in the region. Historically a supplier of Swiss watchmaking components,
2018 Technology Review and Sourcing Guide: Machining
January 26, 2019
MoldMaking Technology’s annual Technology Review and Sourcing Guide is an accurate, comprehensive, easy-to-read and easy-to-use use guide for researching today’s technology, equipment, products and services. The year’s latest moldmaking product developments within mold engineering/design, build and
Micromachining is About Precision
January 26, 2019
When the subject of micromachining comes up, people often think immediately of tiny parts. But it’s really more about the technology that allows the production of these parts, and that technology can be applied to features on parts of any size. Micromachining requires a certain level of precision that isn’t easily attainable; the right
4 Takeaways for Shops New to Micromachining
January 26, 2019
By taking the plunge into micromachining, one Minnesota micro molding and machining shop now specializes in the design and production of parts 0.015 inch and smaller. Here is that story and the lessons learned in the process. When Jon Baklund reflects on micromachining, his words demonstrate something almost like awe: “It’s like
Jet Coolant Nut Directs Fluid to Cutting Edge in Micromachining
January 26, 2019
Big Kaiser’s Mega micro coolant nut is said to provide precise coolant supply to micro cutting tools applications at high speeds when using the Mega micro chuck 6S.Product Post: 12/21/2018 Edited by Katelyn Arnold Editorial Intern, Modern Machine Shop
High-End Watchmaker Eliminates Offshoring with Five-Axis Machining Center
January 26, 2019
Instead of shipping small components from overseas, a watchmaker was able to accommodate increased demand by purchasing a used five-axis machining center. Blog Post: 1/24/2019 Edited by Jedd Cole Associate Editor, Modern Machine Shop Sydney, Australia, might not come first to mind when thinking of places known for high-quality timepieces.
CNC Black Friday Deals
January 26, 2019
During this Black Friday sales week, CNCMachines.net is making sure that machine shop owners and smaller manufacturers benefit as well. CNCMachines.net is offering deeper discounts to owners who want to sell their current CNC machine. During this Black Friday sales week, CNCMachines.net is making sure that machine
CAMplete Partners with Doosan Machine Tools
January 26, 2019
CAMplete TruePath is available for purchase on all Doosan Machine Tools Milling Machines. CAMplete TruePath is available for purchase for all Doosan Machine Tools milling machines. CAMplete Solutions Inc. and Doosan Machine Tools have joined forces to offer CAMplete TruePath to new and existing customers. Doosan Machine Tools
Tooling Tech Releases Video on Segen Tooling System
January 26, 2019
The Tooling Tech Group released an animated video focused on its Segen quick change system. The video highlights how the Segen cylinder locks and knobs replace traditional nuts and bolts in industrial setups, workholding, clamping, fixturing and alignment applications. The Tooling Tech Group (TTG) released an animated video
For This Mold Shop, the Key to Closing the Skills Gap is Emotional Intelligence
January 26, 2019
Emotional intelligence is only the foundation. The training and practice in emotional intelligence is actually just one system that lays the groundwork for another system. “Westminster Academy” is the shop’s mechanism for defining and imparting skills necessary for the work of a machinist, CNC programmer, quality technician,
Heidenhain TNC Controls Streamline Mold Manufacturing and Global Connectivity
January 26, 2019
Five-axis machines with the right controls are a key part of a connected system that yields better, faster work. Krones Inc. in Franklin, Wisconsin, is a subsidiary of a company based in Germany that routinely manufactures redundant parts in its plants throughout the world. Krones recently developed a way to streamline this process and provide
Video: Emotional Intelligence in Action at Westminster Tool
January 26, 2019
A companion to the recent Modern Machine Shop cover story on a moldmaker’s commitment to emotional intelligence, here is a look at the culture change at this shop through the words and perspectives of team members. Blog Post: 1/3/2019 Peter Zelinski Editor-in-Chief, Modern Machine Shop Westminster Tool used to have a skilled labor problem,
Strategic Shifts Enable Growth for Fairway Injection Molds
January 26, 2019
Since its 2017 acquisition by Westfall Technik Inc., Fairway Injection Molds has been making many strategic changes to its infrastructure in preparation for growth. A year ago, Westfall Technik Inc. (Westfall) acquired Fairway Injection Molds Inc. (Fairway), which originally was a family-owned business. How has this changed the way that
30 Under 30 Class of 2018: Designers
January 26, 2019
MoldMaking Technology recognizes the industry's young talent through its inaugural 30 Under 30 Honors Program. Today's blog features those among them who are designers. Moldmaking may be known as a one-off industry, but that is not an accurate description of the current employment landscape across many mold shops. Those who are under
Establishing a Production Startup in Mexico
January 26, 2019
In 2014, German moldmaker Siebenwurst established a subsidiary company in Querétaro, Mexico. It not only provides support to other German companies in the region but also uses its extensive machine park to produce new molds for a growing customer base. Mexico is a rapidly growing location for manufacturing in North America. According to
Ten Tips for Effective Design-for-Manufacturing Analysis
January 26, 2019
MoldMaking Technology editorial advisory board member Andrew Garstkiewicz of GE Appliances, a Haier Co., offers sage advice on DFM analysis. MMT editorial advisory board member Andrew Garstkiewicz of GE Appliances, a Haier Co., offers sage advice on design-for-manufacturing (DFM) analysis. Laser scanning, 3D printing, holographic
What to Check in a Mold-Design Review
January 26, 2019
Originally titled 'Mold Design Checklist' MoldMaking Technology editorial advisory board member Gerardo (Jerry) Miranda III, global tooling manager for Oakley sunglasses, shares critical steps from his own mold design checklist. Gerardo (Jerry) Miranda III, global tooling manager for Oakley sunglasses. A mold design can be like