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Machine Tools See All

17 Dec 2024
Upgrading Bar Feeder Components with Metal 3D Printing
Index is exploring redesigning and optimizing parts for bar feeders inside its multi-spindle turning centers using a low-cost metal 3D printing platform from One Click Metal.

3 Dec 2024
A Contract CNC Shop in Transition
Denver Precision Products is in a transitional mode in two respects: company leadership and adoption of new multifunction machining technology and processes.

29 Nov 2024
Precision Machining Technology Review: November 2024
Production Machining’s November 2024 technology showcase includes some of the latest technology from Vericut, Hurco, the L.S. Starrett Co., LNS North America, Fryer Machine Systems and MachineMetrics.

5 Nov 2024
Nomura DS Showcases Turning and Milling Machines Engineered with Excellence
Gosiger offers the comprehensive line of Nomura DS machine tools at competitive prices.

4 Nov 2024
An Automated Answer for Machining Ball Pins
This new vertical turning center with measurement and robotic automation processes is able to produce vehicle ball joint ball pins in 7 seconds.

7 Oct 2024
Automation Breakthroughs Revolutionize Precision Machining for Complex Parts
Marubeni Citizen-Cincom delivers custom solutions to address some of the biggest challenges in precision machining from handling small parts, to robot integration and unique tooling needs.
Tooling See All

25 Oct 2024
Precision Machining Technology Review: October 2024
Production Machining’s October 2024 technology showcase includes some of the latest technology from Ceratizit, Kennametal, Mate Precision Techologies, Horn and Mazak.

17 Oct 2024
A Tooling Workshop That Was Worth a Visit
Marubeni Citizen-Cincom’s tooling and accessory workshop at IMTS 2024 offered a chance to learn more about ancillary devices that can boost machining efficiency and capability.

7 Oct 2024
Automation Breakthroughs Revolutionize Precision Machining for Complex Parts
Marubeni Citizen-Cincom delivers custom solutions to address some of the biggest challenges in precision machining from handling small parts, to robot integration and unique tooling needs.

3 Oct 2024
Tooling Company Continues to Expand Offerings
Now representing six brands in North America, Platinum Tooling offers tooling and related accessories for a range of machine tool types, including CNC mills, lathes and Swiss-types.

27 Sep 2024
Precision Machining Technology Review: September 2024
Production Machining’s September 2024 technology showcase includes some of the latest technology from Expand Machinery, Paperless Parts, Monaghan Tooling Group, Walter USA and more.

12 Sep 2024
Calculate the Value of Thread Rolling for Yourself
Recent testing has shown that thread rolling can be more economical than thread cutting when producing 4,000 parts or more. A newly created calculator can help you to determine which might be the better option for your threading applications.
Software See All

12 Dec 2024
Making Machining Research More Efficient
Piezoelectric dynamometer technology combined with a new software app is enabling Chalmers University of Technology to advance its grinding and machining research.

29 Nov 2024
Precision Machining Technology Review: November 2024
Production Machining’s November 2024 technology showcase includes some of the latest technology from Vericut, Hurco, the L.S. Starrett Co., LNS North America, Fryer Machine Systems and MachineMetrics.

8 Oct 2024
ModuleWorks, Toolpath Sign Technology Partnership for Accelerated Software Performance
ModuleWorks and Toolpath announce a technology partnership that intends to utilize intelligent cloud-based manufacturing solutions for machining estimation and CAM automation.

1 Oct 2024
Hack-Proof Your Shop: Production Machining’s 6 Must-Read Cybersecurity Articles
October is cybersecurity awareness month and Production Machining wants to help you make your shop hack-proof.

27 Sep 2024
Precision Machining Technology Review: September 2024
Production Machining’s September 2024 technology showcase includes some of the latest technology from Expand Machinery, Paperless Parts, Monaghan Tooling Group, Walter USA and more.

24 Sep 2024
CAM Software’s Place Serving Emerging Trends
SolidCAM aims to align its product development and customer engagement strategies to address the evolving needs and challenges of the manufacturing industry.
Measurement See All

29 Nov 2024
Precision Machining Technology Review: November 2024
Production Machining’s November 2024 technology showcase includes some of the latest technology from Vericut, Hurco, the L.S. Starrett Co., LNS North America, Fryer Machine Systems and MachineMetrics.

22 Oct 2024
Seeing Automated Workpiece Measurement in Real Time
User-friendly inspection software for CNC machining centers was shown at IMTS 2024 monitoring measurements between and after machining while performing SPC based on recorded measurement values.

11 Oct 2024
MSI Viking Expands Metrology Partnership With Mahr
The expanded partnership now includes advanced production metrology systems, covering contour, roughness and form instruments, as well as advanced optical metrology systems.

6 May 2024
Verisurf Sign Solutions Agreement With Hexagon
Verisurf will offer complete metrology solutions that combine its model-based inspection and measurement software, training and live technical support with Hexagon CMMs.

12 Apr 2024
Zeiss Holds Digital Measurement, Metrology Event
Zeiss Quality Innovation Days brings together quality and metrology experts from all over the world to take part in industry-specific sessions.

11 Mar 2024
The Value of CMM Controller Retrofits
In this case, new controllers for two coordinate measuring machines — one 26 years old — with new programming software offers the possibility to enable multisensor inspection of critical, turned aerospace components.
Automation See All

2 Dec 2024
Automate Coolant Management, Collect Data to Optimize Machining Operations
The future of coolant management lies in better control through automation and applying real-time data analysis and insights.

29 Nov 2024
Precision Machining Technology Review: November 2024
Production Machining’s November 2024 technology showcase includes some of the latest technology from Vericut, Hurco, the L.S. Starrett Co., LNS North America, Fryer Machine Systems and MachineMetrics.

4 Nov 2024
An Automated Answer for Machining Ball Pins
This new vertical turning center with measurement and robotic automation processes is able to produce vehicle ball joint ball pins in 7 seconds.

25 Oct 2024
Precision Machining Technology Review: October 2024
Production Machining’s October 2024 technology showcase includes some of the latest technology from Ceratizit, Kennametal, Mate Precision Techologies, Horn and Mazak.

17 Oct 2024
ABB Robotics Sponsors MassRobotics to Accelerate Automation Innovation
By equipping MassRobotics with its advanced cobots, ABB aims to facilitate the creation of new and impactful solutions that address real-world challenges across various industries.

11 Oct 2024
Predicting the ROI of Robotic Automation
Various methodologies paired with online tools can help small to mid-sized manufacturers determine how to predict and calculate the potential economic benefits of robotic equipment for their specific needs.
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Videos See All

5 Nov 2024 Turn-Mills
Nomura DS Showcases Turning and Milling Machines Engineered with Excellence
Gosiger offers the comprehensive line of Nomura DS machine tools at competitive prices.

7 Oct 2024 Swiss-Types
Automation Breakthroughs Revolutionize Precision Machining for Complex Parts
Marubeni Citizen-Cincom delivers custom solutions to address some of the biggest challenges in precision machining from handling small parts, to robot integration and unique tooling needs.

9 Aug 2024 Automation
Automate 2024 Recap: Software Accelerates Robotics
One of the biggest themes at Automate 2024 was the use of software to make robots easier to use and more efficient.

15 Jul 2024 Automation
Custom Automation for a Multi-Spindle Turning Center
Machine tools capable of performing multiple functions and machining parts to completion are becoming the standard rather than the exception. Incorporating automation into these systems allows for extended periods of operation without the need for operator intervention.

28 Jun 2024
Precision Machining Technology Review: June 2024
Production Machining’s June 2024 technology showcase includes some of the latest technology from Siemens, Ceratizit, Walter, Kennametal and more.

17 Jun 2024 Automation
Simulated Complete Machining of EV Aluminum Inverter Cases
At EMO 2023 in Hannover, Germany, FANUC presented an automated manufacturing cell simulating the complete production and measurement of aluminum electric vehicle (EV) inverter cases.

17 Dec 2024 Single & Multi-Spindles
Upgrading Bar Feeder Components with Metal 3D Printing
News & Products See All

16 Dec 2024 Workholding
SMW Autoblok Workholding System Streamlines Changeovers
The TMS-2G system enables the operator to change the chuck in minutes accurately and securely, making it versatile for diverse metalworking requirements.

13 Dec 2024 Cutting Tools
Horn Grooving Tool Provides Process Reliability
The Mini 114 system is suitable for turning and copy turning of axial grooves.

12 Dec 2024 Cutting Tools
Tungaloy Boring Toolholder Features Advanced Chip Evacuation
The TungBoreMini series includes an optimized chipbreaker and an advanced internal coolant supply system, which features two dedicated outlets for effective cooling and chip evacuation.

10 Dec 2024 CAD/CAM
Hexagon AI-Powered CAM Software Streamlines Part Programming
The ProPlanAI CAM programming tool is designed to help machine shops achieve operational excellence at scale.

10 Dec 2024
Caron Engineering Appoints New Members to Executive Team
Caron Engineering Inc.’s new C-suite leadership team will enhance operations and technological innovation.

9 Dec 2024 Medical
Kennametal Turning Tools Enhance Small Part, Medical Machining
TopSwiss Micro Boring Solid tooling and KCU25B turning inserts are well suited for the small parts and medical machining space.

19 Dec 2024
Renishaw Announces Passing of Co-Founder, Sir David McMurtry
Tech Briefs See All

9 Dec 2024
Mass Finishing, Shot Blasting for Military and Defense Applications
Recognized for their ability to clean, deburr and refine surfaces, these processes are key to effective military-grade part manufacturing.

4 Nov 2024
An Automated Answer for Machining Ball Pins
This new vertical turning center with measurement and robotic automation processes is able to produce vehicle ball joint ball pins in 7 seconds.

11 Oct 2024
Predicting the ROI of Robotic Automation
Various methodologies paired with online tools can help small to mid-sized manufacturers determine how to predict and calculate the potential economic benefits of robotic equipment for their specific needs.

12 Sep 2024
Calculate the Value of Thread Rolling for Yourself
Recent testing has shown that thread rolling can be more economical than thread cutting when producing 4,000 parts or more. A newly created calculator can help you to determine which might be the better option for your threading applications.

10 Sep 2024
Carbon Fiber Spindles Aim to Eliminate Grinding Variance
These spindles available on Tschudin CNC centerless grinders are designed to minimize the heat transfer factor while optimizing dimensional stability and material removal rate.

6 Sep 2024
Sustainability Analysis Tool Aids Data-Driven Decision-Making
Can increasing productivity and reducing carbon emissions go hand-in-hand? For its high-volume machining customers, Sandvik Coromant offers a tool for data collection and comparison to aid sustainability-minded process decisions.

24 Dec 2024 Medical
Photochemical Etching Explained
Parts Cleaning See All

10 May 2024
Industrial Cleaning Shop Zeros In on Precision
This parts cleaning company is elevating its efforts to become a technical cleanliness expert, which presents an exciting, yet sometimes arduous, journey. The ongoing education of the team as well as significant investments in equipment and processes attribute to this shop’s success.

11 Mar 2024
Kyzen Solvents Provide Safe Parts Cleaning
The SLV901 and SLV803 solvents are formulated to maintain cleaning efficacy while providing a safe, environmentally friendly alternative to processes that use PFAS and HFCs.

25 Jan 2024
Kyzen Solvents Provide Ease of Cleaning for Medical Parts
The Metalnox line of solvent products are designed to improve reliability and increase the ease of cleaning in vacuum and vapor degreasing processes.

30 May 2023
MicroCare Creates Alternative Specialty Cleaning Fluids
MicroCare offers alternatives and expertise for replacing 3M Novec vapor degreasing fluids which are being discontinued, including fluoropolymers, fluorinated fluids and PFAS-based additive products.

25 May 2023
In-line Monitoring for Automated Immersion Cleaning Systems
Ecoclean’s Acoustic Performance Measurement (APM) system provides in-line measurement of ultrasonic frequency and power in fully automated immersion cleaning systems on a batch-by-batch basis or at defined time intervals, such as once a shift, day or week.

10 May 2023
Industry Experts Create On-Demand Aqueous Cleaning Program
Participants who pass the program quizzes earn a certificate of successful completion, as well as 4 hours of continuing education credit from Sam Houston State University.

27 Aug 2024 Parts Cleaning
A ‘Clean’ Agenda Offers Unique Presentations in Chicago
Webinars See All

On Demand
Overcoming Multichannel Mill-Turn and Swiss CAM Programming Challenges
Join this webinar and discover how to overcome multi-channel mill-turn and Swiss CAM programming challenges using SolidCAM, with amazing machine simulation and customized post-processors tailored for your mill-turn and Swiss CNCs. Darrin Bryant, SolidCAM’s applications engineer, will highlight how to utilize SolidCAM's CAM software to enhance your CNC manufacturing and demonstrate how to optimally set up your projects for guaranteed success. Agenda: Major benefits of SolidCAM's single window integration and full associativity in Solidworks Embracing the future of increasingly complex CNC machines—including five-axis, Multi-Channel Mill-Turn and Swiss CNCs Exclusive features of SolidCAM's iMachining that provides much shorter cycle times and superior tool life Using iMachining Technology Wizard takes the guesswork out of defining cutting conditions and automatically provides optimal feeds and speeds while considering stock materials, cutting tools and CNC machine properties Using SolidCAM’s Toolkit to easily create customized precision project setups Highlighting the advantages of multiple verification options in SolidCAM Utilizing SolidCAM’s operations sequence manager to simplify synchronized part creation with fewer steps and higher success
PMTS See All

5 Dec 2024
5 Aspects of PMTS I Appreciate
The three-day edition of the 2025 Precision Machining Technology Show kicks off at the start of April. I’ll be there, and here are some reasons why.

8 Nov 2024
Registration Now Open for the Precision Machining Technology Show (PMTS) 2025
The precision machining industry’s premier event returns to Cleveland, OH, April 1-3.

6 Jun 2023
The People Part of PMTS
The Precision Machining Technology Show is a great example of discovering ways shopfloor employees can become more efficient, thereby helping shops become more profitable.

20 Apr 2023
Why Are We Writing About a Shop Making Custom Baseball Bats?
I recently learned about a 153-year-old manufacturer that has produced billions upon billions of precision, metal pins which started another business making one-off wooden baseball bats. (Like I asked it to do for me and you’ll see at this year’s Precision Machining Technology Show). Here I explain why it’s worth the time to read that article.

17 Apr 2023
Carbide End Mills for Medical, General Machining Applications
PMTS 2023: The InchMax Series includes 2- and 4-flute square end mills which feature Union Tools’ UT coating and its standard Super Micro Grain carbide and tolerances.

17 Apr 2023
EVO Presetter Offers Accurate, Reliable Operation
PMTS 2023: This tool management solution with Optik software is designed to help shops increase production output and decrease human error.
Emerging Leaders See All

31 Aug 2023
Swiss Rejuvenation Doubles Shop Productivity
As he progressed to CNC Swiss lead and later to his current position as CNC Swiss production supervisor, Darrin Baker helped the Swiss department at Liberty Precision double its productivity, according to his nominator.

24 Aug 2023
Emerging Leader's Tactical Expertise Shines During Move
Over the past year, Mike Gresen has led his team through the process of opening a new Benchmark Electronics location without interrupting supply to customers and within the company budget, shutting down production for only three business days.

17 Aug 2023
Emerging Leader's Dedication to Education
Instilling confidence throughout a shop floor can do wonders for company morale while increasing productivity.

10 Aug 2023
Emerging Leader Introduces CNC Swiss to Students
Mike Medeiros, production manager at North Easton Machine Co., has been advocating CNC Swiss lathes for years, attempting to persuade his local high school’s administration to add the technology to the school’s machining program. Finally, his efforts paid off.

3 Aug 2023
Emerging Leader's Problem-Solving Skills Cool Down a Hot Project
This 2023 Emerging Leader developed a product in response to a call for help from Yamaha that was a huge hit in the snowmobile industry when it hit the market in 2010. In fact, it is now a common product that most snowmobile OEMs have implemented.

1 Aug 2023
2023 Emerging Leaders Strengthen Their Staffs, Solve Problems
Superb critical thinking, top-notch leadership skills and a passion for building a strong team are a few of the common traits held by this year’s five Production Machining Emerging Leader award winners.
Upcoming See All

5 Mar 2025
National Surface Finishing Day
Each year Products Finishing partners with thousands of finishing operations in the U.S. to celebrate National Surface Finishing Day (NSFD) on the first Wednesday in March. NSFD is designed to celebrate and showcase the industry to trade schools, businesses, officials and media, as well as to celebrate employees and staff. The overarching goal of NSFD is to bring further awareness to the important roles plating and coating facilities play in their communities. Facilities are encouraged to host events and work with local media to build awareness about the contributions made by the surface finishing industry. For a helpful guide to reaching out to media outlets, download the NSFD toolkit here. How can you celebrate? Share your company’s story Hold an open house where the public can check out your facility –— either in person or virtual Offer student shop tours to local trade schools Invite local elected officials to visit and get to know your staff Celebrate your employees Share news about what you’re doing on social media and use the hashtag #NationalSurfaceFinishingDay or #NSFD

1 Apr 2025
Precision Machining Technology Show (PMTS 2025)
Founded in 2001, PMTS reconvenes in April 2025 to celebrate its 13th biennial event for precision machining pros. Mark your calendar now and plan to join the precision machined parts community when we once again gather in person to share challenges and insights, see new technology solutions and learn about process innovations you can take back and immediately put into use in your own shop. The Precision Machining Technology Show is centered at the intersection of the industry's newest and most advanced product technologies, process innovations, business development prospects and personal career growth opportunities.

1 Apr 2025
PMTS
Founded in 2001, PMTS reconvenes in April 2025 to celebrate its 13th biennial event for precision machining pros. Mark your calendar now and plan to join the precision machined parts community when we once again gather in person to share challenges and insights, see new technology solutions and learn about process innovations – everything you need to take back and immediately put to use in your own shop. __PRESENT

1 Apr 2025
PMPA National Technical Conference 2025
PMPA national meetings are a great way to meet face-to-face and develop strategic relationships. PMPA members have access to dynamic speakers, informative sessions and networking opportunities. Our events are tailored so that everyone has a change to learn: owners, management, shop floor personnel, engineers, human resources, etc.

2 Apr 2025
Parts Cleaning Workshop
Critical Cleaning Hands-on Workshop Do it; learn it! The one-day workshop teaches how cleaning and cleanliness testing work. By participating in hands-on exercises of techniques for cleaning and cleanliness verification, attendees gain the understanding and knowledge to make practical, effective, and sustainable manufacturing decisions. While exercises are supplemented by demonstrations and tutorials, the workshop is not death by PowerPoint! Topics include aqueous, solvent, and “non-chemical” cleaning, including cleaning chemicals and cleaning processes (spray, ultrasonics, cyclic nucleation, in-line, batch). Most manufactured product and product contact surfaces require cleaning during (and sometimes after) manufacture and assembly. Examples of areas where effective cleaning is essential include: metal fabrication, product assembly, optics, electronics, microelectronics, wafer fab, medical devices, aerospace/aeronautics, military, and additive manufacturing. WHAT DO YOU CALL CLEANING? There are many different terms for cleaning. Cleaning Precision Cleaning Critical Cleaning Safety/Critical Cleaning Surface Prep for Finishing Technical Cleanliness Residue Removal WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM THE WORKSHOP If you or your company fabricates, finishes, maintains or repairs product or product contact surfaces (like reaction vessels), this workshop is time well-spent. If you sell chemicals or cleaning equipment, this workshop will help you better understand and optimize the market for your products. Examples include: Manufacturing Engineers Product Designers Managers Sales and Marketing Managers Facilities Personnel Assemblers, operators Process Technicians Quality Control Personnel Regulatory Affairs Experts (industry, military, and government) Safety/environmental professionals Participants will receive a PDF Certificate of Completion with continuing education credits from Sam Houston State University.

13 May 2025
Manufacturing Technology Series EAST 2025
The Manufacturing Technology Series East, featuring EASTEC in West Springfield, Massachusetts — is at the epicenter of a region that is a traditional manufacturing powerhouse. Historically, more than 700 companies have connected at this event to network, learn from industry experts and explore the latest manufacturing technologies.

6 Feb 2025 New & Upcoming
PMPA Management Update Conference 2025 Register Now
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Steven Kline, Jr. Chief Data Officer

14 Jun 2013

May Marks Third Month of Contraction

Production has expanded consistently for four straight months. Employment grew for the fifth month in a row.

16 May 2013

Contraction Accelerates

The lengthy contraction in backlogs, even during periods of growing new orders, indicates that there is available machining capacity at precision manufacturers.

20 Feb 2012

Growth Rate Inches Higher

With a reading of 53.1, the December MBI showed that the metalworking industry grew slightly faster compared with November, marking the 29th consecutive month of industry growth.

22 Sep 2010

Not Your Father's Recession

In a typical economic cycle, some businesses expand too rapidly.

The Best Abrasive for Precision Surface Treatment