Articles Archives

09 Apr

What’s the Difference Between OEM and ODM Manufacturing?

You hear the acronyms all the time, but do you know what they mean? What's the difference between OEM and ODM manufacturing, anyway? They sound alike, but they aren’t the same. Understanding what these terms mean is significant in product development and production. What Do the Acronyms Stand For? An original equipment manufacturer (OEM) is a company that manufactures components or products that are then purchased and rebranded by another firm. An original design manufacturer (ODM), on the other hand, is [...]

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01 Apr

9 Mistakes You Should Avoid When Designing Sheet Metal Parts

Designing sheet metal parts demands precision and foresight. Even with computer-assisted design (CAD), designers can neglect important considerations that make manufacturing difficult or more expensive. Thinking about these mistakes you should avoid when designing sheet metal parts will help designers gain insight necessary to ensure parts will be durable, functional, and, where necessary, visually attractive. Failing To Consider Ductility, Malleability, and Tensile Strength Ductility refers to the ability of a metal to deform under tension, often measured by the extent to which [...]

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29 Mar

What Are the Major Benefits of CNC Machining?

Computer numerical control (CNC) machining has revolutionized the manufacturing industry. What are the major benefits of CNC machining? Explore the key advantages of using CNC with metal fabrication machinery. Production Speed One of the most notable benefits of CNC machining is production speed. CNC machines can operate at high speeds and run continuously with minimal downtime for maintenance. Continuous operation reduces production times, allowing manufacturers to meet tight deadlines and high demands without compromising quality. Precision and Accuracy CNC machining offers unparalleled precision [...]

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27 Mar

5 Common Sheet Metal Fabrication Terms Explained

Sheet metal fabrication is a complex process that involves a variety of techniques and specialized terminology. To help you navigate this field, we've put together a guide to five common sheet metal fabrication terms, explained in detail. Tooling: Hard, Soft, and Hybrid Tooling and Die Sets Sheet metal fabrication often involves custom-made die sets that are used to cut, shape, and form metal. Tooling is the process of designing and engineering the tools needed to manufacture a part. There are three main [...]

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13 Mar

Air Bending vs. Bottom Bending: 3 Key Differences

Air bending and bottom bending are two common techniques used in metal fabrication. Although press brakes with the appropriate tool and die attachments can perform both types of bending, there are distinct differences between the two methods. With air bending versus bottom bending, three key differences affect the quality of the final product. Difference 1: How Deeply the Machine Pushes the Metal Into the Die One of the most significant differences between air bending and bottom bending lies in how far [...]

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05 Mar

Why Fiber Laser Cutting Machines Need Air Compressors

Fiber laser cutting machines have revolutionized the manufacturing industry with their precision and efficiency. To operate optimally, they require a gas assist, often provided by an air compressor. Explore why fiber laser cutting machines need air compressors and how those compressors contribute to the machine's effectiveness. Why Fiber Laser Cutters Use Assist Gases Assist gases play a crucial role in fiber laser cutting. They aid in ejecting molten material from the cut, preventing it from re-solidifying onto the workpiece. Additionally, assist [...]

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22 Feb

When To Choose Horizontal Over Vertical Machining

The choice between horizontal and vertical machining can significantly impact the efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness of your metalworking operations. Explore factors that affect your decision regarding when to choose horizontal over vertical machining. Horizontal vs. Vertical Machining Centers Horizontal and vertical metalworking machines are different in exactly the way their names imply: a vertical machine operates vertically, perpendicular to the table. A horizontal machine operates parallel to the table. Horizontal machines excel at jobs involving peripheral or face milling and are particularly [...]

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22 Feb

How Different Industries Use Laser Cutting Machines

Laser cutting machines offer versatility and precision and have become vital tools in many different industries. Take a look at how different industries use laser cutting machines to enhance their manufacturing processes and produce high-quality products. Aerospace Components and Plane Parts The aerospace industry relies heavily on laser cutting machines to produce intricate components and plane parts. The high level of accuracy and precision these machines provide is crucial in an industry where even the smallest mistake can have significant consequences. Auto [...]

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22 Feb

Seven Tips for Reducing Machine Maintenance Costs

Well-maintained equipment is the bedrock of productivity and quality output in metal fabrication. Machine maintenance can become a substantial cost sink, especially for shops keen on maximizing their operational efficiency and minimizing downtime. The costs associated with servicing mechanical parts, lubricating, and updating software can quickly accumulate, denting a company’s bottom line. Effective maintenance strategies are thus essential not just for the longevity of the equipment but also for cost control. Reducing machine maintenance costs, while ensuring equipment reliability, is [...]

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21 Feb

Which Tools and Equipment You Need for Metal Fabrication

So, you're writing up your business plan to open your own fabrication shop. You’ll need to know which tools and equipment you need for metal fabrication and include the costs in your startup budget. Review the essential machines every metal fabrication should have to ensure success in the industry. Metal Shears Shears are indispensable in a metal fabrication shop. These cutting tools can slice through various types of metal sheets with precision. The different types of shears include guillotine, swing beam, [...]

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