Air Bending vs. Bottom Bending: 3 Key Differences

Air Bending vs. Bottom Bending: 3 Key Differences

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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Why Fiber Laser Cutting Machines Need Air Compressors

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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When To Choose Horizontal Over Vertical Machining

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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How Different Industries Use Laser Cutting Machines

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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Seven Tips for Reducing Machine Maintenance Costs

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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Which Tools and Equipment You Need for Metal Fabrication

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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Why Laser Cutting Is Best for Sheet Metal Fabrication

Why Laser Cutting Is Best for Sheet Metal Fabrication

Sheet metal fabrication may involve bending, rolling, welding, stamping, or punching through a variety of metals. But it most often requires cutting sheet metal into different lengths, shapes, and sizes. Laser cutting stands as the superior choice because of its precision, speed, efficiency, and ability to perform while generating a minimum of waste. Laser cutting has been fine-tuned over the years to meet the evolving needs of various industries. Investing in laser cutting technology is a prudent decision for any [...]

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5 Applications for Hydraulic Press Brakes

5 Applications for Hydraulic Press Brakes

The versatility and precision of hydraulic press brakes make them indispensable in numerous industries. Explore five applications for hydraulic press brakes to understand their wide-ranging capabilities. What Is A Hydraulic Press Brake? A hydraulic press brake is a type of machine in the metalworking industry that bends metal sheets and plates. The machine uses hydraulic pressure to force a punch (upper die) into a V-shaped die (lower die) and create bends in the metal, often with computerized controls (computer numeric control, [...]

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Hydraulics 101: A Guide to Pressurized Fluid Systems

Hydraulics 101: A Guide to Pressurized Fluid Systems

Hydraulics are essential aspects of engineering that involve the mechanical properties and use of liquids. This “hydraulics 101” guide to pressurized fluid systems will provide a refresher on the concepts, principles, and applications of hydraulic systems in a practical manner. What Are Hydraulic Systems? Hydraulic systems, also known as pressurized fluid systems, use fluids (typically oils) under pressure to generate, control, or transmit power. They can be as simple as a car jack or as complex as the system that powers [...]

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Mistakes To Avoid When Using a Robotic Plasma Cutter

Mistakes To Avoid When Using a Robotic Plasma Cutter

Robots are known for their precision and consistency, outperforming humans in tasks requiring meticulous detail and accuracy. However, when using a robot, people need to remember that the machine is only as good as the data it's fed. People make mistakes, and incorrect data, inaccurate measurements, or improper settings can lead to errors. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using a robotic plasma cutter. Improper Torch Assembly and Cleaning A properly assembled and clean torch is essential for a [...]

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