Machine Tools & Metal Working Blog

So the metal forming industry is going to put all its eggs in one basket, at least as far exhibitions are concerned. This month is the last time there will be a special pavilion for metal forming and fabricating technologies at the biennial IMTS Show. Beginning next year, the focus shifts to FABTECH. Will AMT's decision to settle on a single annual exhibition cut down on needless repetition and dilution of content or will it diminish competition?

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In contrast to the CAD marketplace, which centers around a half dozen or so key suppliers, the CAM market remains wide open. Is it a good thing that the market is still highly competitive, or are most CAM software products much the same as each other? Are there certain features that would give one product the definitive edge?

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Studies suggest the ability to deal with people using a bit of discretion and understanding — even on the shop floor — can make a real difference. So what makes for a good and a bad line manager in your experience, and how important is the relationship between shop floor and management personnel for the quality and efficiency of manufacturing operations?

The preceding article is a "sneak peek" from Machine Tools & Metal Working, a newsletter from GlobalSpec. To stay up-to-date and informed on industry trends, products, and technologies, subscribe to Machine Tools & Metal Working today.

It seems like the medicine may be working; the U.S. metalworking sector is spending on new equipment it will need to remain competitive and, by implication, giving global machine tool vendors something to smile about as well. Within a month of the investment stimulus package announced by President Bush, U.S. manufacturing technology consumption jumped more than 80%. Is this the start of a sustained, investment-led recovery for the machine tool and metal working industry?

The preceding article is a "sneak peek" from Machine Tools & Metal Working, a newsletter from GlobalSpec. To stay up-to-date and informed on industry trends, products, and technologies, subscribe to Machine Tools & Metal Working today.

Terrorists tout their ability to thwart high-tech enemies with low-tech strategies. Is it better to fight fire with fire? Yes, and no. As one company's Non-Killer Application illustrates, high-tech can be gainfully employed to optimize and secure a low-tech advantage. Can you submit other examples?

The preceding article is a "sneak peek" from Machine Tools & Metal Working, a newsletter from GlobalSpec. To stay up-to-date and informed on industry trends, products, and technologies, subscribe to Machine Tools & Metal Working today.