Advanced CAM software products have abilities not only to identify collisions prior to bringing them to a machine, but also avoid these collisions. When collisions are identified, there may be many alternative cutter orientations that can provide a non-interfering instruction. […]
Without proper tooling, one cannot imagine the challenges of entering a world of micro machining where the tooling used is sometimes also very challenging to see. […]
Adapting CAD modeling data for CAM is not always a seamless process. Even small inaccuracies in file translation can result in time-consuming manual repairs. And even if the translated data is accurate, some designs may fail to meet manufacturing requirements, increasing the difficulties of cutting the mold or resulting in bad mold configurations that build [...]
If you design molds for a living, chances are there’s simulation software out there that can help you do your job more effectively. But what type of software should you be looking for? The answer is software that enables digital prototyping. […]
When the proper micro tool is chosen for moldmaking, there are many parameters with which to deal. The most important is knowing exactly what materials are being machined and their hardness or toughness qualities, or “machinability”. Guessing or coming close on this point will lead to much wasted time and tooling. […]
To enable effective simulation in the design process, companies should keep a few key elements top of mind: […]
There are several shops that achieved their sales goals within the past year through a solid sales process and achievable goals. […]
The first and hardest step in the lean process is recognizing that your perfectly functioning shop can be improved. […]
First, this type of machine may take a beating machining graphite if it lacks the appropriate dust protection and it may not have the tight tolerance required for repositioning and redressing electrodes. The bottom line is that achieving efficiency in machining micro EDM electrodes calls for a machine dedicated to this process and designed for [...]
First and foremost, machine selection is a huge part of operational efficiency in EDM. Depending on the application, moldmakers can choose from wire, drilling, sinker or some combination of the three. […]