MMT Blog

Workforce Development 13 Feb 2013

Currier Plastics Jumps on the Education Bandwagon!

Custom plastics molder Currier Plastics just received a grant by the state Department of Labor to train its employees in all things lean manufacturing.

12 Feb 2013

"Non Silba, Sed Anthar: Not for Self, But for Others"

These are the words of a very grateful veteran -after receiving his iPad gift--to describe how he felt about the iWarriors mission. Just wanted to share the continuing wonderful efforts of iWarriors--moldmakers on a mission!

Leadership 11 Feb 2013

CAD/CAM Eases the Move to 5-Axis Machining for Moldmaker

Automotive moldmaker that handles molds up to 40 tons says Sescoi’s WorkNC helped ease its introduction to 5-axis machining with its effective global roughing strategies; smooth, powerful finishing; speed and ease; reduction in EDM operations; and, shop floor programming. Today it has four licenses, including two 5-axis for its machining applications.

Leadership 8 Feb 2013

Time to Spring into Action

It seems to me that winter is as good a time as any to hunker down and think about all the ways your shop has improved within the past year--whether that is increased technology investment, advanced processes, better delivery times, improved quality, an updated business plan, a broader customer base, a solid training program, commitment to industry development--then spring into action and consider giving your company the recognition it deserves. Read on.

Tool Steel 7 Feb 2013

It All Starts with the Steel…

Those were the words spoken by Tim Nealt, Vice President Sales, of steel supplier A. Finkl and Sons, as he and Mold Steel Product Manager Todd Gilhuly guided me and several of my colleagues on a tour of their new 44-acre facility earlier this week.

6 Feb 2013

U.S. Vehicle Sales Strong in January Bodes Well for Moldmakers

There are a couple of newly-emerging trends that bode well for North American moldmakers if they continue. The first is a trend toward more parts made of plastic or composite materials, which results in vehicles that are lighter weight and less expensive to build. The second trend that will be positive for domestic mold shops is that the domestic automakers are taking market share away from imported models. Read more.

5 Feb 2013

Another MoldMaking Technology Top 10 T-shirt Sighting

This time it went to a Charles Robel—the latest recipient of the “Outstanding Student” Award at Waukesha County Technical College. Along with the title and MMT tee, he was awarded a toolbox donated by The Tool, Die, & Machining Association of Wisconsin and MSC Industrial Supplies from their “Tools To Succeed” program.

Hot Runners 1 Feb 2013

It’s Time to Reevaluate Co-Injection Technology

With the development of new resins, hot runners and controls technology, co-injection is positioned to move from a niche market application to mainstream acceptance in the upcoming years.

Case Study 1 Feb 2013

A “Run for the Border” Expands Transportation Market Niche

“This opportunity demonstrates how a great relationship can develop into a partnership with customers, as we’ve become very much a value-added supplier to them. We’re co-located with them and that strategy lends itself to other OEMs looking for similar relationships.”