Sustainability vs. Growth
Sales volume is not the metric by which Harbec measures its progress; sustainability is. At Harbec success and sustainability are synonymous, and it is an outlook that permeates every aspect of this business. Harbec is evidence that manufacturing can be clean and environmentally friendly, and that computers and CAM systems are a toolmaker’s best friends.
Read MoreTools of the Trade Aren't Being Passed On
An earlier editorial of mine on "moldmaking in the mainstream" actually got some readers to share their point of view on the subject. Here is one I thought I'd share.
Read MoreMaking Marketing a Priority
Marketing is not always a top priority for many small to mid-size mold manufacturers, but it needs to be. We asked MMT’s 2013 Leadtime Leaders to share a few successful, yet simple, solutions.
Read MoreThe Life of a Machinist
How about a reality show web series with a mission to popularize the machining trade and attract new talent to manufacturing?
Read MoreAnother Option for Moldmaking Automation
While attending Euromold in Germany early this month with a MoldMaking Technology editorial advisory board member by my side, we visited a company showing a machine ideal for some moldmaking automation.
Read MoreManufacturing Skills Day
If you are in the area, why not check out Union County College in Elizabeth, New Jersey, as they host a “Manufacturing Skills Day” for all manufacturing skill stakeholders in the area. They will be highlighting their partnership with Scientific Management Techniques, a leader in manufacturing skills training and manufacturing skills assessments.
Read MoreGlobal Tooling Trends
For an outlook on the global tooling market, check out the International Special Tooling & Machining Association's 2013 Statistical Year Book, which includes a look at Canada, China, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Japan, Korea, Latvia, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Turkey, UK and USA.
Read MoreFreedom in Injection Blow Mold Design
R&D/Leverage® introduces a paradigm shifting concept in injection blow mold design. They have a six-cavity tool running three different bottles, three different preform designs, at different weights, lengths and neck finish sizes. See the video here.
WatchThe New Rules of Innovation
"Focus on agility and innovation because quality is expected." That was the message of Carl Bass, president and CEO of Autodesk, in his address at an indusry event last month. He defined innovation as "making products that differentiate you from your competition" and explained that agility is "how quicky you can bring a product to market." Both are quite apropos for today's mold manufacturer.
Read MoreMoldMaking Technology's December Digital Ed is Available
MMT's December issue--digital edition available--features technical articles on selecting the right material for specific mold components to help prevent a number of costly issues; specialized temperature control for manifolds and nozzles; and, a look at crib notes on press operation for mold repair personnel.
Read MoreGlobal Economy, Global Forecast
Two new IMTSTV IN BRIEF programs are available at IMTS.com. One provides some insight on the next downturn in the economy, exchange rates impacting global supply chains, and what it takes to create a global economic forecast.
Read MoreManufacturing Pays
A week-long event provided individuals--returning veterans, unemployed individuals or people looking to improve their current employment situation--with the opportunity to learn the basic skills needed for a career in manufacturing.
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