Every manufacturing operation has a guy. That one guy in the shop who seems to have a knack for creating some cobbled together apparatus for holding, clamping or stabilizing a critical part in the operation of a production machine. In many ways he’s the blue-collar version of MacGyver and the guy you call when you [...]
A tariff is defined as a tax or duty paid on a certain class of imports or exports. The term has been around for centuries and has been used in the never-ending struggle for “balanced trade”. For the last thirty years, however, tariffs had fallen out of favor as a punitive instrument in favor of [...]
In recent years, much of the focus of news related to 3D printing has been on the technology’s use within a factory setting, lab, classroom or shop. Each industry exploring 3D printing starts with a learning curve to incorporate the technology for practical use within that industry. As the learning curve develops those [...]
Many of the processes used to produce the thousands of day to day products we consume are shrouded in mystery for the average consumer. Often, the packaging itself is a vital part of the marketing of a product. And while most people have at times harbored thoughts of revenge and fury at packaging clamped [...]
Leaps in technology and performance of 3D printers have dominated headlines for many years. It seems each week brings new machines, new equipment capabilities, better resolutions and higher performance and speed. Materials for 3D printers however, have often been overlooked by tech media, viewed as “less glamorous” and more utilitarian than the printers themselves. [...]
As 3D technology continues to advance, many of the benefits are becoming more integrated within manufacturing. One of the obvious and early applications of 3D technology within the highly competitive manufacturing world has been the growth of rapid prototyping. Previously, companies could take weeks, months and even years to perform all the R&D required [...]
Everyone loves a good tradeshow. With the latest technology and product offerings it can be a great way to find new products and services. But with all the competing hype it can be hard to lure passersby to your booth. Many companies use food and candy, or even clever costuming. Others use promotional giveaways such [...]
Finding the right corporate gift can be difficult. Spend too little and it gives the impression of a tchotchke item that can be found anywhere. Spend too much and you can overrun your marketing budget quickly. But instead of hitting Amazon with a list and a credit card why not consider a unique 3D printed [...]
Introduction In August of 2000 the manager of a New England factory was conducting a walk-through of his plant. The factory was experiencing a surge in production due to rising demand. Their product was used in a consumer niche market and was considered a specialty product and there were only four competitors worldwide capable of [...]
Choice of material in any 3D printed project can make or break the home based maker as well as the shop floor parts manufacturer. Common materials such as ABS, PLA, HIPS, Nylon and PVA as well as many others are readily available depending on end use of the project and are easily purchased through the [...]