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July 9, 2020

How to Boost Productivity with Less Onsite Personnel

Firetrace International recently sat down with Eric Fogg from Machine Metrics, and Conor Puckett from BioChem Fluidics to understand the rapid changes they’ve seen in the safety and data overlap due to COVID-19, and how this will continue to impact the manufacturing space well into the future.

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May 27, 2020

5 Things to Keep in Mind for Starting Your Own Machine Shop

Recently, Firetrace International had a panel discussion with two entrepreneurial machinists – Adam Demuth of Demuth Tool, and Dan Rudolph of Rudolph LLC, where we discussed how they got started with their own machine shops and advice they had for others looking to do the same. We took that discussion to compile a list of some of the most important things to consider if you’re also looking to start your own shop.

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December 9, 2019

Understanding the Demand for 5-Axis Machining

We are entering the era of 5-axis machining. Between increased competition, Industry 4.0, and the continual widening of the skilled labor gap, the machining industry is seeing some rapid changes around the technology used on the shop floor. The demand for 5-axis machining is higher than ever. In 2020, sales in 5-axis vertical machines are expected to increase by 18%, and 5-axis horizontal machines are expected to increase by 20%.

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October 23, 2019

Benefits of a Connected Machine Shop

Connected machine shops are closing the loop by implementing operational changes to improve processes and procedures based on the data collected and analyzed from machines. Connected machines allow you to monitor machines for real-time data while collecting data over time to help you discover trends in production. Learn how connectivity can be a powerful tool for your machine shop.

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October 7, 2019

How Increasing Automation in Machine Shops Enables Growth Without Taking Away Jobs

Adding automation to your machine shop will not just increase your overall productivity, it will help keep employees engaged. Using automation for repetitive and monotonous tasks, allows your workers to use their skills on larger, more important projects.

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October 1, 2019

Getting Up and Running After a Machine Shop Fire

Your response to a fire disaster is crucial in minimizing downtime and getting operations back up and running as quickly as possible. Downtime, as well as repair and replacement costs, rapidly add up. Learn three key guidelines to help you return to normal operations following a fire.

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September 24, 2019

Four Key Takeaways from the 2019 Top Shops Conference

Modern Machine Shop’s “Top Shops” program uses data collected from surveying machine shops of all types and size. The information is compiled to determine the top-performing shops and outlines best practices and key metrics for success. This benchmarking data offers actionable intel to compare your machine shop to the country’s leading machining businesses.

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September 12, 2019

Understanding Dust Collector Fire Protection

According to Dust Safety Science, in 2018, dust collectors ranked the highest when it came to combustible dust incidents with 51 fires, 12 explosions, 23 injuries, and one fatality. While reported dust collector fires are not as common as in other equipment, the damage and threat to personal safety are significant. Learn about fire hazards and fire protection methods.

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August 21, 2019

The Three Types of Safety Hazards in CNC Machine Shops

Health and safety professionals in machine shops have the important job of creating and maintaining a safe work environment. They establish standard operating procedures for machinery and equipment use, develop and oversee safety polices, and provide safety training. They identify and address potential safety hazards to mitigate the risks.

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July 29, 2019

Should You Be Using an Oil Based Coolant?

In CNC machining, the two functions of coolants are to cool the tool and reduce friction in the cut. While functionality may be the same, machine shops have the choice of using water-miscible fluids, soluble oils, synthetics, and semi synthetics. The coolant used depends on the machining operation. We will explore the pros and cons of oil-based coolants.

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March 22, 2019

EDM and CNC Machine Fire Protection: Comparing Your Options

Machine shops lose around $50 billion annually due to unplanned downtime and delays. Putting in place proper fire suppression equipment in your machine shop can prevent lengthy delays, expensive repairs, and decrease risks in your shop and your business.

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March 14, 2019

Why Fires Start in CNC Machines

To make sure you’re running the safest and most profitable business, you can assess your current risk of fire and learn how to implement proper protection measures to maximize success. Fire suppression systems installed on CNC machines protect machines, employees, and the surrounding manufacturing area.

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