Editorial, News, and Products
5 Sinker EDM Advancements
Speed, machine design, software, artificial intelligence and automation help maximize sinker EDM productivity.
Pennsylvania Mold Builder Doubles Footprint, Maintains Quality and Company Values
Quality Mold Inc. doubles its manufacturing footprint but maintains its private company values and structure, delivering quality and fast turnaround from mold design and build through sampling.
Maintaining a Competitive Edge: EDM, Automation and Machining Technology Roundup
This month’s technology roundup features products, processes and services relating to EDM, automation and machining. For example, jig grinding for large molds, scheduling automation software, cobot integration, die sinker EDM and much more.
MoldMaking Technology's Most-Viewed Content 2022: Products
MMT shares the five top-viewed technologies, equipment and services of 2022 in each Engineer, Build, Maintain and Manage tenet based on Google Analytics.
Large Mold Shops can Boost Electrode Wear, Cycle Times with Workhorse Sinker EDM
The MC Machinery Gantry Eagle 1400 sinker EDM combines the latest in technological innovation with a human-centric design for utility across industries.
IMTS 2022 in a Flash
With this still being the month of IMTS, I thought I’d highlight some of the technology mold builders have expressed growing interest in and are actively investigating, and what was on the show floor.
MC Machinery to Host Grand Opening for Southeast Technology Center Oct. 6
Catered food and machine demonstrations — including lasers, EDMs, press brakes and automation systems — will celebrate the opening of the 16,000-square-foot facility.
EDM, Precision Milling Technologies Highlight High-Precision Features for the Moldmaking Industry
MC Machinery Systems features a range of wire and sinker EDMs, machining centers and automation at IMTS 2022.
MC Machinery Announces New EDM, Milling Dealer
J.M. Grisley Machine Tools is a new dealer for MC Machinery Systems complete line of Mitsubishi EDMs and high-precision machining centers.
Modular Sorting System Features Integrated Tool Changer
MC Machinery Systems’ new ASTES4 High Speed Advanced is said to cut sorting times in half, reduce labor costs, improve throughput and eliminate bottlenecks.
New Ownership Revitalizes Precision Mold Builder with Heavy Capital Investments, New Management Style
A rich history in mold building, recent technology investment and a shift in management philosophy re-energizes a Midwest precision mold builder and contract CNC machine shop.
Joy Abbitt Joins MC Machinery Distributor, BlueTec Machinery
Abbitt’s background in advanced machinery sales and services and aviation, will help her in her role as BlueTec Machinery’s Florida territory manager.
MC Machinery Launches "Minds on Manufacturing" Podcast
Podcast episodes will cover topics with engaging guests that appeal to manufacturers in automotive, aerospace, job shop, mold & die and medical industries.
MC Machinery Opens Southeast Technology Center in North Carolina
The new 16,000-square-foot facility will provide MC Machinery customers throughout the region with local access to direct sales, service, application and training support.
Single-Brand EDM Arsenal Helps Moldmaker Speed Services for Diverse Clientele
Microtech Precision sticks with Mitsubishi EDM (and milling) technology to optimize machining capabilities for molds, dies and more.
Five-Axis Hard Milling Improves Electrode Accuracy
Fully automated, high-speed hard milling centers saved moldmaker time, money, handwork, allowed wider-range of EDM burns to be achieved.
VIDEO: 2020 Leadtime Leader Award Winner: Precise Tooling Solutions Inc. — The Power of People and a Plan
The proof is in this winning shop’s three-pillared value proposition and three-phase growth plan that promotes empowers people while promoting quality product and profit.
MC Machinery Announces Dealers, Regional Sales Representative
MC Machinery Systems announces new dealers in several territories across the United States, as well as a new regional sales representative.
MC Machinery Systems Adds Two Fabrication Machinery Distributors
MC Machinery Systems has announced that Carlson Fabrication Solutions, Inc. and Cimarron Industrial Sales are now distributors for laser and press brake machinery.
MC Machinery Announces New Regional Sales Representative
MC Machinery Systems welcomes Craig Barbeck to the team as a regional sales representative for the Northern Ohio Territory.
MC Machinery Welcomes Two Regional Sales Representatives
MC Machinery announces that it has added two news regional sales representatives to its team.
Milling, Wire and Sinker EDM Equipment Optimizes Production
MC Machinery features several of the company’s innovative milling, wire and sinker EDM equipment.
Integrated Laser Automation Solution Controls Entire Production Process
Mitsubishi Electric Corporation offers its laser automation solution, a multifunctional, fully integrated system that is capable of controlling the entire production process from loading, cutting, sorting, and unloading through to the storage of finished parts.
Expertise in Mold Repair and Revisions Makes Quality Mold Inc. A Valuable, Full-Service Resource
Quality Mold Inc. does everything in house including mold repair and refurbishment. Customers also benefit by a mold warranty, financing and guidance.
Noteworthy News: Working Together
Businesses like Emuge Corp., MC Machinery Systems, Inc., DMG MORI and more have made partnerships in order to benefit the moldmaking community.
MC Machinery Welcomes West Coast Service Manager
MC Machinery Systems’s new Western Regional Service Manager of Laser, Michael Pankiewicz, will be responsible for all technical service and support for west coast customers.
Automation Amplifies Machine Sophistication and Speed
MC Machinery Systems will display new automation and machines at FABTECH 2019.
MC Machinery Systems and ADIRA Form Partnership
MC Machinery Systems, Inc., a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Corporation, and Adira, a Portuguese manufacturer, part of Sonae Capital portfolio, have formed a sales and service partnership.
Tech Trends: Automation Nation
Automation can be key for improving overall mold manufacturing operation, so check out these automation products from supplier companies MC Machinery Systems, Schunk, Fastems and Shop Floor Automations.
MC Machinery Announces West Coast Regional Sales Manager
MC Machinery’s new West Coast Regional Sales Manager – Fabrication Division, Tim Gelsomino, will be responsible for west coast operations and growing relationships with current and new customers in the region.
Seasoned Moldmakers and Advanced Technologies Give Del-Tool A Cutting-Edge Advantage
For Del-Tool Co. Inc., a seasoned crew using automation, five-axis CNC and shop management software is the edge needed for continued success.
Noteworthy News: Plan On It
There’s always something exciting going on in the moldmaking community for you to attend and learn more about the latest company updates and technologies.
MC Machinery Systems to Host EDM Training Event
MC Machinery Systems will be hosting a free technical training event for their EDM and milling equipment on September 10, 2019 at the company’s West Coast Technology Center in Cypress, CA.
MC Machinery Welcomes Regional Sales Manager
Jeff Grim joins MC Machinery’s sales team as a Southeast Regional Sales Manager.
High Precision Oil Wire EDM Exceeds Expectations
MTD Micro Molding, a micro molding medical component manufacturer, is the first company in North America to own an MC Machinery MX600 oil wire EDM and expand on how this machine has allowed the shop to work with small component sizes and increase productivity.
MC Machinery Announces New Regional Sales Representative
MC Machinery announces Scott Lindley joins the team as the Pacific Northwest regional sales representative.
MC Machinery Announces Northeast Distributor
MC Machinery Systems Inc. announced the appointment of ProMac Technologies as the new distributor of lasers and press brakes in the northeast region.
MC Machining Systems Announces a New Laser Distributor
MC Machinery Inc. announced the appointment of Black Rock Machinery, as the new distributor of Mitsubishi Laser in Kansas and Missouri.
Strategic Shifts Enable Growth for Fairway Injection Molds
Since its 2017 acquisition by Westfall Technik Inc., Fairway Injection Molds has been making many strategic changes to its infrastructure in preparation for growth.
IMTS 2018: Process,Technology and Service Advancements
Advancements in automation and digital manufacturing took center stage during IMTS last week, but developments in additive manufacturing, cutter technology, machining solutions, simulation software, EDM, laser technology and customer service were other hot items.
Automation and Connectivity Drive Machine-Tool Innovations
Machine tool and EDM suppliers are advancing their offerings to include automation, better controls, machine monitoring and new five-axis capabilities.
MC Machinery Systems Feels the Need for Speed
All things related to metal cutting and automation are in the spotlight at MC Machinery Systems’ booth.
2018 Technology Review and Sourcing Guide: Machining
MoldMaking Technology’s annual Technology Review and Sourcing Guide is an accurate, comprehensive, easy-to-read and easy-to-use use guide for researching today’s technology, equipment, products and services. The year’s latest moldmaking product developments within mold engineering/design, build and maintenance/repair are broken down into 10 sections, including machining.
2018 Technology Review and Sourcing Guide: EDM
MoldMaking Technology’s annual Technology Review and Sourcing Guide is an accurate, comprehensive, easy-to-read and easy-to-use use guide for researching today’s technology, equipment, products and services. The year’s latest moldmaking product developments within mold engineering/design, build and maintenance/repair are broken down into 10 sections, including EDM.
International Perspective: Twenty Years of Tool and Die Making in Europe
The European tool and moldmaking industry has moved from manual to industrial production via internationalization, digitalization, automation and communication.
Technology Tuesday: EDM Success
Cruise through this week’s Technology Tuesday slideshow to see EDM units that shops across the country have used to increase capacity and leverage greater efficiency in their processes.
Machine Control Simplifies Production on EDMs
Mitsubishi says its M800 EDM control provides a touch-screen interface for easy access of operating material statuses and maintenance cycles on EDMs.
Realizing EDM's Full Potential with Automation
EMO Hannover 2017 was a showcase for EDM developments, automation solutions and software for data-driven manufacturing.
Technology Tuesday: EMO Wrap Up on EDM, Automation and Industry 4.0
EMO Hannover 2017 was a showcase for EDM developments, automation solutions and software for data-driven manufacturing. EDM technology is evolving through new machine designs, thermal stability, powerful generators, parts handling robots, linear handling systems and software solutions for future Industry 4.0 infrastructures.
Real-Time Mold Production
An automated five-axis machining/EDM cell offers a cost-effective alternative to series and batch mold manufacturing.
Makers Wanted – A Community Campaign for Manufacturing
I recently attended what I believe to be a rather unique event that was held in the gymnasium of a high school and focused exclusively on manufacturing, careers in manufacturing and one community’s campaign to keep it strong and local.
Justifying an EDM Upgrade
Advancements in sinker EDM technology may convince you to invest in a new machine, even if your old one is working just fine.
Leveraging Supplier Partners (Includes Video)
Simply purchasing electrode software wasn’t enough for this mold manufacturer. The shop worked closely with both the EDM and software developers to influence the development of a system that would meet its needs.
2015 Leadtime Leader Awards Honorable Mention: Dynamic Tool & Design - Committing to a Scientific Process
This shop’s recent strides in mold qualification mirror an ongoing transition to a more systematic approach to mold manufacturing. Meanwhile, a culture of ownership ensures a full buy-in from veteran employees as well as fresh talent attracted through extensive workforce development efforts.
2015 Leadtime Leader Awards Winner: Cavalier Tool & Manufacturing - Setting the Pace Holistically
This mold manufacturer has radically transformed its business by instituting a standardized, flexible process, advanced technology and a people-centric philosophy.
Structured for Advancement
Production problems at Advanced Mold & Tooling (AMT) might not always be easy to solve, but chances are, they’ll be recognized.
EDM Upgrades Enable Faster, Smarter Burns
Intuitive operation, “intelligent” control features, energy savings and raw performance were among the factors driving this shop’s choice of new sinker and wire EDM machines.
Minding the Business
This toolmaker and low-volume injection molder’s diversification shows that business savvy can be just as critical to success as an efficient manufacturing process.
Complementing Laser Sintering with EDM
Laser sintering unlocks the potential to “grow” conformal-cooled inserts from the ground up. Wire EDM ensures production proceeds at a pace that keeps up with demand.
Critical Equipment at Aalbers Tool & Mold
EDMs that have slashed burn time by a third and two five-axis machining centers are among the latest equipment implemented at the winner of this year’s Lead Time Leader—Honorable Mention award.
The Intersection of Laser Sintering and EDM
For this moldmaker, wire EDM helps streamline production of inserts that are “grown” with cooling lines already inside.
2014 Leadtime Leader Awards Honorable Mention: Aalbers Tool & Mold Inc
A rush of recent change for this moldmaker belies a long-term growth strategy that’s anything but aggressive. Key aspects of this cautious approach include strategic expansion, continuous improvement, extensive data tracking, and investments in workforce development and environmental sustainability.
Digital Ed. of MMT's May Additive Mfg. Supplement Ready
This month's edition features stories on how to push additive manufacturing to the next level with a commitment to customer service, education and training, as well as a look at one manufacturer's year-long journey with additive manufacturing.
Laser Sintering and Milling Working Together
A hybrid manufacturing process offers mold builders an alternative method for making cores and cavities with time and cost savings and increased consistency.
Metal Laser Sintering Hybrid Milling
Metal laser sintering hybrid milling combines metal powder 3D laser sintering with high speed milling finishing into one machining system.
Laser Focused on Moldmakers
A new partnership brings to North America a metal laser sintering hybrid milling machine that can fabricate molds and dies with very complex geometries in one piece with high accuracy, shortening lead time and reducing manufacturing costs.
Wire EDM Goes 3D CAM for Moldmaking Operations
New features, technologies and software make wire EDM well-suited for tackling solid models, and improving taper angles and surface finish.
“Fixing” to Get More Accurate, Increase Productivity with Automation
The Roku-Roku machine, EROWA workholding system and the EROWA Robot Multi form the production team. Optimally used, this team can deliver up to four times higher productivity.
Raising the Bar on Better
A look at one project to move away from traditionally customized moldmaking toward a level of complete automation that raises the bar on accuracy, repeatability and control.
New EDM Pushes Performance and Precision
“This machine has changed wire EDM in a way that the machines I’ve operated have not been able to do, because it cuts substantially faster than its predecessors, yet it consumes about 40 percent less wire.”
Mega-Cell: Moldmaking Automation
The Mega-Cell is a production system that ties together all available opportunities to automate and control the process.
2013 Leadtime Leader Awards: Honorable Mention Micro Mold Company, Inc.: Partnering to Push the Limits
This mold manufacturer wins the 2013 Leadtime Leader Honorable Mention title because it exceeds expectations with a team mentality—stemming from its youthful leadership working closely with skilled tradesmen—that sees customers, its sister molding company and industry associations as true partners.
2013 Leadtime Leader Awards: Winner Tech Mold Inc.
A three-division approach, technology innovation and a grow-your-own skilled workforce allows this mold manufacturer to balance the entire moldmaking process — ensuring continued success and landing it this year’s 2013 Leadtime Leader Award Winner title.
EDM Efficiencies Excel
Advancements in EDM processes in terms of machining speed and surface finish improve overall accuracy, productivity and profitability.
Cylindrical Drive Technology Adds Efficiency to EDM Operations
New system only exposes half of the magnetic flux to the face of the coils.
Equipment Investment Allows Moldmaker to Zero in Medical/Packaging Niches
Tech Mold Inc. (Tempe, AZ)—a manufacturer of high-volume, multi-cavity molds for the medical disposable, packaging (caps and closures) and consumer markets—has invested just under $1,000,000 on new equipment over the past six months. These new capabilities have allowed the company to refocus its efforts in the medical and packaging markets.
How to Navigate New Horizons with Waterjet
Expand capabilities and diversify customer base with waterjet technology.
Diverse Mold Offerings Sustain Moldmaker, Secures Future Business
Pelco Tool & Mold, Inc. (Glendale Heights, IL)—a producer of close-tolerance, high-quality tools for the closure, food and beverage, personal care, and medical industries—designs and builds a plethora of molds, including, single face and stack, rotating ratchet ring (RRR), conventional unscrewing, strip, side-action, collapsible core, compression, front-loaded core, insert and prototype.
Wire EDM Solution
FA30V
Reducing Energy Usage with Wire EDM
Technology advances have helped make today’s EDMs environmentally friendly.
How to Succeed with Smart EDM Operation
Factors that can contribute to the success of EDM or be detrimental to the process.
Advance Wire EDM
The series combines the high speed of the V machine with the FA-S’s high accuracy and surface finish.
Elite Mold & Engineering: Team Elite
Being both a moldmaker and a molder allows Elite Mold to be a one-stop team for its customers and the MoldMaking Technology 2009 Leadtime Leader Honorable Mention Award: Small Shop.
Optimize Machine Performance with Proper Filtration
There are multiple factors to consider when it comes to operating a wire EDM and filter quality should be one of them. Proper filtration can save EDM users money and time relating to production and maintenance. Buying low-cost filters may seem like an easy place to cut costs, but the truth is, it can be a costly mistake.
A Hole Is Not Just a Hole
Increasing precision in small-hole EDM drilling.
Extreme Tool and Engineering, Inc.: Embracing Change
This shop—never content to rest on its laurels—combines lean initiatives and the latest in technology to be a one-stop shop for its customers and win the MoldMaking Technology 2008 Leadtime Leader Award: Small Shop.
Automation and Moldmaking: Streamling Processes
Automation is coming into the forefront as moldmakers are on the hunt to automate with software and equipment to streamline processes for optimal productivity—and quality.
High Cavitation Molds Promote Economies of Scale
Toolmakers are developing increasingly complex molds for high production of thinwall parts.
Burning Bright
EDM experts reveal that trends in increased automation combined with unattended machining result in better accuracy and surface finishes in wire and diesinking EDM applications.
Automation Increases Throughput
The addition of an automated cell helps moldmaker/prototyper increase efficiency and speed.
EDM Additions Equal Productivity and Profitability
EDM Additions Equal Productivity and Profitability