No, additive manufacturing will not replace mass production processes any time soon. However, as a supporting technology, it can improve mould-making processes drastically, upgrading manufacturing efficiency.

Surface effects on plastic moulded products can be created using mould inserts treated by a laser process more efficient than ablation.

Toolholding company Gewefa in the UK has developed a parts kit for use in machine tool maintenance and servicing.

Hypermill 2019.1 by Open Mind Technologies will be showcased at Solidworks in February. The new software promises more efficiency and an easy to use interface.

Thread forming as an alternative method to thread cutting, although not new, remains a relatively unexploited resource that can offer significant benefits over traditional methods.

Numerous highlights that will be presented at the Moulding Expo Trade Fair and the latest innovations in die, tool and mould making.

Germany – The Deburring Expo for deburring, chamfering and the production of precision surfaces tops the last edition with about 15 percent more exhibitors.

The remarkable strength-to-weight ratio and highly corrosion-resistant properties of titanium have resulted in the ever-growing use of this important engineering material in many demanding sectors. Current developments make the cutting of the material more effective.

Cutting tool expert Union Tool leads in the domain of hard milling. Here, the Japanese manufacturer demonstrates the optimal way of milling a solid block of 1.2344 steel, tempered to 54HRC to 100mm from each side.

Cooling lubricants are often used to prevent stubborn graphite dust when milling electrodes. This means that it is not necessary to acquire an additional milling machine for graphite machining. Cooling lubricants help to extend tool life and to improve dimensional accuracy.