Blog
What is CO2 Laser Cutting, and How Does it Work?
When you need to cut parts out of a sheet, you often can’t beat the precision and speed of a laser cutter. But not all laser cutters and engravers are built the same or have the same capabilities. One of the most popular laser cutting machines is the CO2 laser cutter....
What is a 4-Axis CNC Machine, and How Does it Compare to 3-Axis Machines?
Machine shops contain a diverse collection of equipment for meeting the production needs of designers. This machinery can be used together to create an unlimited number of unique shapes for both simple and complex parts. Without machining expertise, however, design...
Machining Large Parts: Understanding the Problems and Solutions
At the start of the Digital Revolution, people thought that computers and robots would push humans out of the workplace, doing their jobs faster and cheaper. Instead we’ve come to find that human creativity and ingenuity are essential, irreplaceable components for...
What is a Sinker EDM Machine? Understand Their Benefits and Limitations
Sinker electrical discharge machining (EDM) – also known as ram EDM, conventional EDM, die-sinker EDM, and plunge EDM – is one of the oldest and most widely known types of EDM. It is a unique machining method for making intricate parts with high precision, even in...
3 Big Benefits of Contracting a CNC Machine Shop
Should you develop in-house or outsource to a contractor? You might be asking yourself this question because you’re in the process of developing a new product. Or maybe you’re frustrated with issues in your supply chain and looking for reliable alternatives. You might...
What is Wire EDM, and How Does it Work?
When people think of machining, lathes and milling machines may be the first thing they imagine. Still, there are a variety of other machining processes that may be even better suited for certain applications. One such method is electrical discharge machining (EDM)....
3 Types of Welding All Product Designers Should Understand
Welding is an efficient, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing method for joining metal assemblies together. But with so many different welding processes to choose from, product designers may not know which is best for their project. While some applications will...
What is Reverse Engineering, and When do You Apply It?
In order to innovate and improve a technology or process, designers must have an in-depth knowledge of existing systems, either because they had a hand in the design of the originals or because they applied reverse engineering principles. Reverse engineering as a...
Heat Treatment for Metals: What You Need to Know
Metal heating processes have been used since the ancient times. Back in the days, blacksmiths heat-treated metal to shape it into horseshoes, or wagon parts. And as the years go by, heating metal remains the most effective way to form it into the desired shape....
What is a Bead Blast? A Guide to Bead Blasting
A bead blast is a process that uses tiny beads to smooth and polish the surface of a material. After CNC machining, bead blasting is the final finishing process that gives a part its desired finish. In this comprehensive guide, we'll answer all your questions about...