Calibration blocks are a mainstay of non-destructive testing (NDT). They’re used to detect flaws within a component and can be utilised with various testing methods, including ultrasonic testing (UT), eddy current testing (ET), phased array (PA), advanced ultrasonic testing (A-UT) and time of flight diffraction...
When it comes to deciding on CNC machining or manual production for part creation, it’s necessary to evaluate both the advantages and disadvantages. While automated processes have elevated production methods – driving down costs and increasing accuracy in many situations – there are still times...
The upcoming year is set to be an exciting one for the industry. A potent combination of advanced technology and the ongoing skills shortage is aligning and - for CNC machining – this means change. Perhaps not (yet) monumental change, but something that providers and consumers...
The basic premise of CNC lathe machining relies on rotation. The material that will end up becoming the finished article is mounted onto a single spindle. This is then rotated and moved through pre-programmed axes. As it does so, a variety of machining methods are...
CNC machining is a technologically advanced process that produces highly precise, predictable and repeatable part patterns in a wide range of materials. Such accuracy is achieved through a software program that defines the movements of the shaping tools to produce parts with the required geometry. How...
Reducing engineering and part production costs is a vital element of remaining competitive. Savvy companies constantly review their methods to ensure they’re taking full advantage of ever-changing technology. Taking advantage of multi-axis machining for part production is a prime example of this – a CNC...
Wire cutting – often referred to as Wire Electrical Discharge Machining (WEDM), is an alternative machining method that uses an electrical spark and a taut wire to cut materials with conductive properties. When used in particular situations, WEDM has many advantages over more traditional methods –...
3D printing technology has advanced dramatically over recent years. Reliable and cost-effective for both large and small product runs, the process can be used with a variety of materials. The most commonly used commercial processes work with resin, nylon and various metals to create the desired...
Prototyping is an essential development stage of virtually any new product. It’s especially beneficial in scenarios when it’s necessary to showcase an idea to investors or stakeholders, show a customer how a new idea could benefit their business or prove that refining a current product...
Additive manufacturing (AM) utilises 3D printing technology to create objects by gradually increasing their form through the deposit of layers of material. The basic technology has been in use since the 1980s. However, the process has advanced dramatically since then, with various types now being...