Acetone-based nail polish remover can be used to clean the bearings, and you could try bicycle oil, petroleum jelly or even a silicone-based personal lubricant to grease them before reassembling the wheels. Just stay away from things like WD-40 – these are much too thick for skateboard bearings and could damage your wheels in the long run.

Cleaning skateboard bearings, wheels and grip tape are all essential parts of board maintenance. Learn about keeping your skateboard clean here.

The specialist “grip gum” you can purchase at specialist skateboard shops to help clean grip tape can sometimes be found more cheaply at DIY or art supply shops – it’s used to clean belt sanders and to absorb excess fluid when watercolour painting. Ask for ‘rubber cement pickup eraser’.

More than 30 years ago, 3D Systems brought the innovation of 3D printing to the manufacturing industry. Today, as the leading additive manufacturing s...READ MORE

Take a look inside James Engineering, a high-end CNC Deburring OEM that became a job shop when they decided to produce their own parts in-house.

Okamoto offers variety of capabilities in Internal, Cylindrical, Universal, Surface (manual, automatic or CNC), Rotary, along with a variety of oth...READ MORE

Legacy Precision Molds takes us on a tour of their moldbuilding facility. They've recently implemented two automated 5-axis cells for metal and graphite machining that run lights out during nights and weekends.

Dial indicators come in various sizes, ranges and resolutions. All translate variations (through the internal movement of a rack) into dial readings. Some will indicate dimensional variations as small as 0.00005 inch. They can have balanced or continuous dials, and some types can even work backward based on the application. All these options are available because the goal of the indicator is to enable the user to read it as easily as possible without requiring too much interpretation.

The reed mechanism was a breakthrough in high-precision measurement and is still used today for sub-micron or even nanometer resolution applications.

Decker Machine Works recently adopted Rego-Fix’s reCool through-coolant system for ER collets, reducing the cycle times on a nickel alloy job by 70%.

Autodesk and Haas have teamed up to produce an introductory course for students that covers the basics of CAD, CAM and CNC while providing them with a portfolio part.

If you can, it’s best to use cleaners and lubricants specifically intended for skateboards for cleaning skateboard bearings – but there are household items you can use in a pinch!

You don’t need to struggle with an ERP which isn’t designed for your business. ProShop dramatically improves efficiency because it focuses...READ MORE

As production tolerances become ever tighter and the error margin for measurement results shrinks, manufacturers must consider thermal fluctuations in their inspection processes.

Conical barrel cutters have grown in popularity thanks to the large stepovers that reduce the time needed for some finishing processes, but advanced CAM systems can dramatically improve their usefulness.

Working closely with customers and making careful investments has enabled this Wisconsin machine shop to tackle difficult jobs with tight deadlines as a core part of its business.

And there you have it – how to clean skateboard wheels, bearings and grip tape, and keep your board in good working order. Happy skating!

Legacy Precision Molds takes us on a tour of their moldbuilding facility. They've recently implemented two automated 5-axis cells for metal and graphite machining that run lights out during nights and weekends.

The Carmelite monks of Wyoming adopted CNC machining to help build a monastery that, without this technology, would take decades or longer to complete. How they are doing it is fascinating. But so is why.

How to readaboremicrometer

Dormer Pramet manufacturers rotary and indexable drilling, milling, threading and turning tools for general engineering, high production, aerospace an...READ MORE

JD Machine, 2024’s Top Shops Honoree in Human Resources, embodies its “Education for Life” core value with a robust apprenticeship program and significant continuous improvement efforts.

When using the tolerance markers, the goal is that the plus and minus tolerances are in the range of the dial’s ten and two o’clock positions. At the ten-two position, about 20% of the dial is large enough to view the intolerance position easily. There are also large-approach and over-tolerance ranges to see the work coming into tolerance, similar to the analog feature on the dial watch mentioned above. This is part of the reason for such a variety of ranges and resolutions of dial indicators.

Determining whether to use high-density fixtures or to simplify workholding requires a deeper look into the details of your parts and processes.

The MX7 platform supports the grinding of various tool shapes in a single setup, eliminating the need for wheel changes.

Looking to automate your shop floor? The Automated Shop Conference (TASC) will connect shops with experts who can advise them through this transition.

PMPA national meetings are a great way to meet face-to-face and develop strategic relationships.  PMPA members have access to dynamic speakers, informative sessions and networking opportunities.  Our events are tailored so that everyone has a change to learn: owners, management, shop floor personnel, engineers,  human resources, etc.

By focusing machine tending on pallets rather than individual parts, KAD Models has automated its high-mix, low-volume workload — and thrived as a result.

An inside look into the Carmelite Monks of Wyoming, who are combining centuries-old Gothic architectural principles with modern CNC machining to build a monastery in the mountains of Wyoming.

Job shops are implementing automation and digitalization into workflows to eliminate set up time and increase repeatability in production.

Determining the shape of a workpiece is required in many manufacturing processes. Keep in mind these important points to ensure that you master the process.

Also observe whether this is a balanced or continuous dial. A balanced dial with “+” on the right is the most common for comparative indicators. From the pictures above, we can say that this indicator has a 0.001-inch resolution, and since there are 100 graduations, the measuring range per revolution is 100 times 0.001 inch to equal 0.1 inch. Typically, an American Gage Design (AGD) indicator will have 2.5 revolutions, and in this example 0.250-inch measuring range. In some cases, these indicators will have a second, smaller hand indicating the number of revolutions the hand has moved. This can be a valuable tool to prevent misreading the indicator.

Modern Machine Shop is the leading publication and media brand in North America devoted to CNC machining. MMS combines unprecedented editorial access to manufacturing facilities with decades of experience to provide long-form content that is both insightful and impactful. About Us

Once you’ve removed them from soaking, give the wheels another gentle scrub with your rag or toothbrush. Then dry them carefully with paper towels.

How tomeasure cylinderborewithout abore gauge

How can shops can make informed decisions using data-driven feedback to improve shopfloor efficiency and profitability? And how will these technologies differ between high- and low-volume production?

Automation is no longer a luxury in manufacturing today – it’s a necessity. The Automated Shop Conference (TASC) will connect job shops with experts who offer advice and considerations for this process.

The TungBoreMini series includes an optimized chipbreaker and an advanced internal coolant supply system, which features two dedicated outlets for effective cooling and chip evacuation.

There are many options to choose from when deciding on a dimensional measurement tool. Consider these application-based factors when selecting a measurement solution.

OnLogic is partnering with AI development and implementation specialists to help companies use AI-powered solutions, aiming to drive real business value.

The reed mechanism was a breakthrough in high-precision measurement and is still used today for sub-micron or even nanometer resolution applications.

SmartCAM v2025’s user interface and display features are said to improve the programmer’s efficiency and accuracy in the CNC program development process.

Across a range of technical presentations aimed at small and mid-sized job shops, the first-ever Automated Shop Conference (TASC) offered insights into several automated technologies, implementation strategies, shopfloor training tips, and even the untapped power of automated coolant delivery.

Founded in 2001, PMTS reconvenes in April 2025 to celebrate its 13th biennial event for precision machining pros. Mark your calendar now and plan to join the precision machined parts community when we once again gather in person to share challenges and insights, see new technology solutions and learn about process innovations you can take back and immediately put into use in your own shop. The Precision Machining Technology Show is centered at the intersection of the industry's newest and most advanced product technologies, process innovations, business development prospects and personal career growth opportunities.

The tool crib is the backbone of any machine shop — without the right tools, nothing moves forward. While most ERP systems overlook the tool crib, ProShop integrates it seamlessly with CNC programming, job planning, scheduling and more. Join this webinar for an exclusive look at how Roush Yates Manufacturing Solutions leverages ProShop to document tool requirements, sync tool demand from CAM software and efficiently manage the tool crib and work instructions. Discover how ProShop transforms the tooling workflow to maximize efficiency and precision.

How tousebore gaugepdf

Many dial indicators have a very short measuring range and thus are more apt to be used as a comparative device — comparing the part to a known master. However, dial indicators with a long range can cross over to become a measuring instrument and directly read the size of the part over the reference surface.

CCAI is offering a comprehensive Industrial Finishing Safety Seminar developed by industry experts well-versed in safety for finishing operations.  This day-and-a-half seminar focuses on NFPA 33, the Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials and will deliver important and critical information on how to safely operate an industrial finishing line. Topics Covered: An introduction to safety Overview and definitions General requirements and electrostatic spray equipment Ventilation Storage handling and distribution Fire protection Operations, maintenance and training Drying and curing Liquid and powder coatings Authority Having Jurisdiction panel discussion Who Should Attend? Manufacturing, staff and environmental engineers (industrial health & safety) Lead painters Maintenance leads and personnel Finishing equipment designers System controls and project engineers Facility managers Finishing industry distributors Date: Tuesday, March 11 and Wednesday, March 12 Time:  Tuesday - 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM and Wednesday 8:00 AM - Noon Location: Sames 45001 5 Mile Road Plymouth, MI 48170 Registration Fee: CCAI Members: $599  /  Non-Members: $750 Registration Fee Includes: Classroom instruction; lunch on day one; a certificate of completion; and a printed copy of the NFPA 33 Standard for Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials. Registration: CLICK HERE to register. Space is limited.

Pacon Mfg, Inc. has not rested on its laurels as the 2020 Top Shop Honoree for Shopfloor Practices and Performance. In the years since, it has refined its processes to continue excelling in a volatile market.

Entrepreneur Scott Colosimo found early success in China producing parts for his Cleveland-based motorcycle company in the mid-2000s. This is the story of how IP theft issues overwhelmed the business, prompting Colosimo and his team to start over from scratch — and move production back to the United States.

GF Machining Solutions is the world’s leading provider of machine tools, diverse technical solutions and services to manufacturers of precision ...READ MORE

You’re nearly done – but remember to re-grease your bearings before you put them back together! Make sure the bearings are completely dry before you do this. You should only need a little lubricant – 2-3 drops is usually enough to get all the balls in the bearing covered.

Join Soraluce’s online event to discover advanced manufacturing solutions developed to tackle the challenges of machining large lightweight aluminum and composite components as well as large molds and dies. Soraluce’s new Dynamic Line, featuring High Rail Gantry Machines, is engineered for exceptional dynamic performance, precision and cutting power. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about this groundbreaking technology firsthand. Meet Soraluce’s Dynamic Line: HGA: a machine with a large work envelope oriented to the machining of light materials, such as aluminum or composite materials that are typical in the aerospace sector HGP: a machine of smaller overall dimensions (in terms of working area) but with extraordinary dynamic performance, oriented to mold and die sector HGR: a very versatile machine with high cutting capacity that’s ideal for a wide range of applications, such as molds and dies or components for capital equipment In this application-focused webinar, you'll learn how Soraluce's new Dynamic Line featuring High Rail Gantry Milling Machines were designed to tackle a wide range of machining challenges from lightweight materials like aluminum and composites used in aerospace to heavy-duty components such as large format molds and dies. Agenda:  High rail design: discover the fundamental benefits of high-rail gantry architecture that make them ideal for high-volume metal removal rates on large components Accuracy, dynamics and cutting power: learn about thermal stability technology and rigidity for extreme accuracy, high-speed cutting in terms of acceleration and speeds and high cutting power capability 5-axis machining: discover a wide variety of 5-axis milling heads, ranging from those based on electrospindles to mechanical spindles Custom solutions: explore Soraluce’s innovative approach to machine customization, including flexible workspaces, head change systems, and advanced accessories like vacuum clamping and dust extraction systems

New U.S.-based event announced in 2021 finally debuts next year: focuses on complete additive manufacturing value chain. More at formnextchicago.com.

Determining whether to use high-density fixtures or to simplify workholding requires a deeper look into the details of your parts and processes.

How can shops can make informed decisions using data-driven feedback to improve shopfloor efficiency and profitability? And how will these technologies differ between high- and low-volume production?

In the latest episode of our View From My Shop series, MMS Editor-in-Chief Brent Donaldson visited the JN Shapiro Watches headquarters and production facility where Founder Joshua Shapiro—a history teacher turned watchmaker—realized his dream of "making a watch from scratch and everything in it."

Not only can Gelsight’s tactile sensor detect and evaluate defects, but it can also measure part features, surface roughness and even contamination.

Dry the grip tape thoroughly – it’s hard to clean grip tape while it’s wet! You can use paper towels for this, but there’s a risk that these will break apart and get caught in the grain of the tape. Other options are a clean rag – you could even use a hairdryer to make sure the surface is really dry.

Ever wonder what sets Top Shops apart from the competition? Dive into their award-winning practices and explore behind-the-scenes strategies for operational excellence.

The Automated Shop Conference (TASC) will give shops of all sizes and production volumes key insights and practical guidance on how to implement automation.

Differential gaging measures using two devices, which has advantages over standard, comparative measurements using a single sensing head. These include the ability to measure size without regard to position.

Take a look inside James Engineering, a high-end CNC Deburring OEM that became a job shop when they decided to produce their own parts in-house.

Part of Major Tool’s 52,000 square-foot building expansion includes the installation of this new Waldrich Coburg Taurus 30 vertical machining center.

So your wheels are sparkling clean – what’s left? Your skateboard’s surface is covered in sticky-backed sandpaper known as grip tape, and any skater knows how dirty that surface can get. Here’s how to get that grip tape clean:

Learn more about the variety of technology and machinery Hwacheon Machinery America, Inc. is featuring at its IMTS 2024 booth.

AccuRounds has created synergy between culture and technology, driving a commitment to customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.

The latest episode “Made in the USA” podcast explores a company that uses collaborative robots, one of the key tools helping US machine shops and other manufacturers compete with lower cost countries by automating production.

That’s it – your grip tape should be good as new! If your clean grip tape still isn’t giving you the purchase you’re used to, just remember that grip tape doesn’t last forever – you’ll have to replace it eventually. Now that you know how to clean grip tape, you should be able to make it last a lot longer!

AI technology isn’t just a concept for the future—it’s here now, ready to transform your estimating process with the new AI BOM builder in JobBOSS². In this first-launch webinar, discover how AI can revolutionize bill of materials (BOM) entry in your shop, saving time, reducing errors and boosting efficiency. In this session, ECI will review how to use AI to build BOMs through a powerful feature that automates the extraction and input of BOM data from PDFs, Excel spreadsheets and images, all within JobBOSS². You'll have the opportunity to watch a live demonstration of the AI BOM builder in action — showcasing its ability to reduce BOM entry time from hours to mere minutes — thereby allowing you to focus on more strategic tasks. Additionally, you will learn about the real-world benefits of AI-driven BOM entry, including the minimization of manual errors, enhanced accuracy, and streamlined estimating processes — all of which can provide your shop with an immediate competitive edge. Finally, there will be a Q&A session with experts, giving you the chance to ask questions and find out how to integrate AI effectively. Agenda:  Experience AI in action in a real-world manufacturing setting Discover how the AI BOM builder can immediately impact your shop’s efficiency and productivity Get hands-on insights on implementing AI to streamline your operations

How touse a digitalbore gauge

When first using a dial indicator, it is wise to give it the once over before putting it into use. Holding the dial indicator in your hand, press the rack to ensure it is moving smoothly and not binding or sticking. Then start to take a closer look at it. The dial will have the graduation value printed on it — such as 0.001 inch. Slowly move the plunger in and observe the rotation of the hand. Most indicators will rotate clockwise (indicating a larger value with inward rack movement).

Lee Wimmer invited us to tour his second-generation family-owned machine shop in Perkasie, PA. This video explores the production processes behind precision-machined parts for both Wimmer Custom Cycle and LS Wimmer Machine Co., and shows how ingenuity and determination are still at the heart of American manufacturing. Today, both companies are now managed by Wimmer’s three sons.

Conical barrel cutters have grown in popularity thanks to the large stepovers that reduce the time needed for some finishing processes, but advanced CAM systems can dramatically improve their usefulness.

Adding pallet systems brought Mach Machine success and additional productivity. The shop has since furthered its automation goals while adding new capabilities.

As production tolerances become ever tighter and the error margin for measurement results shrinks, manufacturers must consider thermal fluctuations in their inspection processes.

The new space includes a showroom, office spaces and an auditorium that will enhance its work with its technical partners.

TopSwiss Micro Boring Solid tooling and KCU25B turning inserts are well suited for the small parts and medical machining space.

FANUC’s IMTS 2024 booth includes real-time demonstrations that show the abilities of its equipment, including robots, controllers and machine tools.

In this webinar, director of manufacturing Phil Linscheid will discuss how Hamilton Company has transformed its manufacturing operations with real-time production data. Learn how Phil and his team have increased throughput five times since 2017, while simultaneously improving production efficiency. Phil will share his journey over the past few years making strategic decisions to grow the machine shop’s impact as well as how his team uses MachineMetrics to improve production visibility, automate cycle time tracking, increase machine uptime and enable accurate quoting and planning. Agenda: Enabling production visibility in Nevada’s largest machine shop Improving quoting, planning and scheduling with accurate cycle times The importance of integrating shop floor data with operational systems

High-pressure carbon dioxide coolant can dramatically improve the production rate of titanium parts while leaving no residue — an excellent fit for medical machining.

Use something thin and sharp, like a pin, to gently pop the shields from your skateboard bearings. If your bearing shields are made of rubber, you’ll need to be careful not to puncture them or bend the metal ring that helps them hold their shape. If they’re made of metal, there should be a C-shaped clip holding them in place – get your pin under this and gently remove the clip, and the shield should come away.

By focusing machine tending on pallets rather than individual parts, KAD Models has automated its high-mix, low-volume workload — and thrived as a result.

The digital landscape is evolving fast — are you ready for what’s ahead? Join SYSPRO Americas and Sam Gupta of ElevatIQ for exclusive insights into the key trends driving digital transformation in 2025. This webinar is perfect for business leaders, IT professionals and decision-makers across industries looking to prepare for the future. Whether you’re modernizing operations or staying ahead of industry disruptions, these trends will help shape your strategy for 2025 and beyond. Agenda:  AI and automation Geopolitical shifts and cybersecurity risks Collaboration and data integration Sustainability and energy efficiency

Rego-Fix’s PowRgrip tooling system has expanded over the past 20 years to incorporate a wider range of tool sizes, as well as automation.

In the latest episode of our View From My Shop series, MMS Editor-in-Chief Brent Donaldson visited the JN Shapiro Watches headquarters and production facility where Founder Joshua Shapiro—a history teacher turned watchmaker—realized his dream of "making a watch from scratch and everything in it."

If you’re a regular skateboarder, you know how great it feels when your board responds to your movements – and you know that that feeling relies on your board being in good working order. A build-up of dirt and mud in your board’s bearings can keep the wheels from spinning as freely as they should, for example, and grimy grip tape can cause you to slip and lose your balance while you’re riding. Knowing how to clean skateboard wheels, grip tape and bearings isn’t just a cosmetic matter – it’s important for your safety too.

Dial indicators are not apt to ride into the sunset quite yet. So, when you come across one, pick it up and get familiar with what it is telling you.

How to reada dialbore gauge0.005

Misapplication of these important CNC features will result in wasted time, wasted or duplicated effort and/or wasted material.

The L.S. Starrett Co. has been manufacturing precision measurement tools in Athol, Massachusetts, since 1880. Attention to U.S. manufacturing often focuses on reshoring manufacturing from other countries, but Starrett never left. The facility in Athol employs hundreds and produces thousands of tools that remain vital for measurement in machining and other fields.

Pacon Mfg, Inc. has not rested on its laurels as the 2020 Top Shop Honoree for Shopfloor Practices and Performance. In the years since, it has refined its processes to continue excelling in a volatile market.

There is always a fresh set of users who may be seeing a dial indicator for the first time. Even though these indicators are relatively basic tools, new users require some knowledge to read them properly.

Use a rag or an old toothbrush to scrub any obvious mud and grime from your wheels, then place them into a bucket of hot soapy water and leave to soak for ten minutes.

Measuring cylinderborewith telescopinggauge

How to reada dialbore gauge.0001

The MFG Meeting brings together manufacturing technology industry leaders to address key business challenges and provide actionable solutions. Sessions cover a wide range of topics, including workforce, economics, supply chain, leadership, politics, and more. This unique meeting experience provides unparalleled opportunities to network with executives from companies that make, sell, service, and support MT. These peers and competitors will learn from each other, build long-lasting connections, and share insights that will benefit their business.

Adding pallet systems brought Mach Machine success and additional productivity. The shop has since furthered its automation goals while adding new capabilities.

CNC Engineering, Inc. specializes in enhancing CNC machine tools to boost manufacturing productivity. Our key services include: - CNC Retrofits a...READ MORE

Thousands of people visit our Supplier Guide every day to source equipment and materials. Get in front of them with a free company profile.

Mike Lynch has been a CNC programming teacher for three decades, in addition to being the longest-running columnist in Modern Machine Shop history, providing generations of machinists with expert insight into the art of programming parts. With this issue being Mike’s last, we wanted to highlight his career and what it means for the industry.

Dial indicators provide good value for their resolution. With a glance, one can quickly determine if the part is larger or smaller than the master setting and by a degree of how much.

Dip a brass or other soft wire brush in water and scrub the grip tape, working in sections. This will loosen any ingrained dirt and bring it to the surface to be picked up by the rubber eraser.

Each year Products Finishing partners with thousands of finishing operations in the U.S. to celebrate National Surface Finishing Day (NSFD) on the first Wednesday in March. NSFD is designed to celebrate and showcase the industry to trade schools, businesses, officials and media, as well as to celebrate employees and staff. The overarching goal of NSFD is to bring further awareness to the important roles plating and coating facilities play in their communities. Facilities are encouraged to host events and work with local media to build awareness about the contributions made by the surface finishing industry. For a helpful guide to reaching out to media outlets, download the NSFD toolkit here. How can you celebrate? Share your company’s story Hold an open house where the public can check out your facility –— either in person or virtual Offer student shop tours to local trade schools Invite local elected officials to visit and get to know your staff Celebrate your employees Share news about what you’re doing on social media and use the hashtag #NationalSurfaceFinishingDay or #NSFD

In this episode of Made in the USA, several executives and senior staff at Hardinge give their first-person account of how they formulated the plan to shift the manufacturing of its milling and turning product lines from its Taiwan plant to its plant in Elmira, New York, the major challenges they encountered and the rewards that made it worth the effort.

Use a socket wrench to unscrew the axel nuts from either side of each wheel before gently removing the wheels from the board. (Make sure you keep any nuts, bolts or washers together so that you can find them all for reassembly when you’re done!)

When it comes to utilizing the spindle’s power, there is a lot of headroom at the upper limits, provided it’s in short bursts. Be mindful of your time at these loads so you don’t stall out.

Returning to the analog watch comparison, with this dial configuration, users will need to adjust the gaging application and indicator to have the master zero setting point at the 12 o’clock position or “0” on the dial. Most dial indicators are then used in a comparative mode using a balanced dial, with minus (-) readings on the left of 0 and plus (+) readings on the right of 0.

No matter what your workholding application, automation always makes sense. Kurt Workholding helps you pick the right tool for the automation job — whether it be a single-vise setup or multiple vises holding large work pieces. This webinar will cover automation solutions using pneumatic, hydraulic and electronic actuation. Agenda:  Most common types of vise automation solutions How to pick the right type of automation for an application Key differences between custom workholding and off-the-shelf automation solutions

Fastems delivers intelligent factory automation solutions around cutting machine tools and related processes. We are a family-owned business with 40 y...READ MORE

If the surface is really dirty, start by using a piece of rubber cement pickup eraser – sold in skate shops as “grip gum” – to remove as much surface dirt as possible.

To read this 0.001 dial indicator, having a balance dial and plus on the right is fairly straightforward. From the starting point (0 reading), to read the deviation, simply multiply the number of grads by .001 inch. For example, if the hand of the indicator was on the 20, you would multiply 20 times 0.001 inch to equal 0.020 inch. It’s easy to see that every ten grads equal 0.01 inch, and reading the values fast starts to get easy.

To clean grip tape, use a soft wire brush dipped in water to gently scrub, bringing any embedded grime to the surface. Dry carefully with a rag or a hairdryer before using a piece of rubber cement pickup (also called “grip gum” or “crêpe rubber”) to remove the surface dirt.

Clean the wheels by first brushing off embedded dirt and grime, then soaking them in hot soapy water before scrubbing them gently with an old toothbrush. Dry thoroughly.

The wheels on your board tend to be the easiest part to clean! Here’s how to clean skateboard wheels safely and effectively:

Leaders in the manufacture of advanced technology solutions including Multi-Tasking, HYBRID Multi-Tasking, 5-axis, milling, turning, CNC controls and ...READ MORE

So far, Made in the USA has looked into system-wide effects of broken supply chains, automation, skilled workforce issues and our perception of manufacturing jobs — examining each topic through a prism of individual experiences. For this final episode for Season 1, let’s look at one more system-wide question and bring it back to personal perspectives: Is there today a new dawn, a new moment for American manufacturing?

Chiron Group combines the best of both worlds at IMTS 2024, featuring live demonstrations of their Micro5 and Mill 2000 machines, alongside a cutting-edge virtual showroom. This innovative approach allows visitors to explore Chiron’s full product lineup without the logistical challenges of transporting large equipment.

When Puneet and Neelam Neotia moved from India to the United States several years ago, they brought with them a family background in manufacturing and CNC machining. Now the couple is working to get their startup machine shop off the ground, sourcing new customers and getting the word out about their shop in Clarksville, Indiana. The couple — proud to publicize their "Made in the USA" parts — is leveraging family connections and manufacturing capabilities back in India, but not in the way that some people assume.

Ulendo is working to apply its vibration compensation algorithm to robots. This application is more complex than its initial market of FFF 3D printers, but could result in faster, cheaper robots.

How to readmicrometer

PTXPO 2025 is a comprehensive showcase of cutting-edge technologies and innovations within the plastics molding industry. Join fellow molders, moldmakers, brand owners, OEMs and their full suite of suppliers in Rosemont, IL for three days of non-stop networking, education and business development opportunities.

While you’re waiting for your wheel bearings to dry, swirl the shields around in the solution as well and wipe away any dirt from them.

Lee Wimmer invited us to tour his second-generation family-owned machine shop in Perkasie, PA. This video explores the production processes behind precision-machined parts for both Wimmer Custom Cycle and LS Wimmer Machine Co., and shows how ingenuity and determination are still at the heart of American manufacturing. Today, both companies are now managed by Wimmer’s three sons.

The TMS-2G system enables the operator to change the chuck in minutes accurately and securely, making it versatile for diverse metalworking requirements.

Clean the wheel bearings by gently popping them out of their shields with a pin or craft knife and soaking them in a solvent solution like acetone or isopropyl alcohol. Leave them for a few minutes, then swirl and tap them in the solution, removing as much grime as possible. Wipe the shields down with your solvent too. Remember to re-grease the bearings and shields before reattaching with a grease or oil suitable for skateboard shields.

Place the bearings, ball part down, in your bowl of solvent. Let them sit for a few minutes, and then tap them gently on the bottom of the bowl to remove any embedded grit. Lay each clean bearing, ball side down, on a clean paper towel to dry.

Gently pry the wheel bearings from the wheels – these will need to be cleaned separately (we’ll get on to cleaning skateboard bearings in a minute).

Improving throughput in grinding takes more than direct increases to material removal rate. It also requires careful consideration of the factors behind the operation’s stability.

Even before inspection, Datanomix and Caron Engineering’s TMAC AI can extrapolate part quality from cut information. This information also helps shops push their tool life to its limits.

AccuRounds has created synergy between culture and technology, driving a commitment to customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.

Now you can put your clean bearings and wheels back together, and reattach them to the skateboard. Check that the wheels are spinning as they ought to before you ride again, though!

Determining whether to use high-density fixtures or to simplify workholding requires a deeper look into the details of your parts and processes.

Cleaning skateboard bearings can seem a little more complicated than cleaning the wheels, but it’s simple once you know how. Your skateboard’s bearings need to be lubricated with grease or oil to function properly. That means that soap and water won’t do the trick here – you’ll need a solvent, such as acetone, isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol to get them clean – and you’ll need to re-grease them once you’ve finished.

Dial indicators — also known as dial gages, clocks, comparators or just indicators — are widely used as basic gages for measuring linear dimensions. Dial indicators have been around since the early 1900s. While digital indicators may be gathering more attention recently, dial indicators are unlikely to disappear any time soon. Dial indicators provide good value for their resolution. Experienced users like them because the analog dial gives a sense of direction and scale. With a glance, one can quickly determine if the part is larger or smaller than the master setting and by a degree of how much. Almost no thinking is involved. With the added capability of tolerance hands, the user can simply check if the indicator’s needle is within the tolerance bands and then move on to the next part.

Additive manufacturing provides new ways of making medical implants, but its impact is greater than this. How 3D printing is changing medical manufacturing and improving patient outcomes.