Monthly Archives : November 2017

air compressor

Who makes the best mid-size compressor?

Picking a decent air compressor depends on the project you’re working on, and if the unit should be convenient. On the off chance that a compressor unit can deal with the scheduled task, you’ll be inclined to work with that specific model instead of a massive, and difficult to deal with the model.

Most of the compressors on our list of preferred models are sufficiently small-sized and easily stored under a workbench, yet efficient for some tasks. Below are some of the best US manufacturing companies that have produced reliable compressors over the years.

Dewalt Heavy Duty PSI

The popular Dewalt brand has continuously manufactured in the US reasonably priced air compressors. The heavy-duty PSI is an oil-free model with a 12amps motor and has a flexible startup to reduce overworking the breaker. The 36-pound air compressor is portable and quite slim at only 12.5inches; therefore, it fits in any tight compartment.

The standard manufacturing design in the US brand compressor comes in black and yellow colors. It is slightly underpowered and cannot run consistently with the reduced power. Users may only use it for smaller jobs to avoid damage and more complications other than aging. It’s suitable for short to mid-sized jobs.

Porter Cable PC Pancake Compressor

The Porter air compressor is one of the least expensive air compressors on the list, and the lightest, weighing at only 26 pounds. Due to its compact size, it’s easy to use and store. With just 135 PSI, the Portable Cable PC compressor requires low maintenance since it runs on a 12v motor and puts out an impressive power. It is an oil-free pump with a longer life and minimum problems, even in cold weather.

However, this air compressor produces the loudest noise on the list, with an output of 82Dba. It is a reliable compressor for anyone in search of a stable US manufactured equipment made by top engineers from some of the best mechanical engineering schools. It offers long lasting service, if well taken care of.

Senco Horsepower Peak

Senco CNC manufacturing produces low priced portable compressors. This 20-pound Senco compressor handles small jobs and, it’s incredibly silent at 73 dBA and one complete horsepower. It runs ½ power at its peak to complete a task. The accessories include a ¼ quick disconnect coupler, individual tank gauges, and synchronized output pressure.

The manufacturers offer a one-year warranty of assurance. Long-term use degrades the covering around the handle, but it doesn’t deteriorate its overall usefulness. The manufacturing skill on this unit is flawless and performs best if handled correctly.

Makita Big Bore Compressor

This is a powerful, relatively low priced air compressor. It has an iron pump with big pistons and cylinder, a combination that provides peak performance when in motion over extended periods. The large Makita compressor with a 1,720-RPM pump is quiet and performs well even at lower RPM.

It comes with a one-year warranty, and, manufactured with a solid cooler running pump that lasts for several years. The 2.6-gallon tank weighed 52 pounds and labeled at 130 PSI with a ¼-inch universal quick coupler, which is easy to use. It’s listed as compact, but the manufacturing specs make it mid-range at 52 pounds. You need about 20 seconds to refill, so it’s still powerful considering the size that it comes in, though it cannot handle specific tasks and it lasts a very long time.

automation

What is Powering the New Manufacturing Plants?

CNC manufacturing is evolving at a rate that is faster than anticipated. Today, regardless of whether the source of power is wind, water, gas, solar, or steam, automation procedures and the latest technologies in CNC machining are essential in manufacturing industries. Here is a detailed view of what powers new manufacturing plants:

Water Power

This kind of power sources requires different turbines which as designed to produce efficient power in water power plants. When it comes to machining in these facilities, speed and accuracy are essential. Water can only generate productive electricity if it is made to flow at high speed, meaning that turbines with have not been appropriately reinforced can crack under pressure.

Wind Power

Whenever wind energy is used, the plant needs to have superior performance capabilities. Wind power, when used for mechanical engineering processes, for instance, requires gears and systems that are not only precise but also very efficient. The equipment needs to be highly flexible, and it also needs to react to the slightest changes in wind pressure without compromising the performance of the power plant.

Across all the states in the US, there are more than 500 manufacturing plants that manufacture equipment used to generate wind power. There is a lot of demand in the sector by manufacturing facilities.

Steam and Gas

Geothermal power stations use these forms of forms of energy to generate power. Steam and gas power comes with a lot of pressure, so the manufacturing processes using these resources for energy need to have turbines and equipment that can remain functional even when subjected to high stress and tension.

Gas, being a non-renewable source of power, is not as popular as the renewable sources. Manufacturing companies, however, still use gas because of its speed and efficiency in producing electricity.

Solar

Solar energy is the most efficient source of power currently in use in USA manufacturing. All countries around the world, and even in manufacturing schools, solar power is perfecting processes that have been in existence for years.

Manufacturing in the USA and the rest of the world is quickly embracing CNC automation procedures. To power these plants and these processes, companies are moving towards better power sources. Wind, water, solar, and steam are just some of them, but these four are the best and most efficient sources of power for new manufacturing plants.

The most manufacturing in the world today is done in China eve through for a time, the United States held the number one position. The US, however, still holds the number position when it comes to providing quality manufacturing processes.

Monitoring the Environment

Power generation needs to be by the laws of the environment. Power plants, in sourcing for ways of energy generation, need to be wary of the effects that they have on nature and the well-being of the people around them. Using natural sources of power like wind, water, and solar is best as they have minimum effects on the environment.

These energy sources are also renewable, meaning that manufacturing plants can reduce wasted during their processes. Although some plants still use non-renewable sources that are harmful to the environment, manufacturing processes, technologies and automation are making it much easier for these companies to switch to sources of power that do more good than harm to the surrounding areas.

original equipment manufacturer

What Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) Stand to Benefit from Tag Team Manufacturing

Are you an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) in search of a state of the art technology in machine CNC precision? Tag Team manufacturing is your genuinely supportive manufacturing partner. The company is a modern machine shop that is continuously advancing in technology to provide the best solution to the needs of the current manufacturing industry. Their products are not only of high quality, but made to yield high outputs. Tag Team understands the challenges facing today’s production industry and strives towards providing long-term solutions. Solutions that not only reduces the cost of production, but also maintains the high quality of products manufactured promptly.

Introducing Two DMG Mori NHX5000 Generation 2 Machines
Recently, they added two DMG Mori NHX5000 Generation 2 machines in their manufacturing facility. One of the machines has 2 pallets while the other has 21 pallets. If you are in need of a speedy turn around, the new DMG Mori Machines will help increase the rate of production. Developed with the latest spindle, the machines guarantee more products being produced than before with un-compromised production precision. The machine parts are perfectly manufactured to required specifications eliminating the need for programming adjustments. Loaded with 21 pallets, one of the NHX5000’s can operate throughout the weekend lights out. Its structure is not only optimized for improved static performance, but also for dynamic rigidity.

Celebrating Sawyer
It’s been over a year since Sawyer joined Tag Team and has been a pillar of strength in the production facility. Various things make him stand out. He can carry out multiple tasks with seven degrees of freedom. His sensors are top notch giving him precise movements and positioning. Moreover, the high degree of accuracy coupled with his 8lb lifting ability makes Sawyer safe to work with fellow human coworkers. Sawyer uses less space compared to other robots; his arm can fit through any of their CNC equipment, allowing him to help with the machining of smaller parts. Finally, his integrated visual interface with robotic hands makes him collaborative and a team player. What original equipment manufacturer would not want to meet Sawyer?

Aluminum Billiard Line
In the manufacturing business, quality control and marketing are paramount. After several years of research, Tag Team developed an aluminum billiard rack line named Delta-13 to address the industries challenges. The billiard accessories are made from high-quality aluminum. The billiard racks guarantee durability and maintaining high aesthetic qualities. With over 10 years of experience in the billiard market, the company continues to create high quality, custom and visually pleasing USA billiard equipment.

Undoubted Experience
The Colorado based company has an indisputable team bringing a combined 140 years of experience in the manufacturing industry. It takes pride in having 6 employees who have worked with them for more than 10 years since its founding in 1987. Because of high repute in the industry, the company has managed to work with the same companies for more than the 30 years.

Customer Relations
Tag Team takes pride in offering quality products and services to their clients. It takes two to tango, customers speak, Tag Team listens then strives to provide quality services promptly. Products are not only delivered promptly, but guaranteed high outputs without compromising on quality. With proven skills and ability to work with engineers from all over the US, customer’s interests are secured and guaranteed. The company can produce on a large scale with competitive pricing. If you are an original equipment manufacturer, you should contact Tag Team Manufacturing today for all of your CNC manufacturing solutions.

CNC machinist

How long does it take to become a CNC Machinist?

Anyone who uses machine tools to modify or make parts as a profession is a machinist. However, a person who has been properly trained to become a CNC machinist can do much more. A qualified machinist should be able to use CNC (Computer Numerical Control) to execute his/her duties. CNC refers to the process of using computers to control machines. It’s the automation of machine tools via machine control commands to execute pre-programmed sequences.

What Does a Machinist Do?

The terms CNC manufacturing, CNC automation, and CNC machining all allude to the use of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) via programming to increase quality and consistency of the product. A CNC machinist can operate a wide range of machinery in the creation of parts and products that are usually very specific. Machinists operate specialized tools to create precision metal parts. They repair, modify, and fabricate mechanical equipment.

A normal day in the life of a machinist includes:

– The use of manual and computer controlled machinery i.e. operate, set up, and program the CNC Machinery

– Making sure that the machinery is properly maintained.

– Operating tools such as grinders, milling machines, etc.

– Calculating where to bore or cut using the right tools for each job.

To become a CNC machinist, it’s good to complete a training program in one of the US manufacturing schools, or better still, one of the most reputable mechanical engineering schools in the land. Keep in mind that formal training is not a must – there a lot of self-taught machinists out there, but it’s strongly suggested that you acquire some form of formal training to effectively and safely discharge your duties. Courses like mechanical engineering include a pretty comprehensive machining training program. Many businesses with interests in manufacturing in the US do hire machinists.

Types of Machinists

Primarily, there are three types of CNC machinists. They are operating machinists, set up machinists, and programming machinists. An operation machinist is responsible for the day to day functioning of the machines – they are the operators. Set up machinists are tasked with the job of making sure that everything is in working order. They are in charge of monitoring the equipment, adjusting offsets, and performing other tasks needed to maintain smooth operations. Some machinists specialize in writing CNC programs and modify existing programs in response to glitches encountered during test runs. These machinists are known as programming machinists.

Becoming a Machinist

As stated earlier in the article, to become a professional CNC machinist, it’s prudent to acquire proper training and certification. If it’s possible, its best to start preparations to become a machinist early. In their training, machinists get several years of technical instruction and on-site training. Training can be acquired via community or technical colleges, vocational schools, and apprenticeship programs. Often, you will be required to have a high school diploma.

Typically, becoming a machinist takes between 1 to 2 years for entry level roles including a minimum of 8 weeks of technical training and over 1,500 hours of on the job training each year. Here’s what you need to do to become a machinist in the United States:

– Enrol for preparatory classes. A high school diploma is the minimum requirement to becoming a machinist. You can get the necessary training — in this case, a degree, usually taking up to two years — from a technical college

– Complete a formal apprenticeship. You can work with a local manufacturer, local union, or your school to look for available opportunities. An apprenticeship is an entry level position where you can stay for a year or two — depending on your training and tenacity — before moving up to an operator position.

– Get NIMS certification. A National Institute for Metalworking Skills (NIMS) certification isn’t a requirement, but its recommended for aspiring machinists. After completing your apprenticeship, get one of those. You will be required to sit for a performance-based written and practical exam to get certification.

The last and final step to becoming a machinist is putting your skills to work. You can do that by getting a job at a manufacturer specializing in making parts for OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers). Alternatively, you can choose to work for yourself if you have the business skills. Depending on your financial ability, you can either buy an existing Machine Shop or purchase a machine to handle some small jobs from your home or garage.

cnc machines

The Different Types of CNC Machines

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) refers to how engineers and operators control and operate production tools using a computer program. These machines use a language known as g-code, which guides the machine on how to mold, cut, shape, grind, or melt different materials such as wood, plastic, or metal. There are various types of CNC machines in the market, with some of them being prominent due to their wide range of uses. Below are some of the available types of CNC machines.


Milling Machine

Often, milling machines are retrofitted with CNC technology whereby the process involving removal of all mechanisms built into the machine making it easy to operate. Some of the mechanisms which are removed include Digital Read Out electronics and hand wheels. Also, the old lead screw is replaced with high accuracy ball screws, and new mounts are built to enable mounting of the actuators to the machine.

Lathes
These machines rapidly rotate the material on a spindle. During the rotation, the material is pressed against a grinding or carving tool which cuts it into the desired shape. Lathes are mostly used to cut symmetrical objects such as spheres, cones, or cylinders.

Router
The CNC router is a very common type of machinery which is built exclusively to be operated using CNC technology. Typically, this machine has no human interface other than the computer. Routers are used in the production of large dimension parts of wood, metal sheets and plastics. They are mostly designed in a three-axis Cartesian coordinate which allows cutting in three dimensions. However, there are routers which designed in 4, 5, or 6-axis which are mostly used to cut prototype models and complex shapes.

CNC Plasma Cutter
Plasma cutters are very similar to the routers both in size and setup. However, CNC plasma cutters don’t require a powerful setup since they fly above the table with a plasma torch rather than dragging a spinning tool in the material. Mostly, the plasma cutters are designed to cut two-dimensional profile shapes into sheet metal.

CNC Laser Cutter
The laser cutters use the same principle as the plasma cutters with the only difference being the fact that a powerful laser is used to do the cutting rather than plasma torch. These cutters are good for cutting metal, plastic, and wood. Depending on the material being cut, a different strength of laser is used since every material has a unique thickness and hardness.

3D Printer
This printer has a similar setup to the CNC router and laser cutter. However, unlike these machines, the printer does additive machining rather than subtractive machining. Instead of beginning with a piece of materials and removing bits to attain the desired shape, the printer starts with a blank canvas and builds the object layer-by-layer. The printer does this either by using a laser which quickly solidifies a liquid or powder or by using an extruder which pushes material out of a tiny nozzle.


Pick and place Machine

This machine has a similar setup as the laser cutter or CNC router. The difference is that instead of cutting material, the machine has many small nozzles which pick up electrical components using a vacuum. Afterwards, the machine places the electrical component on a printed circuit board hence getting the name pick and place. These machines move very fast and can place hundreds or thousands of electrical components. Pick and place machines are used to make devices such as tablets, computer motherboards and other devices which have a printed motherboard.

In a nutshell, there are different types of CNC machines which are designed with the aim of easing the operating process. These machines replace the human interface with a computer program thus all the operations are controlled using a computer.