Call us: 303-841-5697
Join The Team Apply Today

Tag : cnc machining

31 Jan20180
Precision Machining

Precision Machining for Medical and Aerospace Industries

CNC Automation Manufacturing, Manufacturing Process, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Most industries are concerned about quality machining for manufacturing industries. In the same way, precision machining for medical and aerospace industries is very important. And did you know that aerospace and medical machined parts should meet certain criteria of quality and tolerance for them to perform efficiently?

Tag Team manufacturing company has been in the manufacturing business for a considerable amount of time. We started this company in the year 1987, and since then, we have continued to grow and develop our experiences as well as processes. For that reason, we can produce even the most challenging and intricate medical and aerospace industry machining parts.

Why work with Tag Team Manufacturing?

We have a team of specialized industry experts who are passionate and dedicated to their job as the core of our company have been with us 10+ years. When you reach out to us, one of our well trained and specialized staff members will attend to all your machining needs from blue print to completion.

Tag Team Manufacturing has access to a wide range of secondary vendor services as well as quality machining capabilities, and that gives an upper hand when it comes to producing demand products. Therefore, if you are looking for a company that can cater to all your needs, Tag Team is the place to be.

To make sure we deliver blue print specific designs, our team will review the design and discuss any questions before we begin your project. From there, our developed CNC automation and CNC precision machining will ensure that we deliver aerospace and medical machining that meet your expectations. You can rest assured that we will use all the available modern technology to craft what you need made.

Lastly, we have a quality department that ensures all products and services meet the required statutory, customer and regulatory standards. With this department in place, you can relax knowing that any product you get from us is of good quality. We always ensure that all the processes and procedures are followed to the later. In that way, we ensure that all the products have the right measurement and match your blue print exactly. Nothing leaves our facility without inspection.

CNC Machining services for medical Industries

The medical industry is very precise on what kind of machines they need regarding quality and design. Even the smallest machine parts are essential to the success of various lifesaving progresses in health care. Before we give you the end product, we always make sure that it meets your expectations and blue print 100% as the medical machines are very sensitive and are used for very crucial things.

CNC Machining services for aerospace industries

Tag Team Manufacturing has had extensive experience in CNC Machining of components for the aerospace industries for over 30 years now. We can produce even the smallest instrumental parts needed to kick off any project. We work with most of your alloys among other materials needed by the aerospace industry, including aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, brass and copper.

And just like in the medical industry, we always make sure every part made for aerospace meets your expectation and the specifications 100%. So, if you are looking for high precision machining in the aerospace industry, Tag team is the place to go.

Contact Us

If you are in need of quality and high tolerance precision machining for medical and aerospace industries, do not hesitate to contact us. We offer you quality products and services and at a competitive price and on time. Therefore, do not miss out on this opportunity, give us a call today at 303-841-5697.

24 Jan20180
Manufacturing Facility

5 Tips for Staying Safe and Healthy in the Manufacturing Facility

CNC Automation Manufacturing, Manufacturing Process, , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Ranging from poorly maintained tools to fatigued workers, manufacturing setting is riddled with hazards, both out in the open and some hidden. If you do not know a place to start checking out, then such risks may lead to injuries and sometimes death. Below are five tips to help you stay safe and healthy in a manufacturing facility.

1. Ensure Proper Use and Maintenance of Machinery and Equipment

The first step to ensure everyone is safe in a manufacturing setting is to ensure machinery and equipment are properly maintained. Failure to constantly ensure the equipment works properly can pose risks to every employee in the facility.

It is important to know that even tools with fail-safes are prone to malfunction if you do not do regular check-ups. To ensure proper functioning, ensure that the equipment undergoes regular inspection. Your employees should know how to check whether the equipment works optimally. Contacting a professional to inspect your equipment can help.

Proper use of manufacturing equipment will ensure that the machinery works well without posing any danger to those around the manufacturing facility. You should, therefore, ensure that only those qualified to handle a certain equipment are the only employees who work on it and handle it with professionalism.

2. Permanent Hazards Need Special Consideration

Numerous equipment in a manufacturing facility poses a risk to anyone regardless of whether they are functioning as required. Chemicals, for instance, will remain dangerous to anyone even when regular inspections are done. However, you can minimize these risks by labeling, and give every employee the right protective gear when handling these chemicals.

It is important to also clean spills. This will ensure that there are no health risks that are exposed to employees. Carefully cleaning up spills will ensure there is no gas emitted into the atmosphere. Some gases may pose a health risk as well as act as a respiratory irritant.

Wearing safety equipment while in a manufacturing facility is crucial. This will prevent any visitor, employers, managers, subcontractors, and contractors from hazards. For instance, wearing an eye protection such as goggles will help you prevent metal or chemical splash into your eyes.

3. Employees Should Undergo Regular Training

It is said that your firm is as safe as those people who work in it. Every employee should undergo training regularly on every contact they will be handling. You should make sure that they can spot warning signs such as burning wire smells, scraping or grinding noises, abnormal wobbles, or anything that may sound abnormal. If you find out any machine that is unsafe, then shut it down.

4. Sufficient First Aid

In case of an emergency, you need to have easy access to a first aid kit. Your manufacturing facility should be stocked with medical equipment including first aid kits for general purposes as well as those customized to meet the specific needs of your working environment.

You need to ensure every employee undergoes training to have at least some level of knowledge on how to use a first aid kit. In some cases, you will need to have your staff members specially trained to offer CPR, first aid as well as conduct a confined-space rescue.

5. Wear Proper Clothing

Having a protective gear in a manufacturing facility may not be the only preventive measure available. In fact, you should always wear proper clothing, not loose clothing that may be caught in or on the machines. Wearing a closed shoe is also an important part of ensuring you remain safe while in a manufacturing plant.

If every employee follows these tips, then your manufacturing facility will be a safe place for both your employees and those visiting.

03 Jan20180
us manufacturing trends

5 Trends in US Manufacturing

CNC Automation Manufacturing, Manufacturing Process, , , , , , , , ,

The trends of US manufacturing are often discussed, but not always understood by the general public. With the changes in technology as well as executive attitudes, it can be difficult to keep up with it all. It’s time to learn more about what’s being taught today in mechanical engineering schools, and how the industry has responded to each new change in the market.

More Automation

The time-consuming and error-prone processes of the past are becoming automated. They allow companies to produce more without increasing their budget, and they give workers a chance to hone their skills rather than waste time on rote tasks. Every country has seen some rate of automation when it comes to their manufacturing, but it’s the US that has really embraced the technology. The effects are felt not just on the production floor, but also in administrative functions as well.

A Rise in Precision

Manufacturing today is all about precision. Considering even one mistake in a process can lead to disastrous results, companies are more focused than ever on ensuring everything is done correctly the first time. For example, CNC automation can use past commands and actions to ensure future accuracy and success. CNC machinery can work with practically any material to cut shapes and create the perfect dimensions for the right end result. US manufacturing schools are so obsessed with precision, they’ve taken to using just one digital representation of the product they’re designing. From the materials needed to the compliance regulations to the dimensions of the product, companies are looking to decrease error by narrowing down the scope of the product to a single image.

Sharper Focus

Manufacturing companies are always trying to get more out of the resources they have, but many are also reevaluating their resources so they concentrate on what they do best. Whether a company specializes in CNC manufacturing, mechanical engineering, or factory work, they’re looking to trim away any excesses so their focus in as singular as possible. This may mean anything from leasing their office to increasing their global presence. They may even choose to outsource work that’s not strictly related to manufacturing, such as HR, payroll, and benefits.

Global Options

The globalization of manufacturing has become an undeniable trend in US manufacturing, as companies form networks of support from all around the world. Now companies can easily find clients, communicate with them, and then transfer their products around the world. The more people connect from around the world, the more opportunities can be discovered about how to increase efficiency without sacrificing the quality of the goods. Manufacturing in the USA has certainly not been the only sector to profit from these changes, but it’s one sector that has really taken advantage of the opportunities.

Increased Support

The machinery used in the manufacturing industry has never been better than it is today, but that doesn’t mean that it’s infallible or everlasting. As automation continues, manufacturers will need to find the right tools and the right support team that can help them through all their questions and concerns. Ideally, manufacturers should be looking at forging a relationship with a company who understands a variety of industries as well as the full scope of current and future trends. This type of mutually beneficial relationship tends to bring out the best in manufacturers today.

13 Dec20170
OEM Manufacturing

7 Incredibly Simple Hacks of Highly Successful leaders in Manufacturing

CNC Automation Manufacturing, Manufacturing Process, , , , , , , , , , ,

OEM manufacturing in the USA has changed continuously over the years, partially because of the significant technological advances. However, some of the core secrets of successful manufacturers remain constant. Consider the following incredibly simple hacks from highly successful leaders in manufacturing to achieve greater heights.

#1. Embrace the technology

Technology plays a significant role in the success of all businesses. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the latest tech innovations. One example of the technology that should be integrated is CNC automation. You can install robots to perform repetitive tasks and increase production while reducing costs. This will help your business to be leaner and more efficient.

#2. Reinvest in the business

Whether your firm utilizes expansive CNC machining or small hand tools, the equipment condition is vital in manufacturing operations. A successful manufacturer reinvests into the industry’s heart (the machinery that keeps it functional). Thus, Re-examine the servicing schedules and ensure that the machinery is performing at optimal levels. Avoid scheduling for maintenance only when the equipment fails or when they are not in use.

#3. Focus on service

Successful leaders in OEM manufacturing develop excellent levels of customer service to build loyalty. They field service queries from retailers or distributors when products are delayed or defective. Besides, they’re ready to answer to customers whenever faulty products enter the market. It is therefore essential that every CNC manufacturing firm makes a point of maintaining high service standards and evaluate service performance regularly.

#4. Have the right team at your disposal

Pay close attention to the people you hire in your manufacturing business because they can either make or break it. Besides being from the US manufacturing schools, you ought to figure out just how passionate a person is about working for the company. In addition, you should hire mechanical engineering professional staff from formal and certified mechanical engineering schools.

#5. Retain the best

Employee retention is crucial to ensuring manufacturing efficiency. While most workers view an employee benefits program as an incentive to remain on the job, the package can be an excellent source of motivation. If your employees aren’t motivated, production slows down, and your manufacturing firm might falter.

#6. Continuous improvement

For successful OEM manufacturing, you should view improvements in its entirety. Most manufacturers focus on improvements that entail the processes or products, and yet this is only one portion. To be devoted to development, evaluate every portion of the business because all parts make up a whole. For instance, you can consider offering safety training on the frequently changing regulations to keep your workers up to date with the latest trends.


#7. Communication

Successful OEM manufacturing firms value meaningful communication. That includes keeping employees updated on the procedures and products as well as having an open line for them to express their concerns. Regular meetings can be an excellent means of making sure that the employees get the information they require to carry out their tasks correctly. Furthermore, utilize technology to quickly bring them up-to-date with any developing changes. Correspondingly, supervisors should be available to the workers. If the employees can’t discuss safety concerns or improvement ideas, you might be missing on a wealth of information.

Bottom Line

As the global manufacturing sector grows, successful in-house operations rest on fundamental factors– keeping productivity up, morale high, and costs low. By paying attention to the above great tips, you can yield global dominance and be an example of how US manufacturing is remarkably resilient in the increasingly competitive economy.

At Tag Team, we pride ourselves on machining components for virtually all industries OEMs. With over thirty years expertise, our ability to collaborate with engineers in developing prototypes allows us to produce high-quality components at lower costs.

For more information, call us today at 303-841-5697 for a free quote!

29 Nov20170
air compressor

Who makes the best mid-size compressor?

CNC Automation Manufacturing, Manufacturing Process, , , , , , , , , ,

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.

15 Nov20170
original equipment manufacturer

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

CNC Automation Manufacturing, Manufacturing Process, , , , , , , ,

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.

01 Nov20170
cnc machines

The Different Types of CNC Machines

CNC Automation Manufacturing, Manufacturing Process, , , , , , ,

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.

25 Oct20170
NAFTA agreement

Is there hope for the manufacturing sector if the NAFTA agreement is not signed?

CNC Automation Manufacturing, , , , , , , ,

Recently, there have been debates on the issue of NAFTA. It is a very interesting issue given that people have different views about it. Some people have the idea that the NAFTA agreement has only brought negative effects into the US while there are those that support it. The president of the United States, Donald Trump talks of renegotiating the agreement on the basis that it is hurting the US economy. Well is that true and if it is, how does his not signing the agreement affect the manufacturing sector?

Let us first understand what NAFTA means.

What is NAFTA?

NAFTA is the acronym for North American Free Trade Agreements. It is a pact between the US, Canada, and Mexico, to remove any trade barriers and tariffs for any imports and exports. It was effected on the first of January 1994. Since then, it has been 24 years with the agreement still intact.

However, recently on May 18th, the U.S president Donald Trump gave formal notice to renegotiate the terms and if not, alienate the US from the trade agreement.

In the 24 years, the country has experienced trade volumes and economic growth. The state can export, and import goods without worrying about tariffs and that improved the economy at least for a while. However, the manufacturing sector mainly the CNC automation and machining among more manufacturing companies have been seen to be affected by the agreement negatively.

However, now that the agreement may not be signed is there hope for the manufacturing sector? Let us look at the benefits that may arise for the manufacturing industry if the NAFTA agreement is not approved.

Rise in Employment

With the trade agreement in place, US manufacturing industries have been able to import cheap labor or relocate their production to other countries such as Mexico. In so doing people who are specialized in mechanical engineering or those that are in the US, manufacturing schools are discouraged from pursuing this career since there is no hope for employment. However, if the agreement is not signed, those that are specializing in manufacturing will have jobs.

Stabilize trade

The NAFTA agreement allows Mexico and Canada to export their products to the US without tariffs. For example, the CNC automation industries are faced with so much competition from other countries since people are attracted to the cheaper automotive. In the long run, so many products are imported while very less is exported which causes a trade deficit.

On the other hand, if NAFTA agreement is not signed there will be hope for manufacturing companies in the USA such as Tag Team Manufacturing since imports will be monitored. Mechanical engineering schools will have more students enrolling to study since there will be hope to produce US automotive and sell both internally and externally without fear of competition.

Wages

According to statistics, US wages reduced as a result of the NAFTA agreement. Most people in the manufacturing sector lost their jobs, and in 2012, two out of three people were rehired but at a lower wage rate. That forced people to move out of the manufacturing sector and search for jobs in the hospitality and hotel industry and apparently, they got even lesser pay.

If NAFTA agreement is not signed, there will be less importing of cheaper labor, and also, there will be less competition from other manufacturing companies in Mexico and Canada. So, wages will begin to rise back up which will increase the economic growth.

Therefore, as much as NAFTA has brought positive effects into the US economy, there is a great room for improvement in the economy, especially in the manufacturing sector. So, is there hope for the manufacturing industry if it is not signed?

18 Oct20170
manufacturing innovations

A Look at the Latest: The Best Manufacturing Shows

CNC Automation Manufacturing, Manufacturing Process, , , , , , ,

Trade shows for U.S. manufacturers offer key insights into the future of our sector. Here are the leading events on U.S. manufacturers’ radar.

Where and When to Get a Look at Manufacturing Innovations

Automation and Robotics will be featured in sessions at WESTTEC, an event showcasing west coast innovations. It will happen September 12-15, at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

“What’s hot and what’s not in manufacturing” will be one of the presentations at the AMT D17 Distribution Summit, September 13 – 14, 2017, at the Ritz Carlton of St. Louis, Missouri.

September offers a lot more too. The Design-2-Part Series of shows happens in venues throughout the country. Check here to see what’s coming to your region. In fact, the listing on D2P shows continues well into 2018.

Also, check out the full listings for the AmCon Shows. These regional expos feature manufacturing suppliers as well as job shop services by the hundreds.

From October 31 through November 3, the Specialty Equipment Marketing Association, known as SEMA, will host its Official Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Nevada. This will be open to the trade only, and it will mainly focus on thousands of vehicle and transportation innovations. At the SEMA Show, 2,400 exhibitors, from established manufacturing companies to up-and-coming brands, will be displaying their newest products.

Then, on November 6 – 9, North America’s largest metal working, welding, fabricating, and finishing exhibition will be in full swing at Cormick Place, Chicago, Illinois. FABTECH, an event which will extend over 750,000 square feet, displaying the latest from 1,700 companies, is expected to draw 50,000 visitors. Become familiar with leading suppliers, and observe hundreds of innovations representing the future of our sector. It’s a phenomenal venue to explore the many productivity-enhancing tools coming out, and new solutions to metal working challenges.

The Outlook for the Trade

Trade shows offer important insights to the health of the manufacturing industry and the latest manufacturing innovations. We welcome the signs for the future growth of the sector, and a very good prognosis for our role in a rallying economy.

The progress of automation in the area of machine tools, called numerical control or NC, has become standard in manufacturing generally, and attendees of the big trade shows will find that computerized numerical control, or CNC, plays a leading role in U.S. and global industry.

Thus, even while the outlook for the U.S. manufacturing sector has often been questioned, we’re pleased and confident that the vital signs in CNC automation remain strong. We have remained optimistic regardless of political and economic events, yet want our customers to know the great value of their investments in U.S. manufacturing.

Because of your confidence, job openings for skilled CNC machining technicians are on the rise. Projections for the future show CNC manufacturing as a significant indicator for the strength of manufacturing in the USA-based industry. Our readers will also be interested in knowing that AmCon found the Denver area’s manufacturing sector outperforming the country as a whole in 2017.

Call our Denver-based Tag Team Manufacturing representative today, and get started planning to see the upcoming manufacturing innovations: 303.841.5697.

11 Oct20170
coolant

Coolants: Evolving to Support a More Healthful Machining Environment?

CNC Automation Manufacturing, Manufacturing Process, , , , , , ,

In CNC automation, knowledge of machine tool coolant is ever-evolving. At Tag Team Manufacturing, we have a stake in quality, including the environmental and health aspects of the materials used throughout U.S. manufacturing. Today we offer a rundown of the safety and performance improvements in coolants. 

Coolant is Essential

Metal cutting would be impossible without coolants of some type. Coolant is essential for moderating the temperature of tools, chips, and workpieces.

Yet a big concern surrounding coolants is whether they are safe for workers and the environment. Can coolant work well—without compromising health and safety? The answer is complicated, but progress is being made.

Mineral or Vegetable?

Innovations in cutting fluids are solving workplace hygiene problems related to tramp oils, by improving filtration performance. Traditional, petroleum-based cooling fluids would attract bacteria, as tramp oil mixed with debris tended to form a film on them. Managers would apply antiseptics, but those chemicals introduced further environmental health and safety issues, and could compromise metalworking performance.

Today’s coolant makers put an emphasis on vegetable emulsions in place of the traditional petroleum-derived fluids. Companies sell these newer products based on the fluids’ growing reputation for improved outcomes on the shop floors. It turns out the benefits of the innovations are environmental as well.

Beyond the Cheap Chlorine Mixes

Product developers once brought chlorinated paraffin into cooling fluids meant for application in nickel-based metals and stainless steel. The additive’s purpose was to bond under pressure, and create a lubricating film capable of withstanding high heat.

Chlorine alternatives, such as sulfur and phosphorous, tend to cost more. Today’s manufacturers avoid chlorine ingredients, and offset extra costs by recycling the fluids. Recycling systems are available from Eriez, PRAB, and Canada’s Custom Coolant Equipment corporation.

Additionally, we’re seeing innovative, ester-based coolants that take U.S. manufacturing workers’ safety and well-being to higher levels. These products significantly cut down on fume release, or misting. This is the way of the future, as Canadian suppliers recommend chlorine-free solutions, and in light of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s recent moves to restrict chlorinated paraffins in fluids marketed for manufacturing in USA workplaces.

You’ve Come a Long Way, Ester

The early, natural vegetable ester fluids lacked staying power. And, like petroleum-based fluids, they had an undesirable smell. Bio-stability was a key issue for the emerging products, because bacteria were attracted to the oils. But as Condat and others today develop synthetic esters, the chemical makeup makes these fluids practically bio-resistant.

Products based on vegetable esters, including Vasco, cost more up front, but pay off in performance. There is also Condat’s innovative MECAGREEN line. It uses a high-performance mix of synthetic, vegetable-based esters. Tool life is lengthened up to 20%, and the amount of product used can involve savings as much as 40% relative to petroleum-based fluids. Bonus improvements include smaller amounts of residue on parts, ease of cleanup—and a measurable difference in workplace skin issues.

Catch Up With Tag Team Today

Tag Team Manufacturing is an innovative CNC manufacturing company, dedicated to continuous improvement in the process of CNC machining.  Call us at 303-841-5697, or toll free at 866-915-2058.

© 2023 - Tag Team Manufacturing

Denver Web Design