According to SME’s ToolingU Manufacturing Management Supervisor Essentials Course, just because you’re a manager doesn’t automatically make you a leader. Leaders cope with change and complexity. Have you taken the time to lead your shop floor recently? Do you know things needs to change? Typically, those who need automation tools are the machinists, production workers […]
Manufacturers with Fanuc CNC machines have specific needs. Especially when it comes to the subject of shop floor automation. Here are some quick resources: Can you do machine monitoring with Fanuc equipment? Yes! DataXchange machine monitoring supports Fanuc FOCAS. You can monitor this equipment on-premise or via the Cloud. Is Fanuc FOCAS similar to MTConnect? […]
Many manufacturers seek out CNC software to increase their productivity. Whether they have older machines and small shops, or the latest technology and many employees. Manufacturers also want software that can be used via wireless, wired, Ethernet, RS232, USB, and more connections. Here are some solutions manufacturers ask for that you may find useful: OEE […]
Planning to automate CNC machines or other manufacturing equipment? Here are three steps before starting: First, Create a Healthy Technology Relationship: “These tools have been developed not for nefarious reasons, but to improve the way we do business or the way we live.” Production Machining Senior Editor Chris Felix explains this topic in their April […]
Modernizing your manufacturing equipment is easier and more affordable than you may otherwise assume. Operators love USB to RS232 transfers of machine programs for many reasons. This CNC upgrade hardware helps machinists save time, it assists with basic program revision control and the devices that perform these actions help increase memory. Also, since these devices […]
Our article on DNC software functions and benefits was published by MoldMaking Technology recently. “A company’s programs are their livelihood on the shop floor. They make the parts that keep a business going.” The three different DNC CNC benefits discussed were remote requests, compatibility (different machines and methods to use DNC), and program revision control. We also […]
Operators with legacy CNC machines experience RS232 communication limitations. Because of this, they want to know if RS232 to USB or RS232 to Ethernet upgrades possible and affordable. You can easily modernize manufacturing equipment with RS232 ports. The LAN Connect device helps with Ethernet abilities. Benefits of this LAN hardware device: Replace RS232 cabling or […]
The following is an archived copy of the Shop Floor Automations newsletter from January/February 2019. The focuses of this email blast are RS232 port upgrades, OEE monitoring and more. Do you really know what your OEE is? Overall equipment efficiency (OEE) is a key element to better manufacturing productivity. Sadly, most shops gravely overestimate how well their […]
What are your CNC automation plans for this new year? If you are drawing a blank, never fear – here are three quick ideas! 1 – CNC Data Collection – Do you know often your machines are running? Or worse – how often your machines are down? Set up a machine monitoring trial to see […]
The 2018 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) brought about many changes that have set the pace for 2019. There are important manufacturing tax questions we are asking ourselves or should be. Shop Floor Automations has some tips you should check out! What kind of benefits can manufacturers seek out? Section 179 is a big […]