Researchers at Penn State University (University Park, PA) have devised a novel method for sintering, a widely used manufacturing process for powdered materials. The new process, which uses much less time and energy than current approaches, could have global implications on manufacturing and energy savings and pave the way for new discoveries. The Penn State cold Read More
Take the ‘Tough’ Out of Tough New Materials
Revolutionary new mixed-matrix materials, such as composites and powdered metals, challenge cutting tool OEMs to deliver products that excel under extreme cutting conditions. To make components from such unique materials, shops must carefully choose their cutting tools and workholding to get the best results. As opposed to solid materials that are composed of a single Read More
The Quest for Safer 3D Printing Materials
When Desktop Metal introduced its "office-friendly" Studio metal prototype printer earlier this year, the company renewed attention on the issue of safer materials for binder jetting, an additive manufacturing method. As it turns out, Desktop Metal (Burlington, MA) uses two binder jetting processes that differ from each other and from one typically used. Historically, binder Read More
NAMRI/SME Highlights Research Innovations at NAMRC Conference
Manufacturing academics were honored for their service, contributions and outstanding manufacturing research during the annual North American Manufacturing Research Conference (NAMRC), held by the North American Manufacturing Research Institution of SME (NAMRI/SME). This year’s 45th annual event was hosted by University of Southern California in Los Angeles. During the Read More
Airbus Installs 3D Printed Titanium Aircraft Production Part
Airbus has achieved a 3D printing first with the installation of a 3D printed titanium bracket on a series production commercial aircraft. Manufactured by Arconic, a global technology, engineering, and advanced manufacturing company, the 3D printed titanium bracket was installed on a series production Airbus commercial aircraft, the A350 XWB. Arconic is 3D printing these parts Read More
FCA, Toyota, Faurecia, AP&T Win Lightweighting Awards
Altair and the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) have announced the winners of the 5th annual Altair Enlighten Award, which strives to promote and celebrate innovation in automotive lightweighting. The winner of the Full Vehicle category was the 2017 Chrysler Pacifica, which is an impressive 249 pounds (113 kilograms) lighter than its predecessor. Toyota’s carbon fiber Read More