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Mac-Tech Metal Fabrication News
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Sheet Metal Fabrication 101: What Is Bend Allowance?
Sheet metal fabricators create durable and precise metal parts for various applications, from automotive to construction. It’s essential to understand the effects cutting and bending can have on raw sheet metal. Get started with our handy guide, “Sheet Metal Fabrication 101: What Is Bend Allowance?” Bend Allowance Explained Bend allowance is a key concept in…
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3 Tips for Easily Drilling Through Steel Beams
Drilling through steel beams is a task that requires precision, the right tools, and an understanding of the material you’re cutting or drilling through. Whether for construction or manufacturing, the ability to efficiently drill through steel can save time and ensure the integrity of the structure the beam will support. Here are three tips for…
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What’s the Difference Between OEM and ODM Manufacturing?
You hear the acronyms all the time, but do you know what they mean? What’s the difference between OEM and ODM manufacturing, anyway? They sound alike, but they aren’t the same. Understanding what these terms mean is significant in product development and production. What Do the Acronyms Stand For? An original equipment manufacturer (OEM) is…
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9 Mistakes You Should Avoid When Designing Sheet Metal Parts
Designing sheet metal parts demands precision and foresight. Even with computer-assisted design (CAD), designers can neglect important considerations that make manufacturing difficult or more expensive. Thinking about these mistakes you should avoid when designing sheet metal parts will help designers gain insight necessary to ensure parts will be durable, functional, and, where necessary, visually attractive….
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What Are the Major Benefits of CNC Machining?
Computer numerical control (CNC) machining has revolutionized the manufacturing industry. What are the major benefits of CNC machining? Explore the key advantages of using CNC with metal fabrication machinery. Production Speed One of the most notable benefits of CNC machining is production speed. CNC machines can operate at high speeds and run continuously with minimal…
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5 Common Sheet Metal Fabrication Terms Explained
Sheet metal fabrication is a complex process that involves a variety of techniques and specialized terminology. To help you navigate this field, we’ve put together a guide to five common sheet metal fabrication terms, explained in detail. Tooling: Hard, Soft, and Hybrid Tooling and Die Sets Sheet metal fabrication often involves custom-made die sets that…
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Air Bending vs. Bottom Bending: 3 Key Differences
Air bending and bottom bending are two common techniques used in metal fabrication. Although press brakes with the appropriate tool and die attachments can perform both types of bending, there are distinct differences between the two methods. With air bending versus bottom bending, three key differences affect the quality of the final product. Difference 1:…
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Why Fiber Laser Cutting Machines Need Air Compressors
Fiber laser cutting machines have revolutionized the manufacturing industry with their precision and efficiency. To operate optimally, they require a gas assist, often provided by an air compressor. Explore why fiber laser cutting machines need air compressors and how those compressors contribute to the machine’s effectiveness. Why Fiber Laser Cutters Use Assist Gases Assist gases…
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Seven Tips for Reducing Machine Maintenance Costs
Well-maintained equipment is the bedrock of productivity and quality output in metal fabrication. Machine maintenance can become a substantial cost sink, especially for shops keen on maximizing their operational efficiency and minimizing downtime. The costs associated with servicing mechanical parts, lubricating, and updating software can quickly accumulate, denting a company’s bottom line. Effective maintenance strategies…