Latest Metal Technical Articles

Categories

Reading and Reporting Industrial Emissions Data

Learn about the different ways control engineers can record, report, maintain, and read emissions data to promote a greener industrial environment and adhere to environmental regulations.

March 17, 2021 by Muhammad Asim Niazi

Hall-effect Sensors in Electric Motors and Linear Applications

Learn about how Hall-effect sensors are used in linear and electric motor applications, including brushed and brushless DC motors. 

March 04, 2021 by Damond Goodwin

What is the Edge? A Look Into Edge Computing Technology

This article will cover some basics about what the edge is and provide a few pros and cons to help bring this technology into focus.

February 17, 2021 by Jeff Kerns

A Look Into CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)

This article introduces the concept of Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and discusses some common uses for CAM for controls and automation specialists.

January 11, 2021 by Sara McCaslin

How 3D Printing Failures Happen in Manufacturing

This article will consider ways companies can use a full-digital thread and real-time monitoring that might lead to a better understanding of 3D printing part failures.

January 07, 2021 by Jeff Kerns

3D Printing Failures in Manufacturing: Troubleshooting and Prevention

This two-part series will look at failures in additive manufacturing, how it happens, and what might prevent it from happening.

January 01, 2021 by Jeff Kerns

What is Six Sigma and How is it Used in Manufacturing?

Six Sigma can be used to effectively manufacture highly standardized products. This article covers Six Sigma's philosophy, implementation, and certifications while looking at why it works for control systems engineers.

December 28, 2020 by Anish Devasia

The Role of Carbon Fiber in 3D Printing

The following will look at key factors in manufacturing carbon fiber parts and how 3D printing could address some of the materials processing challenges.

December 26, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

CNC Hardware and PLC Hardware Signal Differences

Learn all about the differences between PLC and CNC hardware, and be informed in making the right decision. Although different, it is possible to interchange them, but challenges exist because of the hardware and devices being controlled.

October 21, 2020 by David Peterson

CNC Software vs. PLC Software

It can be easy to group CNCs and PLCs together since they are both run by digital processors and programs. Are they interchangeable? This article explores the possibility on a software level.

October 19, 2020 by David Peterson

Common Sources of Failures in Mechanical Systems

What causes mechanical failure? Learn about three major sources of failure points in any mechanical assembly and a few tips to minimize failure.

October 03, 2020 by David Peterson

NIST Finds Patterns in Cyber Security Behavior Related to Industrial Manufacturing

The latest report from NIST and other government organizations found that tracking behavior may be a new way to track potential security threats.

August 28, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

The Future of Metal Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing

As metal additive manufacturing companies find more ways to increase speeds and decrease costs, the innovation behind this technology is continually expanding. 

June 24, 2020 by Jeff Kerns

How Thermal Imaging Can Help Keep Systems Safe

This article looks at thermal imaging equipment and discusses the advantages and applications of thermal imaging in a variety of control systems.

June 22, 2020 by Muhammad Asim Niazi

How to Measure Resistance with a Multimeter

When the power is removed to a circuit, the common measurements of voltage and current prove meaningless. The only remaining option is to use resistance testing to determine which components and conductors are working.

June 09, 2020 by David Peterson

An Introduction to User Requirement Specifications (URS)

Learn all about user requirement specifications (URS), including what should and should not be included and their importance for organizations planning to purchase new equipment.

May 20, 2020 by Muhammad Asim Niazi

Crimp Or Solder: Choosing A Proper Connection Method

In today’s’ world, a lot of connections are going wireless. But that signal has to start somewhere, and it’s likely to start on a wire. That wire has to connect to other hardware, like antennas, transducers, and computers to name just a few.

May 07, 2020 by Joseph McAbee

How Have Robots Played a Significant Role in Providing Aid During the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Not only have robots played a key role in providing aid during COVID-19, but their high levels of connectivity and accuracy will allow them to be key players in manufacturing processes of the future.

April 23, 2020 by Damond Goodwin

The Importance of Grounding Equipment for Safety

When it comes to electrical grounding, many strategies are employed to accomplish different tasks. One of the main reasons for grounding equipment is for the safety of users and equipment while maintaining strict adherence to regulations.

April 22, 2020 by David Peterson

What is Automated Palletizing? A Look Into PLC and Robot Controlled Palletizing

This article dives into automated palletizing and the different ways you can automate the palletization process through PLC and robotic controls.

April 09, 2020 by Damond Goodwin