- Future B11 Standards meetings

Manufacturing technologies for surface metrology

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EST

After recently attending a few conferences and symposia, one interesting theme continues to be highlighted: needed improvements in speed and accuracy of measuring critical features and evaluating them against the as-designed condition. This prompted me to ask some fundamental questions like: What is the impact on mechanical performance due to as-built feature conditions? What features seem generally most critical? What technologies are available to measure such as-built features?

MTConnect Update - April 2013

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EST

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EST

News from AMT members

AMT News - April 2013 - Interactive PDF

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EST

The view from IMTEX: India market set to take flight

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EST

The India Manufacturing Technology Exhibition (IMTEX), held January 24-30 in Bangalore, offered a glimpse of the future market potential of the dynamic emerging market that is India. As the largest event in India, IMTEX boasted a total of 979 exhibitors with approximately 1,500 machines on display. A total of 18 AMT members participated in the AMT/USA Pavilion at IMTEX, in addition to several others who were represented either in their own booths or in cooperation with Indian distributors.

Spotlight on manufacturing in State of the Union

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EST

President Obama outlined his administration’s manufacturing agenda during the State of the Union address. The good news is that Washington continues to look to America’s manufacturing sector as a pathway to economic growth and job creation. The administration’s “Plan to Make America a Magnet for Jobs by Investing in Manufacturing” lays out a three-pronged approach for strengthening manufacturing. 

DWG Update - March 2013

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EST

- Leadership Forum — taking networking to the next level

- The MFG Meeting

Market Data Review - March 2013

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EST

- News not bad but orders sag at start of year

- Producer Price and Wage Report

- Foreign Trade Report – December 2012

Targeting Technology - March 2013

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EST

- [MC]2 Conference – find out what's in it for you

- MTConnect OPC-UA Companion Specification work continues

– [MC]2 Conference registration now open

– TAG meeting

– MTConnect® OPC-UA Companion Specification

– MTConnect Challenge announced

– MTConnect® OPC-UA companion specification

– [MC]2 Conference

– Join the MTConnect online community

New products and services: food for thought

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 EST

Innovation means a lot of different things to different people. Some would argue that it’s the most overused word in business today, and they wouldn’t be wrong. But it’s also a key component to moving any industry forward, including manufacturing. It’s a well-covered topic, and an important one too.

ASIA = two-thirds of global manufacturing technology equipment consumption

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 EST

AMT China and AMT India offer new and improved services for 2013 to help your company get its fair share of all that business.

Sean Jiang now available from North America

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 EST

AMT China’s Sean Jiang will now be available from North America to help you develop and expand your business in China!

Brazil update

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 EST

– São Paulo Technology Center

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 EST

The Certified Machine Tool Sales Engineer (CMTSE) Program is the only nationally recognized program that acknowledges individuals who possess the skills and knowledge needed to perform effectively as machine tool sales engineers. We would like to congratulate the 20 CMTSE candidates who passed the exam that was given in November.

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 EST

- MTConnect^® OPC-UA Companion Specification

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 EST

News from AMT members.

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EST

Overseas buyers will often issue a P.O. requiring extended payment terms, and in some cases they will ask for financing for machine tool purchases. The ability to provide some form of financing can be crucial for obtaining an order.

Market Data Review - October 2012

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EST

- Date of second annual [MC]2 Conference announced

- New member joins institute

- MTConnect and social media

Mexico: an important opportunity, overlooked?

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EST

During IMTS last month in Chicago, I had the privilege to meet with AMT’s Mexico Advisory Board, a group of influential Mexican manufacturers, who have been assembled by Carlos Mortera, AMT’s General Manager in Mexico. This advisory committee is made of up big and small companies that serve a variety of end-user industries. It was a great way to get a finger on the pulse of manufacturing in Mexico, straight from the horse’s mouth.

Is IMTS 2012 a harbinger of better prospects for us in Europe?

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EST

It has been a long time since we have experienced such overwhelming accolades about prospects and the business climate in general as was heard in McCormick Place in September. An unusually high number of both European exhibitors and visitors reflects the fact that Europe is emerging from its poor state in 2010 and continuing to import metal cutting equipment at much higher levels.

The next generation at IMTS

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EST

IMTS 2012 was a tremendously vibrant event, and not just on the show floor. If you found yourself closing too many deals at your booth and you missed an opportunity to visit the NIMS Skills Center, or you were unaware of some of the other student and educator-focused events at IMTS, I thought I would recap them for you.

Industry News - October 2012

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EST

News from AMT members

1 October 2012 AMT NEWS - Interactive and PDF edition

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 00:00:00 EST

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 EST

As IMTS is upon us, I wanted to provide some perspective of the already remarkable trending occurrences I am finding that will be featured at IMTS. As in most years, the best advancements seem to be held close to the vest until the official unveiling at IMTS, but even so there are some interesting coalescence already occurring.

MTConnect Update - September 2012

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:00:00 EST

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 00:00:00 EST

Businessman, entrepreneur, author, lecturer, educator, motivational speaker, and leader Stephen Covey died recently at the age of 79 from injuries sustained in a biking accident this spring in Utah. The nightly news spent perhaps 60 seconds on his life and contributions that have, in my opinion, reshaped many aspects of our lives today. His “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” and “The 8th Habit” sold more than 20 million copies and changed the thinking and actions of people across the world.

A real-world focus for bridging the skills gap

An international traveler learns that, to see more clearly, a first step is to drop one’s own cultural identity, forget about one’s own nationality, and eliminate the idea that our parents’ rules are the only right way. Cherish differences in style.

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

The IMTS community is getting its invitation to join this community through our car skin design competition. YOU can help design and select the skin that will appear on the IMTS car – to be built in the Emerging Technology Center at IMTS 2012!

Year in Review 2011

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

[MC]2 MTConnect: Connecting Manufacturing Conference a resounding success

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

[MC]2 took place Nov. 8-10, 2011, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and had something for everyone from distributors to end users, to manufacturing technology builders, to software developers, to C-level executives, to students, to professors and to anyone who just wanted to really understand MTConnect.

Royal Master Grinder’s custom approach

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Flexibility and the understanding of how to meet customer needs are key to success in any business. Royal Master Grinders has mastered this approach, making customization the name of the game for all the machines they build.

Super Committee – anything but “super”

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Not surprisingly given the last year in politics, the deficit “Super Committee” announced it failed in its mission to cut at least $1.2 trillion from the federal deficit over the next decade. The impasse triggers across-the-board spending cuts in both defense and non-defense programs beginning in 2013.

Trans-Pacific Partnership talks continue

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Last month, President Obama spent time in Hawaii and throughout Southeast Asia promoting a free trade agreement between the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). The TPP’s nine member countries – the United States, Australia, Brunei Darussalem, Chile, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam – have held nine rounds of negotiations, concluding the ninth in October. On Nov. 12, leaders of the participating countries announced the broad outlines of an agreement.

Alka Parandekar joins AMT staff

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Alka Parandekar has joined the AMT staff in the Strategic Information & Research Department, in the role of Applications Developer.

Market Data Review - December 2011

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Customers' growth boring, but don't fall asleep

- Producer Price & Wage Report

- Foreign Trade Report - September 2011

Jergens HQ hosts AMT staff

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

On October 17, a number of AMT staff from both the Virginia and China offices visited Jergens’ headquarters and plant in Cleveland, Ohio. Jergens, founded in 1942, has been an IMTS exhibitor for many years and an active member of AMT since 2004. Their product lines are workholding and quick change fixturing, swiveling hoist rings, and specialty fasteners. 

Industry News - December 2011

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

The Ex One Company awarded Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract by the Naval Air Warfare Center; Prima Power Laserdyne appoints Allan Callander Market Sales Manager; Murata Machinery USA, Inc. announces that Futoshi Miyamoto will succeed Masahiko Hattori as president and CEO on Jan. 1, 2012; NCMS launches Transportation Environmental Resource Center (TERC), a new online compliance resource; Professor Berthold Leibinger, Chairman, TRUMPF Group Supervisory Boards receives Arthur L. Schawlow Award.

Targeting Technology - December 2011

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

- DoD TechMatch

- MTConnect

- B11 Meetings

American Precision Museum holds 12th Annual Model Engineering Show

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

For the 12th consecutive year the American Precision Museum (Windsor, Vt.) played host to some of the best model machinists in the northeastern United States and Canada. These machinists and hobbyists present some of the best examples of model engineering and every year the show attracts new enthusiasts who have a real love for machining and model making.

SBIR funding opportunities - December 2011

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

The Department of Defense (DoD) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) 2012.1 Solicitation will begin accepting proposals Dec. 12 (www.dodsbir.net).  The solicitation closes on Jan. 11, 2012, at 6:00 a.m.

Increase your sales to Japanese transplants in North America

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Selling to Japanese companies in Japan or North America takes some doing to be successful. Business practices at those companies differ from those we are used to in dealing with domestic companies and other foreign manufacturers with operations in the United States.

International Report - December 2011

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Trade missions have always been something that I considered to be for some other company, or some other executive. My sense has always been one of skepticism – a boon-doggle for management, too expensive, too much wasted time, for much bigger companies, etc. How wrong could I have been?  Listen up!  I could not have been more wrong, and this is a chance for you to learn from my mistake – a real “Lessons Learned.”  Jim McEachen

Business Development - December 2011 - You have a plan, but is it working?

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

“How will I know if my plan is working?” There are many ways to answer that, but the simplest one is to ask: Are you making more money? If the answer is yes, then your plan is indeed working. Remember, we’re all in business to make money, and there is no shame in that.

Mark your calendar: the 2012 Customer Service Conference is coming!

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

The next Customer Service Conference, the 42nd annual event of its kind, will take place on May 17-18 in Indianapolis, Ind. The upcoming event, sponsored by the AMT Global Service Committee, promises to provide an even more fulfilling and rewarding experience than any of the previous editions.

Forewarned is forearmed: employment agreements – get a good lawyer!

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Resolving personnel issues fairly, justly and legally in the environment of one’s own native culture and language represents one of the more challenging issues for companies today. When dealing internationally, the challenge can be magnified many times over!

GFMC 2011 stresses importance of networking

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

The Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference was a great success with 230 in attendance, including speakers and staff. New this year, AMT had an MTInsight booth set up to allow attendees to see first-hand what this new business intelligence portal is all about. Given the opportunity to win some fantastic prizes, over 30 individuals took the time during the breaks to try out a live demo.

Gearing up with Gleason

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

At first glance, Gleason Corporation’s headquarters in Rochester, N.Y., is a step back in time. The architecture of their headquarters building hearkens back to another era, but the technology inside is thoroughly modern.

Washington focuses on trade

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

Although the Currency Exchange Rate Oversight Reform Act, S. 1619 doesn’t specifically mention China, its supporters want to use it to allow retaliation against China’s long practice of holding down the value of the yuan to give Chinese products an unfair price advantage in the global market. They cite a recent study by the Economic Policy Institute that estimates China’s currency manipulation not only significantly contributed to our record high trade deficit with China in 2010 but also to the loss of nearly two million U.S. manufacturing jobs over the last decade.

Administration jobs plan to be split

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

The president’s jobs plan hit a snag last month, and no amount of bus tour stops or town hall meetings could save it. The Congress is sharply divided over the American Jobs Act, the administration’s $447 billion package to get businesses hiring again.

Market Data Review – November 2011

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

– The first part of BRIC – Brazil and Russia

– Producer Price and Wage Report

– Foreign Trade Report – August 2011

New employees join SIR, Meetings department

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

Kim Montenyohl has joined AMT’s Strategic Information & Research team as a Research Specialist and Donna Hartigan has joined the Meetings Department as Meetings Manager.

Industry News - November 2011

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

News from: FANUC; Hexagon Metrology Inc.; Jet Edge, Inc.; Mazak Corporation; Machine Tools Division of Murata Machinery USA; Prima Electro North America; NCDMM

Marketing metrics result from the prospect’s journey

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

It has been said “Be careful what you measure – or you could get it!” This is certainly true when it comes to measuring results from marketing efforts. It’s critical to measure the right things. For instance, offering free stuff at tradeshows may generate names, but not necessarily the best prospects to feed into the sales funnel. The number of leads could actually go down as an exhibitor works to increase the quality of the sales leads generated.

Targeting Technology - November 2011

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

– Defense Manufacturing Conference

– In-state resources provide assistance to AMT members

MTConnect® Institute has released “Getting Started with MTConnect – Connectivity Guide”

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

The MTConnect Institute has recently released a new document entitled Getting Started with MTConnect - Connectivity Guide.

Best practices for assessing the environmental sustainability of manufacturing processes

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

Energy efficiency and environmental impact are becoming key drivers toward designs and selections of manufacturing processes. Multiple factors determine environmental sustainability, therefore a structured methodology is required to assess environmental sustainability and to identify opportunities for improvement. Assessment procedures should identify improvements that reduce energy usage, compliance costs, and environmental impacts, without an adverse impact on overall process productivity.

International Report - AMT services in Mexico adapt to fit a unique market with great potential

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

As the Mexican manufacturing economy continues to evolve and expand, AMT services to support your approach in Mexico have kept pace. These inroads include, and are designed to enhance, the logistics and security of your marketing and sales operations.

Business Development - Taking a gamble on growth in 2012

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

It’s deep into budget season for a lot of AMT members, with everyone figuring out how to allocate their resources for the coming year — in essence, which bets they will place. That’s right, bets. That’s because in deciding where you’re going to put your funds, you have to guess about what ultimately will be beneficial to your company.

Doug Woods keynote speaker at Lockheed Martin Workshop

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

AMT President Doug Woods was a keynote speaker at the Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering and Producibility Workshop 2011 at Lockheed Martin’s Center for Leadership Excellence.

MTConnect® Connecting Manufacturing Conference

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

Often the question is asked: “WHY should I attend this conference?”  —  If you are an equipment manufacturer that integrates various components together, and you are looking toward the future in how you will offer new technologies to your customers, you should consider how MTConnect will play a role in that future. Ease of integration will be your cost advantage. If you are an integrator of complex automated systems, this will also apply. The need to reduce design time and increase diversity in offerings is real, as is the ability to reduce cost for implementing new system architectures.

FANUC: The people behind the robots

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

FANUC might be one of the most identifiable manufacturing technology companies in the world. Its robots have been seen in television commercials. At big international trade shows like IMTS and EMO, their booth is eye-catching, with lots of movement and of course their signature yellow color.

Washington’s attention focuses on jobs

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

The president sent the much-anticipated American Jobs Act to Congress last month. The White House claims the $447 billion package of tax incentives and stimulus spending will boost job creation nationwide. Republican leaders don’t agree. They oppose most parts of the plan and strongly object to raising taxes to pay for it.

Vehicle manufacturing program at risk

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

The latest continuing resolution had congressional lawmakers debating over the future of a vehicle manufacturing program supported by AMT. Started under President George W. Bush, the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing (ATVM) Loan Program provides capital for auto and component parts manufacturers to conduct their manufacturing here in the United States. Loans are offered to retool old plants and build new facilities for the production of advanced vehicles technologies.

Help your customers get ready for the manufacturing Renaissance!

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

Boston Consulting Group’s recent report Made in America, Again: Why manufacturing will return to the U.S. predicted a U.S. “Manufacturing Renaissance.” They forecast that by 2015, rising Chinese labor rates and currency would make it more economical to supply the U.S. by manufacturing here. For the economic trends to have a rapid impact on the behavior of major U.S. companies, however, the companies will have to calculate their total cost of offshoring. Unfortunately, most companies’ calculations are rudimentary, rather than complete, mainly comparing prices rather than the entire cost of offshoring.

Mark Kennedy joins AMT staff as membership director

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

Mark Kennedy has come to AMT as its new Membership Director. Mark will primarily work in sales for MTInsight, AMT’s business intelligence tool (www.MTInsight.org), and will promote the product to members and nonmembers. In addition, he will work to bring new members on board.

So, what’s it like to be an AMT intern?

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

Sarita Loredo, a graphic design major at George Mason University, recently completed an internship in the Communications Department at AMT. She began her internship in February.

Market Data Review – Washington, we've had a problem!

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Washington, we've had a problem!

- Producer Price and Wage Report

- Workholding - August 2011

- Foreign Trade Report - July 2011

EMO Hannover 2011 … and looking further east to the Russian market

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

If we were trying to check the health of the global manufacturing technology industry, we would probably best take the vitals of EMO 2011, held in Hannover, Germany. I have to believe that the conclusion would be: “alive and kicking and getting better every day.” The total number of exhibitors from the U.S. was officially 57, although some others were on the stands of their foreign distributors. AMT members were in evidence in respectable numbers despite, not surprisingly, being outnumbered by European competitors.

Industry News - October 2011

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

Certified Comparator Products (CCP) plans to move to a new, larger facility; FANUC Corporation named one of the Top 100 companies on the “World’s Most Innovative Companies” list; Gleason Corporation has acquired the assets and business of K2 Plastics, Inc., Bergen, N.Y.; Gleason announces formation of a strategic alliance with Gebr. Heller Maschinenfabrik GmbH (Nürtingen, Germany); Mahr marks its 150th birthday; Manufacturing industry mourns loss of Teruyuki Yamazaki.

Targeting Technology - October 2011

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Functional Safety / Control System SURVEY

- Upcoming 2012 DoD SBIR/STTR Funding Opportunities

- NAMRC 39

- Future B11 Standards Meetings

Mastering precise manufacturing processes for critical parts

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

When it comes to manufacturing, few industries involve higher demands, stricter safety standards and tougher-to-machine materials than aerospace and automotive. In these industries, subpar surface quality or part integrity can mean life or death — and are simply unacceptable.

National SBIR/STTR Fall Conference to be held in New Orleans

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

The main goal of the National SBIR/STTR Conference to be held in New Orleans, La., Nov. 6-9, is to assist companies in learning about the SBIR/STTR program and what it takes to win some of the more than $2 billion in U.S. government R&D investments.

The rules of engagement

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

How many times when you start a contract negotiation do you feel like you are entering a strategically prepared attack on your company — a war of sorts? Both sides are prepared to defend their own position, fight for what they believe they are due, and both sides want to win and be seen as the victor.

Business Development - Finding positive morale during a time of negativity

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

There is no question difficulty exists in the economy, both here and in other parts of the world. But as I mentioned in my column last month, the media is eager to run with these “doom and gloom scenarios” because, let’s face it, it makes for good headlines. Likewise, politicians are happy to beat the drum too in a push to promote their own agendas. Again, I’m not saying that problems don’t exist. But it’s all too easy not to get both sides of the story.

Japanese transplants provide steady flow of business

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EST

In times like this, when everybody seems reasonably busy getting orders and filling them, it’s time to make provisions for the future. We all know these good cycles don’t last forever and it’s only a matter of time. We will have a downturn and the market opportunities will come from someplace other than your traditional customers.

Japanese transplants are part of that “other” market. By nature of their business practices, these companies plan much longer in advance than most American companies. They are not as sensitive to the ups and downs of the market and provide a steadier flow of business throughout economic cycles.

International Report - By the Numbers

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

Many AMT members have already learned that using the Shanghai Tech Center (STC) is a very cost-marketing-sales-and-service-effective way to grow their businesses in China. We regularly get calls from other members who are new to AMT, or new to China, who want to evaluate their options of how to best approach the market.

Transplant Business Development Group reports a surge of business

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

Members of TBDG - Transplant Business Development Group are reporting a surge of business with several Japanese transplant companies in the last months. This is not by accident. Anyone experienced in doing business with Japanese companies knows that it takes a lot of patience and perseverance to develop business relationships with these customers. The TBDG sessions on business practices in doing business with transplant companies make it clear that the whole cycle of creating relationships with customers may take 2 to 3 years. For the companies that have been building those relationships, that time is over. All those efforts are finally paying off.

Laser focus at ROFIN

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

Industrial laser technology has advanced dramatically in the last 30 years, claiming a rightful place in the manufacturing world. A key to their success has been flexibility, and ROFIN has made that part of both their products and their company philosophy.

Washington goes back to work

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

It’s hard to believe that the August recess is over already. In Washington, the past month has been a welcome respite from the partisan battles that preceded it. While Members of Congress spent the break getting an earful from constituents fed up with the dysfunction in Washington, President Obama took to the road on a 3-day bus tour of the Midwest to convince voters that he has a plan to reduce the deficit and put Americans back to work.

Joint Committee on Deficit Reduction seeks cuts in government spending

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

A newly formed Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction is required to identify an additional $1.5 trillion in cuts between 2013 and 2021. This 12-member panel of both senators and representatives must propose a plan to Congress by November 23, 2011, and Congress must approve this plan by December 23, 2011. Failure to approve these cuts will cause mandatory across-the-board cuts to all government spending, including security and non-security programs. Congress wants to avoid these across-the-board cuts because it would leave the future of too many programs in unpredictable terms.

Market Data Review – Mixed signals mar manufacturing-led recovery

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

   – Mixed signals mar manufacturing led recovery  

   – Producer Price and Wage Report

   – Workholding - July 2011

   – Foreign Trade Report - June 2011

Gain the market insight you need at GFMC 2011

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

The Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference is a networking and educational experience you don’t want to miss — a true value for the money and time you will invest. AMT’s Country and Tech Center managers will be attending this year’s conference and will lead the country-specific member panel breakout sessions. They will also be available for one-on-one meetings with GFMC attendees — with the focus of improving your company’s effectiveness in selling into their areas. This is a great opportunity to begin or improve your business strategy in a number of key manufacturing technology markets.

Industry News - September 2011

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

News from: AccuStream, Eriez, Gleason Cutting Tools Corporation, Hurco, Jet Edge, Inc., Mahr Federal, MAG-IAS,  TRUMPF Inc., Weldon Solutions and FANUC Robotics.

AMT, AMTDA explore product, service integration

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

AMT and AMTDA have announced the formation of a committee to explore ways to integrate their products and services to better serve the members of both associations.

Tammy An joins AMT staff

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

Tammy An has joined the AMT staff as the Executive Communications Specialist.

Opportunity is knocking in the global marketplace

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

As the president of a global company and a member of AMT-The Association For Manufacturing Technology’s Global Sales and Marketing Committee, I’ve had numerous opportunities to meet fellow members and to inquire as to their levels of international business participation. Amazingly, most of them indicate that their exporting amounts typically run at about 50 percent, some even as high as 70 percent. Yet, there are many companies I’m aware of that often forego such international business despite the great opportunities in the global export market.

Targeting Technology - September 2011

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Make your voice heard on export controls

- “Specially Designed” – not there yet

- B11 Meetings

MTConnect®Institute

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

The MTConnect® Institute has sent Version 1.2 of the standard to the Technical Advisory Group (TAG) for a required 90-day review period wherein the TAG members have a final opportunity to comment on the standard and also determine if it violates any copyright or patents they may hold.

Sustainability with MQL technology – Why aren’t more manufacturers using it?

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

Manufacturers applying MQL are reaping many sustainable benefits. Their workers are safer, with both short- and long-term benefits. Operators, skilled tradesmen, and engineers are no longer exposed to the toxicity, bacteria and fungi risks that come with traditional “wet” manufacturing systems. The small amount of oil used for MQL is generally based on vegetables or esters, which are less harmful to the human body. Our environment is cleaner because the used cutting fluids no longer require more stringent disposal – this benefits everyone and helps change the “dirty” perception of manufacturing.

Separating “recession” truth from fiction

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

At the end of last year and up through recent months, sentiment throughout the industry was that the economy was picking up. Orders were ramping up, as were a number of economic indicators. Now, the news is full of reports about those economic woes returning, with alarms sounding over a possible double-dip recession.

What’s next for the Global Service Committee?

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EST

As we start a new committee year (August 2011 to July 2012), it is only fitting that we look back to evaluate the accomplishments of the past year. The committee did a lot on behalf of the members and in fostering better business practices in customer service and in ensuring customer satisfaction.

Plan your company’s future at the 2011 Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

It is nearing that time of year when you are making plans and strategizing in preparation for the future needs of your company, so why not take a few minutes and register for the Global Forecasting & Marketing Conference so you’ll be set to receive some of the most valuable data to help you in that endeavor.

First ever [MC]2 MTConnect®: Connecting Manufacturing Conference coming in November

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

On April 28 we announced the first ever [MC]2 MTConnect®: Connecting Manufacturing Conference in AMT NEWS. This conference will take place November 8-10, 2011, in Cincinnati, Ohio, and will have something for everyone from end users, to manufacturing technology builders, to software developers, to C-level executives, to students — anyone who just wants to really understand MTConnect!

C&B Machinery: worldwide reach with a friendly local feel

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

C&B Machinery has a global list of customers, as well as an international presence all on its own. But even with that global reach, the company still maintains a friendly, family-owned feel with “made in America” pride.

Congress in recess – coming to a town hall near you!

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

Congress in recess – coming to a town hall near you – Congress adjourns for the month of August, making this an ideal time to schedule a meeting with your Senators and Representative to discuss the issues affecting your business and the U.S. manufacturing sector.    

House approves appropriations bills

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

On July 15, the House approved the Energy and Water Appropriations bill, which brings the total to 5 out of 12 appropriations bills approved by the House of Representatives.

Market Data Review – USMTO now in MTInsight

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

- USMTO now in MTInsight with company profiles next!

- Producer Price and Wage Report

- Workholding – June 2011

- Foreign Trade Report - May 2011

Industry News - August 2011

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

Kurt Industrial Products has appointed Advanced Tooling Company of Olympia, Wash., exclusive sales agency for their products in Washington and Oregon; Mori Seiki recently broke ground on a 200,000-square-foot factory to be situated on 14.5 acres in Davis, Calif.; Ralph Resnick has received 2011 Outstanding Lifetime Service Award; The Energy Efficient Hydraulics and Pneumatics Conference will be taking place November 15-17, 2011, at the Sheraton Chicago O’Hare in Rosemont, Ill.

Targeting Technology - August 2011

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Centralized Contractor Registration

- Upcoming SBIR/STTR funding opportunities

- Future B11 standards meetings

MTConnect® activity update - August 2011

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

The MTConnect® Institute has completed updating the draft of Version 1.2 of the MTConnect standard. There are now four parts to the standard with the introduction of a new Part 4 entitled “Assets.”

AMT Technology Issues Committee organizes the next Technology Forum

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

The AMT Technology Issues Committee (TIC) met last month at The Gleason Works in Rochester, N.Y., to discuss progress on their various projects. A key subject reviewed was the next AMT Manufacturing Technology Forum which will take place March 7 - 8, 2012, prior to The MFG Meeting in Orlando, Fla.

GTAB gets together at Caterpillar Tractor

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

The AMT Global Technology Advisory Board (GTAB) met recently at the Caterpillar Technical Center in Mossville, Ill. The Advisory Board is a group of executives representing users of AMT member products.

Bits & Bytes - American technology and the NASA Space Shuttle program

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

We here at Bits & Bytes would like to extend our appreciation to American manufacturing and technology, without which the NASA Space Shuttle program could not have existed.

Some opportunities come, some opportunities go, some opportunities stay...

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

As economies go up and down, markets and opportunities change. But some markets have been enjoying a steady and sustainable growth, among them, Brazil.

Strategic planning 101: why that plan matters

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

So if you need to make a strategic plan, how should you approach it? This is where you want to keep in mind the ways you’re going to use your resources, what markets to target. In other words, you’re looking at the entire essence of your focus. You’re going to decide on the places where you’ll stretch, and the places where you’ll be more conservative.

AMT welcomes two new employees

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EST

Some new faces have recently come to AMT in the Strategic Information & Research and Business Development departments. Barb Diederich has joined SIR as a software developer and Sarah Icore is the new Assistant to the Vice President-Business Development.

FEIMAFE 2011: a very positive outcome

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

As trade shows go, it hardly gets any better than FEIMAFE 2011, held May 23-28 in São Paulo, Brazil. Not only was the show well attended (71,800 participants, including 1,345 foreign visitors from 51 countries), but the quality of the visitors was beyond expectations. The professionals attending the show were, in the vast majority, decision makers with concrete projects.

AMT helps organize well attended seminar at Tec de Monterrey’s Innovation Park

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

As an AMT member, you are aware of the services AMT Mexico provides. We are here to help you identify potential customers and help you to find venues to organize technical seminars, which are key to position your product ahead of your competitors in Mexico. Recently one member, Makino, organized a fully comprehensive overview of their products. The seminars were presented at a world class venue, the Innovation and Technology Transfer Park located near the Monterrey airport.

Obama Administration launches initiatives to boost manufacturing jobs

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

The anemic pace of the economic recovery has focused the Obama Administration’s attention on boosting the manufacturing sector, the most powerful generator of sustained economic growth.

President Obama signs new pro-business initiative

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

President Obama signed an Executive Order on June 15 establishing a new initiative – SelectUSA – which aims to retain and create jobs in the United States. SelectUSA, which will be run through the Department of Commerce and in cooperation with over 24 government agencies, will actively pursue new business investments in the United States by offering unprecedented assistance to businesses looking to expand.

Market Data Review – Manufacturing rolls on, but slowly

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Manufacturing rolls on, but slowly

- Producer Price and Wage Report

- Foreign Trade Report - April 2011

Eric LeMasters is the latest addition to AMT’s research team

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

AMT’s Strategic Information & Research Department has added a new research specialist, Eric LeMasters.

Industry News - July 2011

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

Gleason Corporation announces changes to their European Sales organization; TECHJET is now distributing Jet Edge waterjet pumps in Poland; Mazak Corporation hosted a Grand Opening celebration to inaugurate its new Southwest Technology Center & Regional Headquarters; Third Wave Systems (TWS) has purchased its second machining center: a Microlution 363-S 3-axis CNC horizontal micro-milling machine.

ISO-initiated standardization effort for environmental evaluation of machine tools

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

Based on a proposal from Japan in 2010, the ISO TC39 (Machine tools) committee established a new working group, ISO/TC39/WG12, to develop a series of standards related to environmental evaluation of machine tools. This effort coincides with the new efforts in the United States related to sustainable manufacturing, such as the Sustainable Manufacturing program at NIST; Sustainable Aerospace Manufacturing Initiative (SAMI) of the Air Force Manufacturing Technology; Energy Monitoring for Defense Readiness and Availability (EMDRA) effort by System Insights; as well as research activities conducted by the Laboratory for Manufacturing and Sustainability (LMAS) at the University of California, Berkeley.

Updated web browsers have enhanced privacy settings - Bits & Bytes July 2011

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

You may have noticed the release of updates to the most popular web browsers in mid-March. IE 9, Firefox 4 and Chrome 10 all promise a speedier browsing experience with enhanced privacy settings. The big push for all of these browsers is to allow the users to block or opt-out of tracking cookies easily instead of having to install a myriad of plug-ins or configure intricate settings.

SBIR advice: listen, learn, and leverage

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

A small business that applies for SBIR/STTR funds should view the solicitation topic author or sponsoring Acquisition Program as their client.

Targeting Technology - July 2011

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Defense Manufacturing Conference call for abstracts

- Defense University Research Instrumentation Program proposed budgets for next year

MTConnect® activity update - July 2011

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

- New Technical Advisory Group Members

- June TAG Meeting

- MC2 - MTConnect Manufacturing Conference

American Precision Museum exhibit project wins National Endowment for the Humanities grant

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

Shaping America: Machines and Machinists at Work, a new permanent exhibition at the museum, will open May 2014, thanks to a 3-year grant of $340,000 from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). The exhibit will showcase the museum’s unparalleled collection of historic precision machine tools and tell how the historic armory that today houses the museum served as an incubator for the machine tool industry.

Things look much brighter this year – Metalloobrabotka 2011- Moscow

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

The sun shone all week and the whole atmosphere was much brighter than at Metalloobrabotka 2010. Metalloobrabotka show officials reported that the show’s rented space increased to almost 300,000 sq. ft., with 779 companies from 29 countries. All in all they attracted 22,560 visitors.

What’s the downside of things getting better?

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

The bottom line is that you always need to keep watching for the alligators in the water. Be mindful, no matter how good things seem to be going. Be wary of a lack of focus. Grow as fast as you can, but do it in a way that reduces your likelihood of failure.

Engage the curiosity of the young

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

This industry stands as a beacon for individuals who are independent and creative and who can take a concept and create something of tangible value. These young people are out there, and we need to be proactive in engaging them and their educators as to the uniqueness of our industry.

Turning center evolution

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EST

Turning centers have evolved through the years from a single spindle, two axis configuration into today’s complex multi-spindle and multi-axis mill/turn centers. Size control and form accuracy have also been dramatically improved over the years.

MTInsight is HERE!

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

AMT launched its game-changing manufacturing business intelligence software to its members on June 1. MTInsight introduces a new era of analyzing manufacturing technology markets. The foundation of MTInsight rests on three strong pillars in the business intelligence game and, in the end, provides members with an interactive tool, saving you millions from the cost of building this on your own.

IMTS, AMT rev their engines at Indy 500

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

While most racing fans were watching the thrilling finish of the 100th Indianapolis 500 last Sunday, which featured a rookie driver making a rookie mistake and crashing just yards from winning the race, those of us at IMTS had our eyes on the start of the day. The IMTS hot air balloon was featured in the pre-race ceremonies and from early in the morning when the gates opened to just shortly before the race ceremonies began.

Attendees learn from each other at the Service & Aftermarket Support Conference

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

Service departments are tasked with responding to customer needs and the AMT Global Service Committee followed that lead in planning the 2011 Service & Aftermarket Support Conference held on May 12-13, 2011, in Cincinnati, Ohio. The AMT Global Service Committee listened to its customers and retooled the conference format. The result was a successful conference that left attendees wanting more and was one of the highest attended conferences in several years.

Manufacturing Mandate front and center at MEP Conference

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

Manufacturing Mandate frontand center at MEP Conference - AMT President Doug Woods gave the keynote address to hundreds of manufacturers and Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) service providers at the annual MEP conference.

2011 CASG Conference focuses on innovation

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

Innovative Automation & Its Applications was the theme of this year’s conference held at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare in Chicago. Chairman Tom Kramer, General Manager of ATS sortimat USA, addressed one of the largest gatherings of custom automated systems builders we have seen for many years. He emphasized that the success of the conference depended not only on the quality of the speakers, but equally on the interaction with the attendees and the ever-popular networking.

New federal funding opportunity — the Jobs and Innovation Accelerator Challenge

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

On May 20, the Obama Administration kicked off the Jobs and Innovation Accelerator Challenge in an effort to propel economic growth in regional innovation clusters throughout the country. This program releases $33 million for businesses to collaborate more effectively with the 16 federal agencies involved and help push forward new innovative technologies that strengthen America’s global competitiveness, create jobs, and improve local economies that have been bruised during this economic recession.

Market Data Review – MTInsight is HERE!

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

- MTInsight is HERE!

- Producer Price and Wage Report

- April 2011 workholding

- Foreign Trade Report – March 2011

Industry News - June 2011

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

AccuStream Inc. appoints TrennTek GmbH as exclusive agents in Germany, Switzerland and Austria; Chiron America doubling its manufacturing capability; Genesis Systems Group, LLC and ICESA Modicon, San Juan del Rio, Queretaro, Mexico, announce new joint venture enterprise; MAG acquires the French company, Forest Line Industries Group (FLI); The National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining (NCDMM) announces election of Ralph L. Resnick to the position of President and Executive Director; NCDMM also announces that it has awarded its highest honor, the Lawrence J. Rhoades Award, to Haas Automation, Inc.; National Center for Manufacturing Sciences receives award from the Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division Keyport; Preco, Inc. is ISO 13485:2003 certified.

New meetings planner joins AMT

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

AMT added to its meeting staff recently with the arrival of Senior Meetings Planner Miaeng Griffin.

Targeting Technology - June 2011

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

- Export reforms - deep-hole-drilling machines

- SBIR – why should I care?

- SBIR - funding opportunities

- B11 standards meetings

MTConnect® activity update - June 2011

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

- New Technical Advisory Group members

- June TAG Meeting

- [MC]2 MTConnect: Connecting Manufacturing Conference

- MTConnect Standard – Version 1.2

TIC Views - Sustainability and machine design

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

Sustainability initiatives are one of the biggest trends in the machine tool industry today. OEM machine builders promote it, customers demand it, and yet much of the subject of sustainability is misunderstood.

Is it time to consider online backup? - Bits & Bytes - June 2011

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

Computer backups – something everyone should do, but we often forget or put it off until later. With all of the cloud computing service options, it is easier than ever to safeguard your data from disaster. There are many cloud options available: the free 5 GB of storage available to Amazon users as Amazon Cloud Drive, the 25 GB of free storage in Windows Live Sky Drive, and/or many paid services like Carbonite and Mozy. A number of them can perform automatic backups to save time and effort.

Break the cycle before the next recession

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

While a lot of us are celebrating the recovery, the truth is that some of our members aren’t feeling it all. The reason is because they didn’t need one in the first place. They went into the recession strong, stayed buoyant throughout, and have come out with little more than maybe a few scratches and dents. Who are these members? They are the ones that have the broad product lines, serve the most diverse customer industries, have the most strategically diverse distribution channels, and typically sell into multiple geographic markets.

CTC: OPEN FOR BUSINESS!

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 00:00:00 EST

AMT’S Chennai Tech Centre, built by AMT specifically for our members, is now completed. CTC is a first class base of operations for growing your business in India.