Rachel Duran

Articles by Rachel Duran

Airgas’ Sustainable Welding Innovations Improve Quality, Productivity and Efficiency

Airgas enables your fabrication operation to “fill your potential.”

Fabricating Manufacturing’s Next Chapter

Automation, cobots and robots facilitate resilience and provide numerous competitive advantages to the metalworking industry.

Welding Technology: Robotics, Automation and Cobots

Moving beyond high-mix, low-volume welding work, cobots are more and more suitable for laser welding, becoming increasingly more portable, and are incorporating coordinated motion to optimize cycle times.

WILA USA Lives Press Brake Productivity

Throughout its history, WILA has introduced new press brake tooling technologies to increase product quality, bending precision and safety standards.

Innovation. Inspiration. Impact: FABTECH Makes its Debut in Orlando, Fla.!

FABTECH 2024 is the place to build relationships and see firsthand what is possible in today’s metal fabrication sector.

Build a Resilient Workforce

While utilizing digital platforms and technologies such as virtual reality for workforce training are powerful tools, there is no substitute for hands-on training.

Epicor: Solutions that are Made With You, For You

Enterprise-software provider Epicor develops user-friendly, cognitive tools and data that empowers manufacturers to make informed decisions at the right time.

When You Prioritize Workforce Development, You Empower Your Team

Discover how to attract, engage and hold on to the next generation of workers.

Innovation, Talent and Teamwork Set ANCA Apart in the Cutting Tool Industry

Now in its 50th year, ANCA CNC Machines is celebrating several highpoints in its storied history, while continuing to offer best-in-class solutions for tool grinding production, start to finish.

Inspiring the Extraordinary: IMTS 2024 Showcases What’s Possible

Automation technologies are omnipresent in the metalworking industry, and at IMTS 2024.

Steel Warehouse is a Trusted Solution

When Nathan Lerman started Steel Warehouse in 1947 in South Bend, Ind., with partner Herman Segal, he couldn’t have imagined the scale of the products and services the company would someday offer, as well as the incredible growth the company…

CERATIZIT’s Sustainability Mission Results in Maximum Productivity

CERATIZIT hosted Open Days 2024 in April where it showcased its sustainability initiatives and various new production facilities, sales and technical centers and much more.

Manufacturing Economy Enters an Expansion Cycle

News flash: the manufacturing economy is growing; manufacturers are focused on being cautious and profitable.

CINCINNATI INC.: Designed for Operators, Built for Owners

Cincinnati partners with fabricators to examine where they are today and where they want to be in the future, building road maps and pathways to integrate technology and automation into their operations when it makes the most sense.

It Couldn’t Happen at a Better Time… the Metalworking Industry is Taking Charge

Investments in technologies support shops as they hire inexperienced operators, who thrive using simpler interfaces and other advances to refine operations and production processes.

Combilift Transforms the Storage and Handling of Loads in the Metalworking Sector

Whether it’s optimizing warehouse space, improving efficiency in handling large or unconventional loads, or any other material handling challenge, Combilift has the solution for you — or can build one.

Metalworking Holds Steady by Creating New Opportunities

Expansion and job growth announcements demonstrate unwavering commitment to U.S. manufacturing.

How Best to Benefit from Automation, Flexibility and the Resulting Efficiencies

New advancements in the machine tool sector overcome challenges and optimize a shop’s operations, just in time to support a forecasted uptick in the manufacturing economy.

Infor’s Software Provides Visibility Across the Full Manufacturing Pipeline

Manufacturers implement Infor’s AI- and ML-enabled cloud software suites to stay on top of customers’ shifting demand patterns, create supply chain resiliency, and improve both client and employee experiences.

State of the Industry: Digital transformation, AI & Cybersecurity

Still on the fence when it comes to utilizing digital solutions in your shop? Considering being part of the next wave of solutions to remain competitive. It turns out, the road to AI results in practical value for shops of any size.

Take Small Steps to Experience Big Gains with AI-based Solutions

Generative AI and digital transformation continue to dominate trending topics in the metalworking industry. Cut through the noise and determine what works for your shop.

Automation Continues to Dominate the Metalworking Industry

Panelists at Mazak Discover discussed job shops and the workforce: with automation you are not reducing labor but adapting the skill sets needed to thrive in the factory of the future.

Formdrill-USA Turns New Ideas into Pioneering Solutions

Formdrill’s friction drilling is a nearly 50-year-old proven and cost-effective alternative to costly weld nuts or inserts traditionally used to create threads in thin-walled metal materials.

Resiliency, Adaptability and a Slew of Innovation

As we head into the autumn months, the manufacturing sector continues to register a slower rate of contraction as the industry holds steady.

Hang Tight: The Manufacturing Industry’s Expansion is Underway

While the numbers remain steady, the underlying economic message for manufacturers is there is a gradual improvement in new orders.

Technology is a Hiring Perk for the Metalworking Industry

Wide-ranging automation and robotics resources and expertise take center stage at FABTECH 2023.

Hastings Air Energy Control’s Solutions Reduce Energy Consumption

Hastings expands in the United States to better service its customers. Their products assist manufacturers in achieving healthier facilities and energy savings, as well as qualifying for grants and tax benefits.

Embrace Disruption: Strengthen Your Workforce Pipeline

The next generation of workers says technology is a major factor in their career selections. Attract their attention by demonstrating how automation and robotics are the future of metalworking.

Trilogy Machinery’s Processes and People Ensure Your Success

Stocked with metal fabrication machines ranging from entry level to custom designed, and full parts and service departments, Trilogy Machinery collaborates with customers to determine the best solutions for their applications.

Embrace Disruption: The Supply Chain

The supply chain is forging stronger links, driven by trends in ERP systems, digitalization, as well as newfound opportunities thanks to reshoring and nearshoring initiatives.

Create a Supply Chain that will Bend, not Break

The supply chain remains affected by the challenges ushered in with the global pandemic. Take steps to triumph over delays and hold ups.

Unist is Driven by Modularity; Positioned for Automation

Unist, Inc. empowers companies to seamlessly integrate their lubrication systems for maximum control and versatility, with minimal waste.

Transformative, Precise and Fast-moving Cutting Systems Expand Opportunities

No matter what your project calls for, there is an advanced cutting equipment solution to enhance and expand your metal fabrication capabilities.

Next Level Finishing

Aggressively (but safely) and rapidly remove material and achieve precise cuts thanks to breakthroughs in surface finishing products. Electronic dosing systems ensure meticulous paint applications.

Solutions Guarantee Your Shop Passes Inspection and Stays in Balance

Leading edge equipment, technologies and software provide a detailed look into the health and condition of cutting tools.

High Level Resistance Welders Deliver High Levels of Productivity

Metal fabricators will find no shortage of advanced and readily available resistance welders to meet their needs.

Start Cutting Sooner with Quick and Hassle-Free Tools

Increase uptime and operator satisfaction thanks to the latest improvements regarding chucks, collets and quick-change tools.

CERATIZIT USA Delivers Maximum Productivity and Cost Effectiveness

CERATIZIT USA Inc. is making quite a name for itself in the United States thanks to its expansive cutting tool portfolio and cutting-edge application engineering support.

The Manufacturing Sector is Cautiously Optimistic Heading into Spring

Electric vehicle related and advanced energy expansion project announcements, among others, hint at an economic surge.

Automation + Robotics = Smart Shops

Shops of all sizes are embracing automation and robotics systems and benefiting from major productivity gains with existing staff.

A Goal of Consistency Ensures HAIMER USA’s Customers Thrive

Tool holding technology leader HAIMER remains in constant contact with customers to ensure its solutions move manufacturing facilities to the next level in their operations.

Keep Your Parts in Place and Increase Efficiency and Output

Innovative fixturing systems and welding tables ensure you achieve consistent results and better part quality.

The Metalworking Industry is Having a Moment

Robotic and automation solutions take center stage as shops rise above labor constraints and increase efficiencies.

Tool Storage Systems Provide Organization, Security and Inventory Control

Upgraded features, new designs and combination hardware and software solutions mean you no longer need to hunt down tools on busy shop floors.

State of the Industry: Creating a Sustainable Future

Learn all about the benefits of navigating the road to becoming a sustainable manufacturer.

Are you Ready to Succeed in 2023?

The manufacturing sector is conquering challenging headwinds by embracing innovation and collaboration on the road to success.

Advent Tool & Manufacturing Builds Confidence Regarding Complex Applications

Advent Tool & Manufacturing supports shops in their efforts to branch out and take risks as they continue to bring more applications in-house, achieving savings in time and costs.

Manufacturing’s Automated and Digital Future

The positively charged metalworking industry continues to implement and invest in technologies that will prepare them for whatever 2023 may bring.

AMADA’s Innovations Create Total Solutions Ensuring Customer Success

AMADA’s sheet metal fabrication equipment assists end users in generating more product by utilizing their existing workforces.

Manufacturers Remain Persistent and Push On

FABTECH 2022’s attendees can view the latest machinery and software innovations and find the tools and new solutions that will assist them in improving productivity and increasing profits. Many exhibitors will unveil new or updated machinery or products and services.

The HYDMECH Difference Centers on Reliable Saws and Reliable People

From its worldwide leadership in metal band saw and cold saw technology to its long-term, driven employees, HYDMECH’s machines offer users a competitive edge.

Siemens: Totally Integrated Platforms Pave the Road Toward Digitalization

Siemens breaks barriers and offers platforms and tools to ensure machine builders and end users move forward with the digitalization of their facilities.

Manufacturers Continue to add Capacity, Facilities and Technology

Manufacturers and metal formers forecast little change in business conditions heading into the autumn months of 2022.

The Freedom to Innovate: TRUMPF Inc. Assists Customers in Realizing Their Greatest Projects

The embodiment of TRUMPF is the ability to integrate its high-quality machine tools with its high-quality lasers to build machines that enhance their customers’ competitiveness.

The Manufacturing Sector Stays the Course

Sentiment remains optimistic regarding demand as the industry gathers for the largest manufacturing technology show in North America.

Mazak Corp.’s Innovations Tackle Changes to Ensure Customer Success

Mazak’s continuous investments into the development of new products ensures the company is not only a machine tool manufacturer but a total solutions provider.

It’s an Exciting Time for Metal Industry Job Shops

Metal manufacturing companies continue to invest in machinery to control what their new normal will look like going forward.

ATI Industrial Automation’s Trailblazing Bodes Well for the Future

Leading developer of robotic accessories and robot arm tooling solutions is well suited to serve the emerging robotic surgical and electric vehicle markets.

Frontline Initiatives Aim to Plug Workforce Gaps

The fabricated metal products industry continues to report growth in new orders, as well as employment — even with hiring challenges. Learn about efforts to assist you in filling open positions.

Power Tools for Manufacturers: Dynabrade Keeps Pace with Industry

Dynabrade wants customers to think of the company as trusted advisers. The company is not just selling tools but is building long-term relationships and providing solutions to customers’ greatest challenges.

Momentum is Building

Optimism proliferates for construction equipment manufacturers, spurred by federal funding of infrastructure projects and other factors. Here’s what to expect.

Welding Systems Ready for Every Challenge

The next generation of welders, guns and torches are prepared to handle your job shop’s application challenges. The latest innovations and advances in MIG/TIG welders, guns and torches link fabricators to a wide range of products to successfully overcome hitches in the fabrication process.

BLM Group Focuses on Product Optimization and Direct Benefits for Its Customers

While metal tube processing is at the core of the BLM Group’s solutions, its expertise and in-depth knowledge of metal processing has led to a portfolio that includes flat sheet laser cutting systems, 5-axis laser cutting systems and more.

Business Indicators Set a Positive Tone for Manufacturing

The metalworking industry responds accordingly and expands offerings to meet demands.

Finding Workers: More Than a Help-Wanted Ad

There are a variety of initiatives and programs your shop can utilize to ease the challenge of finding workers.

CAMBRIO and SigmaNEST Keep Innovation at the Forefront of Everything They Do

CAMBRIO aims to help shape the future of manufacturing and assist its customers in meeting changes head on. CAMBRIO’s brands, including SigmaNEST, comprise a diverse set of smart end-to-end design and manufacturing software solutions. The acquisition by Sandvik allows CAMBRIO to collaborate with the Sandvik family and put those resources to work for the benefit of customers.

Manufacturing’s Economic Improvement Continues in 2022

Remarkable things happen when manufacturers open the shop doors and invite people in, which includes filling the workforce pipeline.

Make the Leap to Industry 4.0 in 2022

Still on the fence about implementing digitalization in your shop? Consider your future workforce — or lack thereof. By smarting small, your shop can keep and invest in the staff you have and implement machine-centric processes to do your base line work.

These Are Not Typical Times — How to Navigate the Manufacturing Economy in 2022

ISM’s Timothy Fiore shared his perspective on the supply chain, the strength of the fabricated metal manufacturing sector, and compelling information about what to expect in 2022.

Be Ready…Planning for the Takeoff

Things are “boomy” for manufacturing and the new year offers opportunities for those shops prepared and positioned to overcome challenges and take advantage of the continuing “takeoff.” The reshoring of production back to the United States is creating opportunities at the regional and local levels. Now is the time to invest, for example, regarding automation and workforce initiatives, and thrive in 2022.

Ready for All the New Year Promises?

The manufacturing economy’s booming market expansion is in high gear. Are you positioned to make the most of the opportunities?

Can You See Me? Augmented Reality for Maintenance and Training

By utilizing AR or VR, users with headsets or with smart glasses or smartphones can learn how to maintain machinery or troubleshoot pieces of machinery.

Eventful Year Creates a Multitude of Opportunities Heading into 2022

Despite obstacles, U.S. fabrication shops continue to invest in new machinery to meet demand and increase efficiencies to expand product lines and attract new industries. In addition, according to ISM, the fabricated metal products sector continues to register moderate to strong growth.

Mazak Launches New Swiss-Style Machine Series at DISCOVER 2021

Mazak further expanded its machine tool technology portfolio with the debut on October 26 of an all-new line of SYNCREX Swiss-style machines at the company’s DISCOVER 2021 event, held at the company’s headquarters in Florence, Ky.

Communicate, Diversify and Be Creative

There is a bright side to the challenges machine shops are dealing with. Get ahead of the issues and the positives in the manufacturing economy will see you to the other side. The experiences of a die stamping company in Connecticut may sound familiar; learn how their pro-active measures are making a difference.

Judges from Metal Shop Masters Share Their Experiences

The judges of the Netflix series discuss with F&M the message and awareness the competition has created regarding welding, fabrication and metal art.

ESAB is Sole Provider of Welding Equipment for Netflix Series Metal Shop Masters

The ESAB welding equipment used in the series included an all-purpose welder, a plasma cutter, welding helmets and other PPE. The company is a provider of filler metals, equipment and accessories for the welding and cutting industry.

Seeing Double: How Smart Factories Use Digital Twins

Implementing digital twins in your shop allows you to understand what is happening in your machines now and in the future. The data allows you to extract meaning.

Manufacturing Digs Deeper Thanks to Data

Manufacturing as we once knew it continues to evolve through the digitization of the factory floor. Leading business indicators continue to show an expanding manufacturing sector. Now is the time to invest or continue to invest in these technologies.

Online Bonus Coverage: Siemens’ Vivek Furtado Discusses Digital Twins

The September issue of Fabricating & Metalworking features a cover story entitled: “Seeing Double, How Smart Factories Use Digital Twins.” F&M Editor Rachel Duran visited with Vivek Furtado, head of machine tool digitalization for Siemens, about digital twins and Industry 4.0. Furtado provided a compelling discussion regarding the digitization of machine shops.

FABTECH Is Live and In Person: Let’s Get Business Done

FABTECH 2021 returns to Chicago’s McCormick Place, September 13-16. As the excitement builds to make those invaluable in-person, business-to-business connections, machine shops are busy embracing the post-pandemic economy and the “next normal” as the nation reopens.

Manufacturing’s Optimistic Outlook Continues to Soar

As the nation’s economy reopens, the manufacturing sector will be a major player on the road to prosperity. Buckle up.