Part Buyers Authority Issue #5

Manufacturing processes continue to evolve at an unprecedented pace these days. New processes are launched, validated, improved, and made obsolete so quickly that sometimes a part buyer may never even hear of a particular technique, even though it’s become certified AS9100 for Aerospace and Defense production. At the end of the day, all tools have a purpose, and sometimes the tool that an engineer learns to design for isn’t the best way to make that same part 10 years later. The only way to take advantage of this evolution is to work with service providers who keep their historical processes running while becoming experts in the next generation of their core technology. Each of the authors in this edition fall into the category of business that simultaneously improves their standard operations while working as an early adopter of new technology. In the process they have built staff, culture, and process to support bridging their customer’s production from one paradigm to the next. While 3D Printing, or Additive Manufacturing, has drawn the lions’ share of the press as a “new technology” in recent years, it would now be more appropriate to say “Newly approved for AS9100 applications.” Companies like Innovative3D Design have staff on hand that work with customer drawings, evolving them from “2D” to properly documented drawings for Additive Manufacturing – but they offer these services as part of a turnkey part production service that includes CNC machining, EDM, heat treat, and other more traditional operations. Trident Alloys and Paradigm Industrial both offer traditional manufacturing services, as well as the opportunity to explore 3D printed solutions for tooling & mold making. Sometimes it doesn’t take sparkling new technology to make a difference – it just takes a more thoughtful procedure than the current one. Banner Metals Group showed a new aerospace customer a 10x (yeah!) improvement in one quality metric and eliminated scrap through process changes. Experience developed by constantly tackling new applications has taught RH Seals a range of solutions for air, marine, military, and other tough-to-seal situations. The old adage about problem solving when the only tool around is a hammer is spot on. Great providers have a full arsenal of tools, and they are also the ones looking out for air- nailers and battery powered hot glue guns. Contact: WILL SHAMBLEY [email protected] 4 PART BUYERS A U T H R I T Y WILLIAM SHAMBLEY President, NEW ENGLAND FOUNDRY TECHNOLOGIES and Additive Manufacturing Consultant