Complex parts for industrial applications often feature intricate geometries, tight tolerances, and demanding machining requirements. Not all CNC shops are equipped to tackle that kind of complexity nor have a skilled workforce capable of bringing a product engineer’s design to production manufacturing.
Stecker Machine is proud to be a leader in the CNC machining industry, and we occasionally — and humbly — like to toot our own horn. Today’s topic is a tough one: selecting just four CNC automotive parts to talk about. It almost feels like being asked to choose a favorite child!
AI in CNC machining — that is, using artificial intelligence within the CNC machining process — feels natural, doesn’t it?
CNC machines by definition are computer numerically controlled, allowing for rapid production of incredibly precise parts, with their impact being felt throughout so many industries.
At some point, we all need some help with the heavy lifting.
For CNC machine shops, that can mean robots to lift, position, and pack metal castings, some weighing hundreds of pounds. It also means less physical and mental stress on employees, the most valued asset of any machine shop.
Working alongside a robot can improve operator productivity by taking on repetitive, physically demanding work. CNC robotics increase speed, enhance efficiency, and drive repeatability, which leads to better quality.
The highly automated equipment and robots in a CNC machine shop are impressive, and often their “flash” initially attracts customers. It’s certainly understandable, but that initial attraction rarely converts one-time customers into long-term partners.
Instead, it’s the skilled CNC machine operatorswho make the difference. The team takes your shop and customer relationships from good to great by dedicating their time and talents to meeting customers' needs and going above and beyond their expectations.
It’s a classic American tale of hard work and enduring success.
What started as a tool and die shop in a garage has evolved into a world-class CNC precision machining operation recognized globally for its excellence.
And this year, Stecker Machine Company celebrates 50 years in business.
“It’s a long way to the top, if you want to rock and roll.”
Thank you rock legends, AC/DC. Yet, it’s a long, tough road to reach the top in the manufacturing world, too, especially CNC machining.
So, what does it take to not only be recognized as a “Top Shop” by industry influencer Modern Machine Shop, but also make the cover (and be the feature article) of their annual Top Shops issue? Let’s find out, and also hear about the award presentation during the International Manufacturing Technology Show (IMTS).
MANITOWOC, WI, September 2022 – Stecker Machine Company, a family-owned CNC machine shop with 250+ employees, was recently honored as a 2022 Top Shop for “shopfloor practices & performance” by the editors of Modern Machine Shop.
In production manufacturing, efficiency is king. Any opportunity to reduce production time gets immediate attention.
CNC machines are an important tool for automating the production of mechanical parts to increase throughput while maintaining consistent quality. CNC machine centers play a critical role in a machine shop’s efficiency.
This article explains five big advantages of CNC machine centers and shares some experienced insights from a leader in CNC machining.
