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Large CNC Machining: Precision Manufacturing for Oversized Components​

When it comes to building big (think aircraft components, wind turbine hubs, or massive industrial tooling), large CNC machining makes it possible to achieve tight tolerances at an impressive scale. These specialized machining centers are engineered to handle oversized parts that exceed the dimensional or weight limits of standard equipment, delivering nearly the same precision […]

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Prototypes & Tariffs: Understanding Landed Cost

While the flurry of import tariff changes following the post-Liberation Day volatility has calmed somewhat, fast-moving engineering teams still have questions. In fact, many customers have chosen to avoid non-U.S. manufacturing due to concerns about tariffs.  While tariffs have increased costs, the concern for prototypes is likely unwarranted, as the general cost guidelines have remained […]

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Product Development Process: Design Phase of a Multi-Tool Phone Stand From Concept to Prototype

Product Concept Development This article will take you through the process of physical product development, starting with the essential step of developing the product concept.  Problem Statement What product would mechanical engineers want to have by their side at all times? That’s what I asked myself as I embarked on this design project.  As with […]

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Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) Injection Molding: Process, Benefits, and Applications​

While many engineers and product designers are well-versed in traditional injection molding and silicone compression molding, liquid silicone rubber (LSR) injection molding is a specialized technique that’s often overlooked, despite offering significant advantages.  LSR molding enables the production of complex, flexible parts with consistent wall thickness, excellent biocompatibility, and the ability to overmold onto other […]

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OEM vs. ODM vs. JDM: Key Manufacturing Models Explained for Scalable Product Development

Bringing a hardware product to life is no small feat, and choosing the right manufacturing model to get you there is one of the most critical decisions. Whether you’re a startup launching your first prototype or an enterprise scaling production globally, how you approach product design and manufacturing directly impacts your speed to market, production […]

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PPAP: Production Part Approval Process Guide for Manufacturing

The Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) is a critical quality control procedure used in the manufacturing sector, especially by automotive and aerospace companies, to ensure that a supplier’s parts meet specified requirements before mass production begins. By providing a structured approach to evaluating new or revised parts, it aims to reduce the risk of defects, […]

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Rapid Injection Molding Guide: Process, Materials, and Benefits

If you need to design plastic parts and quickly get them to market, then (surprise!) rapid injection molding might be your answer. Rapid injection molding is an excellent option for production-grade parts without waiting months for traditional hardened-steel tooling, especially if you require multiple mold iterations before you settle on a final design.     Rapid injection […]

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Understanding the Types of Fit in Engineering: Clearance, Transition, and Interference

In engineering, the term “fit” describes the relationship between two mating parts, such as a shaft and a hole. The way these parts interact—whether they fit snugly together, move freely, or press into one another—is crucial to the performance and functionality of the mechanical system.  The correct fit ensures that parts function optimally, whether they […]

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Developing Effective Manufacturing Strategies: Key Approaches and Best Practices​

Everyone wants manufacturing to be efficient and cost-effective—but those are outcomes, not strategies. A manufacturing strategy is a structured plan that connects production methods to broader business objectives. Strategy is abstract by nature. Even the most action-oriented strategy is still a conceptual framework for how an organization intends to compete, grow, and evolve, shaped by […]

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Tariffs and Import Duties 101: A Guide to Managing Global Trade Costs

What Do Tariffs Mean for Global Manufacturing and Supply Chain? Tariffs are making headlines in the manufacturing world, and for good reason. In today’s global supply chains, a single tariff decision can impact a production line, affecting costs, lead times, and sourcing strategies. Few factors influence global supply chains as much as tariffs and import […]