Martin Supply https://martinsupply.com Martin Supply is one of the nation’s leading distributors of industrial products and providers of Custom Tailored Solutions for Industrial, Safety, Fastening and Integrated services. Mon, 18 Mar 2024 13:44:52 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://martinsupply.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/favicon.png Martin Supply https://martinsupply.com 32 32 CNC Machining: Understanding Feeds & Speeds https://martinsupply.com/cnc-machining-understanding-feeds-speeds/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=cnc-machining-understanding-feeds-speeds Fri, 15 Mar 2024 20:30:29 +0000 https://4ju.093.myftpupload.com/?p=9864 Learn more about understanding feeds and speeds in CNC machining and how they can be optimized for improved processes and productivity.

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CNC Machining: Understanding Feeds and Speeds

CNC machining is the backbone of many manufacturers’ processes. Unfortunately, they are also a major cost center and can be a bottleneck when it comes to getting the product quickly through the plant. Far too often we find that a company has invested in quality inserts and tooling, but is not running them at the proper feeds and speeds.

Feeds and speeds refer to two separate velocities for machine tools: feed rate and cutting speed. They are often considered as a pair because of their combined effect on the cutting process.

  • Cut speed (or surface speed) is the speed at the outside edge of the part as it is rotating. It is expressed as a unit of distance along the work piece surface per a unit of time.
  • Feed rate is the velocity at which the cutter is advanced along the spinning work piece. The units are typically distance per spindle revolution.

Cutting speed is the speed that the material moves past the cutting edge of the tool. Cut speed can be defined as revolutions per minute (RPM) or as surface feet per minute (SFM).

Revolutions Per Minute (RPM) relates directly to the speed, or velocity, of the spindle. It represents the number of turns completed in one minute around a fixed axis. RPM maintains the same revolutions per minute throughout the entire operation.

  • Center cutting operations (drilling)
  • When the diameter at the beginning and end of a cut only differs slightly from the beginning.
  • During threading to allow the perfect synchronization between spindle revolution and Z-axis motion to allow precise threads

Surface Feet Per Minute (SFM) is a combination of the cut diameter and RPM. The faster the spindle turns, and/or the larger the part diameter, the higher the SFM.

For example, if two round pieces of different sizes are turning at the same revolutions per minute, the larger piece will have a greater surface speed because it has a larger circumference and has more surface area. As the tool gets further into a workpiece, the same spindle speed will produce a decreasing surface speed. This is because each revolution represents a smaller circumferential distance, but takes the same amount of time.

Most CNC lathes have Constant Surface Speed (CSS) to counteract the natural decrease in surface speed. This speeds up the spindle as the tool moves closer to the turning axis. By utilizing CSS the lathe is adjusting the revolutions per minute to maintain a constant surface speed at every distance from the center.

  • A uniform surface finish.
  • When the diameter at the beginning a cut will differ significantly from the diameter at the end of the cut.
  • Better tool life and machining time because tools will always cut at the appropriate speed.

Materials will run better at specific SFMs. SFM is a constant, with RPM as a variable based upon cut diameter.  When the SFM constant is known for a specific material, the formulas below can be used to determine spindle speed:

Formula to calculate RPM

 RPM = SFM x (12/Pi) / Cut Diameter

So, for an SFM of 400 and a cut diameter of 5″, RPM can be found:

RPM = 600 x 3.82 / 5 = 458 RPM

When RPM is known, SFM can be found as follows:

Formula to calculate SFM

SFM = RPM x Cut Diameter x Pi/12

For example, if you have a cut diameter of 5” and a spindle speed of 458 RPM, then:

SFM = 458 x 5 x .262 = 600 SFM

Feed rate to show cutter with spindle speed, pass depth and step over

Feed rate is the velocity at which the cutter is advanced along the work-piece. Feed rate is expressed as units of distance (inch) per minute or per single revolution.

Feed rate can be defined as an inch per minute (IPM) or inch per revolution (IPR). IPR is more commonly used.

How can the values for Inches Per Revolution (IPR) and Inches Per Minute (IPM) be easily converted?

Formulas to calulate IPM and IPR

IPM = IPR x RPM
IPR = IPM / RPM

So, for a spindle speed of 306 RPM and a feed rate of .01 IPR, the IPM can be calculated as follows: 

IPM = .01 x 306 = 3 IPM

 

Cutting tool selection has a direct impact on the proper programming of feeds and speeds at the machine.

That said, there are many other variables that affect feeds and speeds, such as:

  • Work-piece material class and condition
  • Work-piece diameter
  • Cutter material
  • Cutter geometry
  • Type of cut
  • Depth of cut
  • The condition of the machine

At Martin, we pride ourselves on understanding feeds and speeds and optimizing them for our customers. Our Metalworking Team is ready to share their expertise and find custom-tailored solutions that fit your needs. To learn more about how we can help you maximize the profitability of your machine shop, contact your Martin Sales Rep or call 800.828.8116.

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Power Tool Performance: Diagnosing 5 Common Problems https://martinsupply.com/power-tool-performance-diagnosing-5-common-problems/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=power-tool-performance-diagnosing-5-common-problems Fri, 15 Mar 2024 20:28:44 +0000 https://4ju.093.myftpupload.com/?p=8336 We all love our power tools, but when you put the strain on them that is common in manufacturing you’ll inevitably have some problems. This guide will help you diagnose what is wrong with your power tools and give you a few quick fixes to get you back to work.

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How to Diagnose 5 Common Problems in Your Power Tool Performance

We all love our power tools, but when you put the strain on them that is common in manufacturing you’ll inevitably have some problems. This guide will help you diagnose what is wrong with your power tools and give you a few quick fixes to get you back to work.

What do I do if my power tool won’t turn on? If your tools won’t start, it could be electrical problems including a short or part malfunction.

  1. Start by checking the power switch to make sure there is no damage. Both heat and water can cause damage and result in a dead tool. To test the voltage on your tool, use a multi-meter to check if power is moving through each part of the tool. This may help you find the bad piece.
  2. Next, check brushes and springs. Dust and dirt will accumulate over time within a tool and can prevent a tool from working. Brush channels— enclosures consisting of brushes and springs located at the end of a motor where electricity is routed—can become worn and shorten over time. Check your brushes for wear and replace them accordingly.
  3. A bad power cord will stop a tool in its tracks and is a visible issue that can be replaced. A loose cord, kinks, tears, or cuts can stop the flow of electricity to the power switch, rendering your tool useless.
Construction site power tool

What do I do when my tool starts, but the power level is weak? So your tool starts but the power level is so weak that it would be faster to do it by hand (which nobody wants). When your power tools lose that top-end performance (and it’s not just a low battery), the most likely cause are old, worn, carbon brushes that need replacing. The carbon brushes function by transferring the electrical current to the tool’s motor. These will eventually wear out. If your tool is losing power and doesn’t have the speed or strength it should, it could be an indicator that it is time to replace these parts.

  • Similar to a tool that won’t start, check your carbon brushes for any heavy wear or signs of damage.
  • If you have clear brushes, there may be damage to your tool’s commutator or the rest of the assembly. Discoloration, buildup, and melted insulation are signs that the commutator is the cause.

With Martin’s Tool Analysis Program, our team can survey the tools in your facility and find ways to improve workflow and efficiency. 

My power tool smells like something is burning, what do I do? We all know the smell of a burning motor, and the cringe it causes knowing that something is wrong. Everything is still spinning but the tool is no longer working, and it just stinks.

  • It can be difficult to diagnose the smell depending on the age, type, and design of your power tool. If your tool has a drive belt—like a sander or a planer—that is the first place to check.
  • If the drive belt breaks you will get a distinctive burning smell, and your tool will stop working even though the motor is going.
  • For other tools, such as power saws, check if the capacitors need replacing.
  • Some tools do overheat, so don’t immediately panic if you smell something. Motors generate a lot of heat when in use, so if the tool has been running too long or too hard, the tool can overheat and cause a burning smell. If you do smell something, immediately turn off any power tool that is emitting a burning smell and let it sit for about 30 minutes before attempting to diagnose the problem.

My power tool is making an abnormal high-pitched noise, how can I fix it? Using power tools can be pretty loud. But there is a difference between normal activity and high-pitched screeching noise. That goes above and beyond the loud hum of your electric hammer drill and could be a sign of trouble.

  • If your tool starts making unusual noises, make sure that it is properly lubricated. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for maintaining your tool to determine what the proper method is.
  • Another easy check for a squealing tool is to look at the gears. If your tool has a forward and reverse control (as most power drills do), your gear switch may get stuck between gears. Gently move the switch back and forth to re-engage the gears and try slowly running the drill again.

I turned on my power tool and it’s emitting smoke or fire… help! If your power tool begins to emit smoke or sparks, turn it off immediately. You should never continue using power tools that are smoking or sparking as they could cause serious damage to you or itself. Set your tool aside, allow it to cool down, then take a look and try to diagnose or fix an issue.

  • Once the tool has cooled, check to see if any dust or debris has gotten into the tool. Particles that frequently fly through the air in heavy work areas can get into your tool’s vent and cause that sparking or smoking.
  • If your tool is free of burning debris, you may need to take apart the tool’s casing and check for heat damage.

If your these common tips don’t fix your issues, or if you’re still unsure of the best course of action, contact Martin today. We have an extensive line of power tools that will do the job!

Learn about our Industrial Solutions or give us a call at 800.818.8116.

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Pros and Cons of Oil-Based Coolants https://martinsupply.com/pros-and-cons-of-oil-based-coolant/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=pros-and-cons-of-oil-based-coolant Fri, 15 Mar 2024 20:27:22 +0000 https://4ju.093.myftpupload.com/?p=17805 You have several options for selecting a coolant in CNC machining. About 85% percent of machine shops today use a water-based fluid in their applications. These include soluble oils, synthetics, and semi synthetics. However, in precision machining applications, an oil-based coolant is a better option.

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What are the Pros and Cons of Oil-Based Coolants?

You have several options for selecting a coolant in CNC machining. About 85% percent of machine shops today use a water-based fluid in their applications. These include soluble oils, synthetics, and semi synthetics. However, in precision machining applications, an oil-based coolant is a better option. To determine which coolant is best for your team, a tool analysis can help to find an option that suits your team’s needs.

Oil-based coolants do not contain water. They are also known as cutting oil, petroleum, vegetable, or mineral-based fluids. These fluids are used in light ferrous and non-ferrous machining applications. In more heavy-duty applications these coolants may contain wetting agents, up to 20 percent fatty oils, and extreme pressure (EP) additives such as chlorine, sulfur, or phosphorous compounds. These additives help improve lubrication and coat the tool, as well as guard against microscopic welding which can lead to tool breakage and rough finishes.

An advantage of using oil as a coolant is the “cushioning” effect it has between the workpiece and cutting tool. Oil helps create high-quality surface finishes and prolongs the life of the tool. Oil-based coolants tend to be the coolant of choice for crush grinding, deep-hole drilling, severe broaching and tapping and for machining difficult-to-cut metals such as certain stainless steels, super alloys, and titanium. Additionally, these coolants are easy to maintain and less likely to cause problems if misused. They also provide rust protection, increase sump life and resist rancidity due to the lack of water for bacteria to grow.

Oil-based coolants do have some disadvantages. Their heat dissipation ability is lacking, and they can create a mist or smoke that can be harmful to shop operators. This can increase the risk of fire, making it important to have proper fire suppression and ventilation systems in place. Oil-based coolants tend to messy, leaving an oily film on work pieces and tools, making cleanup more difficult and requiring the use of cleaning solvents.

The table below shows coolant recommendations based on the machining processes and materials being machined.

Download a free pdf of this chart here.

Selecting the right coolants and cutting fluids is crucial for precision machining. It’s not just about using any lubricant or coolant; factors like metal type, tooling, and machining processes must be considered. Martin partners with best-in-class coolant suppliers to ensure you have the right solution for your application. Contact a Metalworking Specialist, your Martin Sales Rep or call 800.828.8116 for more information.

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Transforming Machine Shop Operations https://martinsupply.com/transforming-machine-shop-operations/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=transforming-machine-shop-operations Wed, 13 Mar 2024 20:39:33 +0000 https://martinsupply.com/?p=23080 In the precision-driven world of machine shops, the margin for error is very small. Quality Control stands as the guardian of standards, ensuring every part meets the company’s criteria. However, a gap in communication can sometimes create a severe lack of efficiency.

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Transforming Machine Shop Operations with Wireless Quality Control Technology

In the precision-driven world of machine shops, the margin for error is very small. Quality Control stands as the guardian of standards, ensuring every part meets the company’s criteria. However, a gap in communication can sometimes create a severe lack of efficiency. Martin Supply was approached by a machine shop who was having a problem with inaccurate information being sent to their quality control department.

Understanding the critical nature of accurate data transmission, Martin was brought in to analyze the situation and propose a solution. After testing and evaluation, Martin’s team determined that the answer lay in technology—specifically, a wireless data collection system. This system was introduced to completely change how measurement data was transferred to Quality Control.

Designed to connect seamlessly with the measurement tools used on the shop floor, the system allowed for instant data transfer at the click of a button. This not only increased the accuracy of the data, but also made the process more user-friendly and easier for the operators.

The direct transfer of data minimized the risk of human error, ensuring that Quality Control received accurate information every time. With more accurate data, the Quality Control department could more reliably approve parts, significantly decreasing the number of rejections. Quoted at one-third of the price of alternative options, it saved the client $4,175 directly. The indirect savings, stemming from improved efficiency and reduced downtime, were even more significant.

By understanding the client’s specific needs and leveraging technology to address them, Martin provided a solution that enhanced the accuracy, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of the Quality Control process.

Spring measurement case study thumbnail

The wireless data collection system allowed workers to more effectively communicate and avoid human error. This allowed Quality Control to quickly process the results coming in each day and move on to other issues.

This solution is an example of how introducing new technology can vastly improve a company’s processes and communication. To learn how Martin can help your facility operate better, contact your Martin Sales Rep or call 800.828.8116.

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The Impact of Smart Grinding Wheel Technology https://martinsupply.com/the-impact-of-smart-grinding-wheel-technology/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-impact-of-smart-grinding-wheel-technology Wed, 13 Mar 2024 19:05:01 +0000 https://martinsupply.com/?p=23072 In the industrial world, efficiency isn't just about speed—it's about smart solutions that save time, reduce costs, and improve worker safety.

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The Impact of Smart Grinding Wheel Technology

The Grinding Dilemma

Grinding steel beams is no easy task. It’s a process that’s as demanding as it sounds, requiring precision, endurance, and the right tools for the job. Our customer was using an excessive number of grinding wheels each day, leading to high costs and frequent change-outs. This not only slowed down production, but also placed a significant strain on the workers, causing fatigue and increasing the risk of injuries. The customer initially said they did not know that this was an issue because it was “the way things had always been.”

A Fresh Perspective

The first step was to challenge the status quo. Martin introduced the idea that what had always been accepted as ‘normal’ was, in fact, a significant inefficiency. Martin’s Tool Analysis Program specifies the right tools and supplies needed to minimize scrap, reduce excessive machine wear and tear, and determine causes of failure. Through comprehensive testing of various grinding wheels, Martin aimed to find a solution that would enhance performance, extend the life of the tools, and make the grinding process more user-friendly.

After testing several kinds of grinding wheels, the Martin Team was able to find one that improved performance, durability, and ease of use. However, a tool is only as effective as the person using it. To make sure that workers could get maximum value out of their new equipment, Martin led a detailed training session to teach proper application and care.

Immediate Results

The new grinding wheel chosen through Martin’s initiative dramatically outperformed the old ones. The daily usage of grinding wheels plummeted from 120 to just 24. This massive reduction translated into a hard cost saving of $94,500. Furthermore, the high-performance wheels did not suffer from loading issues, which meant less fatigue for workers, a lower risk of injuries, and a significant increase in productivity.

Grinding wheel case study

This solution is a testament to Martin’s role as more than just a distributor. We are a strategic partner capable of identifying problems, creating solutions, and implementing changes that lead to substantial improvements in efficiency, safety, and cost savings. To learn how Martin can help your team, contact your Martin Sales Rep or call 800.828.8116.

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Reducing Heat Risks in Mills and Foundries With PPE https://martinsupply.com/reducing-heat-risks-in-mills-and-foundries-with-ppe/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=reducing-heat-risks-in-mills-and-foundries-with-ppe Tue, 12 Mar 2024 21:23:34 +0000 https://martinsupply.com/?p=23066 Working in mills and foundries frequently involves exposure to extreme heat, a hazard that can turn severe very quickly. It's crucial to equip anyone working in these conditions with the right protective gear to safeguard against heat-related hazards and the long-term effects of heat stress. When deciding what types of PPE to bring into your facility, safety managers must strike a balance between technical detail and accessibility.

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Reducing Heat Risks in Mills and Foundries With PPE

Workers require garments that can withstand high temperatures without compromising comfort and mobility. This can include equipment that either reflects heat or cools down the person wearing it.

Aluminized Gear

Reflective clothing, such as aluminized jackets and aprons, are vital for those near intense heat. The metal reflects heat away from the body, keeping their internal temperature low.

Flame-Resistant Materials

Garments made from materials that resist ignition and self-extinguish can dramatically reduce burn injuries from sparks or sudden flame exposure.

Specialized Footwear

Foot protection should include materials that resist melting and provide insulation against ground heat. Protective boots often feature reinforced toes and are made from materials that offer both heat resistance and anti-slip properties.

Helmets and Face Shields

Protecting the head and face from radiant heat and sparks is non-negotiable. Gear made from heat-resistant materials, including helmets and face shields, should protect the worker against both thermal and impact hazards while maintaining visibility.

Beyond protective clothing, addressing heat stress is critical. Solutions include wearable cooling technology, such as vests with cooling packs. These will help to prevent workers from overheating during the workday. Ensuring workers have easy and consistent access to hydration will also help combat the dehydrating effects of high temperatures.

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Cutting Costs Without Cutting Quality by Reviewing Your Tooling https://martinsupply.com/cutting-costs-without-cutting-quality-by-reviewing-your-tooling/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=cutting-costs-without-cutting-quality-by-reviewing-your-tooling Thu, 08 Feb 2024 15:19:55 +0000 https://martinsupply.com/?p=22951 As industries navigate the challenges of rising costs and increasing demands for precision, partnerships with trusted advisors like Martin prove instrumental in unlocking hidden opportunities for optimization.

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Cutting Costs Without Cutting Quality by Reviewing Your Tooling

Martin’s team of metalworking specialists began their process by reviewing the existing tooling inside their facility. Collaborating with a cutting tool expert and a trusted manufacturer, they made a comprehensive assessment of their tooling to find opportunities for savings. After rigorous testing and analysis, Martin’s team was able to find a milling application in their facility where the tool life was poor. With a simple replacement, Martin’s team believed that they could significantly extend the life of their tools, which would cut long-term costs and reduce downtime.

Following the replacement, early returns were very positive. The cost per component was reduced by 39% and tool life was roughly double compared to the original tool. In total, the aerospace machine shop is saving almost $20,000 annually after the replacement. Martin also swapped out the cutter at no charge to the customers, making the transaction seamless and easy without disrupting their operations.

As industries navigate the challenges of rising costs and increasing demands for precision, partnerships with trusted advisors like Martin prove instrumental in unlocking hidden opportunities for optimization. By leveraging expertise and innovation, businesses can not only weather challenges but emerge stronger, more efficient, and better positioned for sustained success.

This example shows why it’s important to review your own processes and continuously look for ways to improve. Martin’s custom-tailored solution not only addressed the immediate need for cost reduction but also bolstered the shop’s competitive edge in the aerospace machining industry. To learn how Martin can help you, contact your Martin Sales Rep or call 800.828.8116.

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Shaking It Up: How Anti-Vibration Fastening Solutions Keep Things Together https://martinsupply.com/shaking-it-up-how-anti-vibration-fastening-solutions-keep-things-together/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=shaking-it-up-how-anti-vibration-fastening-solutions-keep-things-together Thu, 08 Feb 2024 14:44:29 +0000 https://martinsupply.com/?p=22940 Anti-vibration fasteners and solutions play important roles in ensuring the reliability and performance of your equipment. The choice of fastener depends on the application's requirements, the level of vibration, and more.

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Shaking It Up: How Anti-Vibration Fastening Solutions Keep Things Together

Vibration is one of the key hazards that can lead to manufacturing and industrial failures. It effects manufacturers in a number of industries, from aerospace and automotive engineering to medical equipment and railway transportation. If your equipment is using the wrong kinds of fasteners, it can compromise safety, longevity, and performance. Anti-vibration fasteners are created to prevent unwanted loosening or failures, which should reduce long-term cost and prevent major headaches in the future.

Anti-vibration solutions, as the name suggests, are designed to reduce or eliminate the transmission of vibrations. They are often used in applications where vibration can lead to fatigue, structural failure, or damage to sensitive components. Thread-locking fasteners are specifically designed to prevent unintentional loosening of threaded connections, such as nuts and bolts. They are commonly used in applications where vibrations, thermal cycling, or other external forces can cause traditional fasteners to come loose.

However, there are several types of anti-vibration solutions, and the correct one for your facility may depend on the application or environment:

Nylon Insert Lock Nuts

These nuts have a nylon ring contained in the nut, which creates resistance when the nut is threaded onto a bolt. This resistance helps keep the nut in place and prevents it from backing out due to vibrations.

Prevailing Torque Nuts

These nuts have distorted threads or deformed sections that create friction and resistance during installation and removal. They are most often used in automotive applications and were commonly used in aerospace applications.

Adhesive Locking Fasteners

Some fasteners are coated with an adhesive or sealant that cures when the fastener is tightened. This adhesive creates a bond between the fastener and the threads.

Interference Fit Fasteners

In some cases, fasteners are designed to have a slightly larger diameter than the hole they are inserted into. This interference fit provides extra resistance to avoid loosening.

Wedge Lock Washers

These two-piece washers have serrated outer surfaces that bite into the surfaces of the bolt and nut and a ramp on the mating inner surfaces that act as an internal wedge, which allows the assembly to maintain tension and resistance to loosening.

Rubber or Silicone Mounts

These fasteners incorporate rubber or silicone components that absorb and dampen vibrations, isolating the connected parts from the vibrations.

Spring and Cushioned
Fasteners

These fasteners feature built-in springs or elastomeric cushions that provide shock absorption and vibration isolation.

Isolation Mounts

These are specialized mounts or fasteners used to isolate heavy machinery or equipment from their foundations to prevent vibrations from being transmitted to the surrounding structure.

Threaded Inserts

Threaded inserts with vibration-resistant thread profiles can be used to secure components in place while minimizing vibration transfer.


Anti-vibration fasteners and solutions play important roles in ensuring the reliability and performance of your equipment. The choice of fastener depends on the application’s requirements, the level of vibration, and more. Martin’s team of fastening experts know how to find the right fit for your facility. We offer custom-tailored solutions to find an efficient and cost-effective solution that meets your needs. To meet with our team and learn more, contact your Martin Sales Rep or call 800.828.8116.

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Enhancing Efficiency: The Transformation of a Stamping Plant’s CNC Machine https://martinsupply.com/enhancing-efficiency-the-transformation-of-a-stamping-plants-cnc-machine/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=enhancing-efficiency-the-transformation-of-a-stamping-plants-cnc-machine Tue, 30 Jan 2024 15:49:44 +0000 https://martinsupply.com/?p=22931 Martin Supply was approached by a manufacturer who had severe problems with their CNC machine and, consequently, suffered significant losses. Martin’s industry experts began to investigate and find the root of the issue.

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Enhancing Efficiency: The Transformation of a Stamping Plant’s CNC Machine

The CNC machine required lengthy 4-day downtimes for heat treatment. It also had issues with foaming, which reduced visibility and increased cycle time. The CNC machine’s prolonged downtime and foaming complications significantly hindered operations. These repeating issues resulted in substantial costs during each downtime occurrence and would consistently halt production.

CNC Machining - Understanding Feeds and Speeds

CNC Machining: Understanding Feeds & Speeds

With so many issues in such a high-value machine, the Martin Team took great care to make sure each problem was taken care of thoroughly. Through their investigation, they discovered that the issues may stem from the coolant that was being used. After reviewing several options, they decided to change to a high performing, semi-synthetic coolant with multi-metal capabilities. The product was designed provide optimal tool life and surface finish while reducing foam in de-ionized water.

Changing the coolant resulted in a substantial reduction in downtime from 4 days to 2, which produces a cost saving of $2,000 per instance. The foaming issues were also reduced, greatly improving visibility during production. Cycle time was also improved from 12 to 6 minutes, accompanied by a 40% acceleration in machine performance. The change in coolant also improved tool life, cutting precision, and tapping capabilities. Overall, these changes translate into an annual cost saving of $360,000.

This example shows the value of bringing Martin to your facility and how changing one part of your process can lead to large gains. The selection of an appropriate coolant not only mitigated downtime and foaming concerns, but also improved the facility’s entire production process.

Martin Supply has experts on a wide range of industrial, fastening, and safety topics. We have the knowledge and willingness to find a custom-tailored solution that suits your needs, and a desire to continuously improve our work. To learn how Martin can help you, contact your Martin Sales Rep or call 800.828.8116.

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Meatpacking Industry Hazards and How to Prevent Them https://martinsupply.com/meatpacking-industry-hazards-and-how-to-prevent-them/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=meatpacking-industry-hazards-and-how-to-prevent-them Tue, 30 Jan 2024 15:30:13 +0000 https://martinsupply.com/?p=22924 Read this article on ways to prevent meatpacking industry hazards in the workplace. The equipment and environment can both be extremely dangerous, and proper instruction is key to preventing injury or harm.

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Meatpacking Industry Hazards and How to Prevent Them

Amputation is one of the more obvious hazards in this industry. Workers consistently work with saws and other sharp objects, as well as crushing and entrapment hazards that can all result in losing a limb or appendage. Fortunately, many of these injuries can be prevented. There are several OSHA regulations and other precautions you can follow to keep workers safe:

Machine guards should be placed over any moving parts of the equipment that may cause serious injury. This prevents people from accidentally touching or reaching into an amputation hazard. Machine guarding is often neglected, however, and is one of OSHA’s Top 10 Safety Violations of 2023.

When someone does have to approach an amputation hazard, the lockout/tagout process is necessary to prevent injury. This will remove all electrical, hydraulic, chemical, or other energy sources to prevent unexpected startup or release of stored energy.

Workers who are exposed to amputation hazards should be given annual safety training. OSHA requires that workers be regularly taught how to handle and avoid workplace hazards. Making sure your team is educated on the dangers of their environment is the best way to avoid incidents on the job.

Working with raw meats can leave workers susceptible to a number of diseases and illnesses. Exposure to biological agents can happen during slaughter or when handling fresh meats. This can result in the flu, skin infections, stomach infections, sepsis, meningitis, and more. The best way for workers to protect themselves is by wearing well-fitted personal protective equipment (PPE).

Waterproof gloves, goggles, and face masks are key PPE to prevent bacteria from infecting your team. Those products can either be bought individually, or they can be packaged together as a kit for new employees. Antibacterial soaps and other items for personal hygiene should also be readily available.

In an environment where bacteria and raw foods are prominent, strong cleaning chemicals are necessary. Peracetic acid, chlorine, and hydrogen peroxide are all chemicals that are commonly used to clean, which can cause irritation of the throat, eyes, and nose. Carbon dioxide and ammonia are also used in refrigeration, which can cause serious health issues as well.

Once again, PPE is the best way to make sure these chemicals are not inhaled or ingested. If they do cause issues though, your facility should be prepared. Safety data sheets should contain comprehensive information about the chemicals and how they should be treated in an emergency situation. Eyewash stations are also a helpful tool to avoid permanent damage to a person’s eyes when handling chemicals.

Martin Supply can provide access to a wide variety of PPE and other safety equipment, as well as cleaning supplies and more. Martin’s Safety Professionals are also qualified to offer OSHA-certified safety trainings and audits. To learn more, contact your Martin Sales Rep or call 800.828.8116.

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