The World of Modern Manufacturing: Is There a Stopping Point?

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Modern manufacturing companies across the globe continue to innovate their industries with its ability to morph from impossibilities into legitimate and precise, computer-controlled results. The introduction of the computer was the catalyst driving society to recognize our potential for incredible growth. United Scientific Inc. has been in business for over 70 years utilizing the very best for their customers, call today to get started!

There are computer-controlled manufacturing methods today, known as computer numerical control or CNC as opposed to the labor-intensive and incredibly unsafe practices of the industry’s first revolution. We are now in the fourth, known as industry 4.0 referenced on-the-dot for the integration of computers into manufacturing. 

Subtractive, additive and formative are methods of manufacturing used in the 21st century by businesses depending on their field. United Scientific Inc in St. Paul, MN uses top-of-the-line equipment, including the highly trained quality control department. The quality control department ensures every order is filled and delivered on time, as it should be. 

Types of manufacturing

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Additive, subtractive, and formative methods are the three categories of manufacturing. 

Subtractive manufacturing is the most utilized type of production today. Although 3-D printing has had many strides in the last decade, the cost and manufacturing time have held 3-D printing back from entering the mainstream on a full scale. 

3-D printing is a type of additive manufacturing – adding material layer by layer to eventually build a product. Powder metal is one substance used in additive manufacturing or 3-D printing, layering the material layer by layer until the design is complete. This method is captivating, although too slow to compete with the widely used subtractive process combined with the CNC machine.

The opposite is Subtractive method – removing material from the object the machine is shaping. Removing the subject medium being the most efficient type is utilized by several means, including laser and router. Computerized Numerical Control devices are often used in modern manufacturing for items such as gears, proprietary designs, everyday bolts, and collaborate designs. 

Third, Formulative manufacturing – this is molding or casting material to solidify into negative space, forming a positive result. Resin molds are popular these days, as well as an example of a formative method of production. The resin is poured into a mold and left to solidify, leaving the positive image. 

Products you would see created with these methods commercially use a CNC machine, machinist, and programmer for quality and quantity efficiency. Machinist learns the individual devices they use in conjunction with the CNC component. United Scientific Inc., for example, makes sure their employees are well informed, trained, and certified for their state-of-the-art equipment. 

What is Relatable to Me?

CNC projects or products are most commonly internal parts of a whole, also known as subtractive manufacturing. The general public would see a CNC router, producing engraved wooden signs in contrast to hand-carved signs seldom produced. Routers can create some artistic pieces using a variety of materials. Everyday modern items you need a CNC device to produce: 

  • Your smartphone
  • Aeronautics
  • Military equipment
  • Weaponry
  • Production line machines
  • Vehicles
  • Medical equipment
  • Some styles of artwork

The items listed above are the completed product in which computer-controlled machines cut, lathe, mill, and drill on several axes’ for the unbelievably fast result in modern manufacturing today. Given this technology and the introduction of the additive method 3-D printing, we are to expect surprising things in the future. We may even see flying cars from The Jetsons finally. 

CNC machines in modern manufacturing are rapidly filling the demand of other manufacturers and advancing their output. Integral components created using computer-assisted technology has grown the industry, making parts efficiently, giving the end-user access to products once unavailable. The ability to mass-produce a mechanism is a great leap forward for humankind. 

On a Serious Note

Modern manufacturing is at the beginning of a historical jump into the future. Science is at the forefront of this innovation craze, tech science to be precise. Artificial intelligence has been introduced on a publically usable scale, something we could not fathom without the technology innovations of the last few decades. A computer and printer can be the future of manufacturing, sending objects through a data stream printing on the other side.

We are witnessing the first-ever devices, such as Google Assistant and Siri, the general public can experience in their own homes. These machines continue to learn the habits of its user, sometimes knowing what you need before you do. Environment concerns will propel the modern manufacturer to upgrade and innovate, thus a need for additional development, safer equipment, and quicker turn-around times. 

To Sum it Up

In terms of technology advances for manufacturers and the public alike, there are no limitations. Scientists, innovators, manufacturers, and programmers have created a new world to understand. Our goal as humans is to advance our knowledge, expand the possibilities in our minds, and explore the depth of so-called limitations we used to believe wholeheartedly.

Artsy CNC projects are fun and exciting at home with the right tools, equipment, and flare for computer design programs. The non-artsy person can dive into the world of creating by learning the software and applying it to their potential art! If you require large amounts of product, product storage, or design expertise, call United Scientific Inc. for your manufacturing requirements. Their results speak volumes. 

Continuing population growth will ensure the need for manufacturing far into the future. Clearly stated there is no stopping point for our imaginations. The world of modern manufacturing will only grow – growing into a future we may not be able to imagine just yet. With 3-D printing well on its way to becoming a resource for building, we may see the far future sooner than we could have dreamed. 

CNC Career Training: Work in an Exploding Field

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Do you love working with computers and using technology to create? Do you enjoy using your imagination to solve seemingly unsolvable problems? Do you hate working just to make ends meet? If so, a CNC Machinist career is perfect for you.

United Scientific Inc. can help you get the CNC Machine training you need to become a highly-skilled CNC Machinist.  

WHAT IS CNC?
Industries worldwide have used Computer Numerical Control since the 1940s, though many people have never heard of CNC.

Before the arrival of advanced CNC machining, various manufacturing aspects such as mills, drills, and routers needed operators. The operators read specifications and drawings to determine the best and quickest approach to create and produce the necessary parts.

Technological advancements, such as 3D printing, led to many improvements to industries worldwide. Today, instead of manually administering every step in the manufacturing process, CNC Machinists can simply program CNC machines to interpret CAD files.

As a CNC Machinist, you’ll play an indispensable part in manufacturing processes. 

WHAT DOES A CNC MACHINIST DO?

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As a CNC Machinist/Programmer, you’ll use computers and the latest manufacturing technology to produce parts and products for a multitude of diverse industries and companies. 

CNC Machinists often use blueprints and 3-dimensional computer technology to develop the software used to create the parts and products used in everything from the aerospace industry to food services.

Computer integration and advanced automation have created a demand for more complicated parts and products to be produced faster than ever. 

If you work at or have worked at, an engineering or manufacturing company, you’ll no doubt work with CNC at some point. With the right credentials, you’ll earn promotions and gain more financial security and stability.

CNC EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK 

The CNC Machinist career field continues to grow every year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “employment of tool and die makers is projected to decline seven percent from 2016 to 2026.†

However, during the same time frame, new technological advancements and innovations, including CNC machining and programming, have created a need for employees with CNC machinist and programming skills. 

Employers continue to state the difficulties in finding employees with CNC machinists and programming skills. Entry-level positions offer immediate employment and an opportunity to attain valuable work experience as a CNC machinist.

The outlook for CNC Machinists sounds good, but success in the field first requires the necessary training.

CNC MACHINIST TRAINING

Education is often a crucial factor in finding excellent jobs. Although a degree or certificate in CNC machining isn’t quite a “must-have,†it does add a significant benefit in helping you get your foot in the door.  

The modern CNC Machinist needs to have the following skills at a minimal:

  • Basic understanding of electronics
  • Computer literacy
  • Knowledge of basic physics
  • Time Management
  • Problem-Solving Skills
  • Team Player

Employers are seeking individuals with formal training. Formal training may include apprenticeships, certification, or post-secondary training. Many employers, mostly for liability reasons, seldom hire machinists who don’t possess some type of formal training.

In the United States, many vocational training facilities and trade schools have incorporated courses accredited by the National Institute of Metalworking Skills. NIMS accreditation “is the nation’s only distinction for excellence in metalworking training as based on NIMS industry-written, industry-approved skills standards.â€

The majority of courses are designed to educate and provide hands-on instructions for various types of CNC topics. Some subjects include: 

  • Introduction to CNC Machines 
  • Basics of the CNC Mill 
  • Computer Numerical Control Fundamentals
  • Geometric Dimensions and Tolerancing 
  • CNC Manufacturing Shop Management
  • Lean Manufacturing 

Mastery of CNC Machinist and programing training offers multiple options for employment in different areas, including:

  • CNC programming
  • CAD-CAM system programing
  • CNC service technician
  • CNC applications engineers
  • CNC school instructor 
  • CNC Lathe Operator
  • Shop Supervisor
  • Management

If attending classes in a formal setting is not possible due to time constraints or budget, don’t fret. There are many online CNC training courses available, and some offer free video training.

Individuals should ensure they receive the skills and training needed to perform CNC machining whatever training method they choose. Training may include inspection and safety regulations, metal cutting, work holding, programming, and math.

CNC Machinists aren’t only in the manufacturing industries. As automation is a regular part of everyday life, it is not hard to imagine that CNC Machining technology is by industries affecting everyday life. These industries include:

  • Banking & ATMs. 
  • Transportation & Aerospace
  • Cell phone towers
  • Gas Stations
  • Agriculture
  • Smart Home automation
  • Medical 
  • Broadcasting/Television

As you train for your CNC Machinist certification, you’ll gain a wide array of skills, knowledge, and training to help keep the world running at peak efficiency. 

THE FUTURE OF CNC

From robotics to 3D printing, the global demand for CNC-machined products continues to grow as innovation and technology improve the way parts and products are manufactured. 

There is even a growing demand for At-Home CNC, offering small business to enhance its product development at faster and cheaper rates.

Being a CNC machinist can be a rewarding career for those with the right skillset. In today’s technology-dependent world, further automation of offices and factories, advances in the medical industry, and advanced scientific research will only continue to spark the demand for skilled CNC Machinist and programmers.

UNITED SCIENTIFIC INC

Here at United Scientific Inc., we “Manufacture Results,†firm in the belief that remaining “Scientific in Process, United in Purpose,†enhances our success rates. Located in St. Paul, Minnesota, we’ve built a solid reputation for being the best CNC and precision machining entity around. 

With dedication to machining the best precision products, we strive to prepare for future innovations and industry demands. At United Scientific,  having the right CNC machinists is essential to our success. Therefore, we are committed to hiring the best machinists, and programmers only help us stay at the forefront of the machining industry.  

Our machinists understand CNC tasks requires attention-to-detail and discipline. They know it requires focus and the ability to overcome obstacles to ensure we meet our clients’ specifications.

The world will continue to change as technology continues to improve and enhance our everyday lives. At United Scientific Inc, we will continue to evolve, and stay current with innovation, and prepare for the future. 

CALL US!
To learn more about our services, contact us at 651-483-1500, or email [email protected].