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Adding Additive Manufacturing to Our Machine Shop

Have you ever imagined something that you wished you could build and test right away? Are you seeking an quick, inexpensive way to manufacture small run parts?

Recently we decided to step into the world of additive manufacturing by adding a 3D printer to our job shop. We’re still in the early stages of learning this new tool, but we’re very excited about what it can do to improve service at ABF. Read on to discover a few of the many of the reasons we’re bringing this modern yet basic tool into a traditional machine shop.

First, it wasn’t difficult for our staff to jump right in and start building. Many of the steps associated with CNC machining and 3D printing are similar. In both cases, a solid model and computer programming knowledge is a must. But instead of the CAM software that create the toolpaths required by model, printers use built-in “slicing” algorithms to write the code needed to build.

Just a few of the experimental creations made by ABF employees on the new 3D printer.

By their nature, printers significantly reduce waste and use less energy. In conventional machining, material is removed and discarded to create a product, while with 3D printing, material is added as the product is built. This is why 3D printing is also called additive manufacturing.

For those concerned that 3D printing creates only inferior products, modern industrial 3D printers can utilize high quality materials to produce durable, reliable products. While there are benefits to working with plastic, a high-quality 3D printer is also capable of utilizing aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium.

3D printing can stimulate the creative process, inexpensively providing a way to work through several iterations of a concept while reducing time between prototypes. The quick turn around allows you to arrive at a functional product faster than traditional forms of prototyping.

ABF’s new Elegoo Mars printer

Both CNC machining and 3D printing can help shop owners keep overhead costs down by allowing us to make our own parts and repair our own machines. However, CNC machines are needed to fulfill larger and more lucrative customer orders, meaning it can be difficult and costly to find time to create individual parts for shop use.

3D printers are more efficient than CNC machines for manufacturing small quantities. Small businesses and inventors are always creating, solving problems or improving on existing products. While some small companies have the capital to afford their product’s initial creation, it doesn’t always mean that a job shop is willing to take on a small production run.

3D printers are a versatile and useful tool to add to a machine shop of any size, and we’re excited to branch into using this machinery at ABF. To find out if 3D printing might be right for your next project, email us for a quote at sales@abfeng.com.

Three Ways to Help Your Child Discover Robotics

Robotics is a branch of technology that deals with the making, programming, and designing of robots. For many, the definition sounds complicated and technical. Most of us don’t encounter robots in our daily lives. We think of this branch of science as something only those with advanced degrees can understand.

Nevertheless, robotics for kids remains one of the best hands-on and fun ways for children to learn STEM concepts. Even if parents cannot wrap their heads around robots and their inner workings, there is no reason why our kids cannot begin to explore the world of science through this interesting and appealing approach.

There are many ways to introduce children to the world of robotics without possessing the knowledge yourself; amazingly, some of these methods are both affordable and educational. Teachers and toy companies have made a parent’s job much easier; it is up to us to seize the chance to introduce our kids to a technology that can now be taught in a fun and engaging way.

There are a few things parents should know for their children to benefit from learning about robotics. Here are a few resources to help kickstart your child’s journey and improve their opportunities for success in school and beyond:

  • Understand why STEM education is important and why robotics is a great way to appeal to youth. While we may struggle to wrap our brains around the batteries, wires, and conduits of robot assembly, we can learn more about the core principals so we are better enabled to guide our kids to an appreciation of mechanical concepts and the scientific process. One place to begin is STEAM Powered Family.
  • Learn which robot toys, games, and apps are great educational supplements. This will allow parents to make informed and age appropriate choices when it comes to inspiring budding scientists and young engineers at home. Digital Trends has a great resource to help you find build-at-home kits. One excellent option, the Wonder Workshop has created Cue, Dot, and Dash, three programmable robots with age appropriate software to teach your children STEM concepts. For those on a budget, check out the robot app, The Robot Factory by Tinybop, available on iTunes.
  • Find educational programs to provide hand-on experiences and guidance. When it comes to a truly enriching experience, a great STEM program and robotics club can really help. Programs like FIRST®LEGO® League Jr. allow children to engage in exploratory research, hands-on construction, teamwork, imagination, and fun with LEGO elements. In this program, teams of up to six students explore real-world scientific concepts, then build a motorized model and develop a Show Me Poster to illustrate their journey of discovery. Throughout the season, adult coaches provide guidance and inspiration.

Visit the FIRST LEGO League website to find a LEGO® program near you, or find out what it takes to start a robotics program in your child’s school, check out this website. Children can also learn about other kinds of machines through LEGO educational programs. You can also visit the BostonTechMom blog to discover more about robotics teams and competitions for children of all ages and interest levels.

CCA STEM – EGG Drop
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