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Technology advancements in manufacturing are often focused on enhancing efficiency and product quality. As these technologies continue to flourish and connect manufacturing more and more with the “Internet of Things” (IoT), it’s important for these advancements to be equipped with proper security to protect manufacturers and their customers. In the age of what many call the Fourth Industrial Revolution—or “Industry 4.0”—efficiency and security are both vital to sustaining the growth of new technologies in the manufacturing industry. What is Industry 4.0? In terms of manufacturing, Industry 4.0 is all about how technology is furthering the industry in terms of [...]

There are many challenges facing the manufacturing ecosystem today, especially when it comes to automotive manufacturing. When sales are down, as can be the case during the ups and downs of an election year, automotive manufacturers must keep up with production and product quality and always be prepared for a surge in the market. Challenges in the Automotive Industry Today The automotive industry is still experiencing some of the aftereffects of COVID-19 production challenges. Some consumers continue to shy away from buying new vehicles, hanging onto their older cars as they wait to see where the market goes and [...]

As an automotive parts manufacturer, American Manufacturing sits right in the center of the automotive industry's supply chain. In this unique position, we both work with suppliers and work as a supplier, burning the candle at both ends while making sure it never runs out of wax. Supply chain optimization in manufacturing is about more than scenario planning and generating consistent lead times. Explore how our processes at American Manufacturing are intentionally built to optimize our portion of the supply chain. Optimizing Technologies Using the latest in manufacturing technology allows us to increase productivity and improve lead time. By [...]

Global trade policies are designed to regulate trade with foreign countries, establish standards like tariffs and subsidies, and influence trade practices. These policies significantly impact the manufacturing industry, often affecting where manufacturing occurs due to varying costs and regulations. All it takes is a brief glance at the headlines: global trade policies are ever-evolving, and market conditions are ever-changing. Manufacturers continue to face pressure from the ongoing trade shifts. And for long-term success, automotive manufacturers should have a comprehensive long-term strategy in place, which helps build resilience in the face of shifting trade landscapes. Levels of Manufacturing and Labor [...]

Some amount of waste is inevitable in the automotive industry, but here at American Manufacturing, we are always looking for new ways to reduce waste and increase production efficiency. Not only is waste reduction important for the environment, but it’s also crucial in how we improve our bottom line and deliver to our customers, with innovative approaches that reduce all manner of waste, from scraps and landfills to time and labor. Automotive Then and Now: How Waste Reduction Has Evolved Waste reduction has become a hot topic in the automotive world as companies seek better ways to handle production [...]

The automation and robotic forces at American Manufacturing continue to grow. At the end of last year, we introduced cobots to our welding workforce. Now we’ve added another layer of automation to the manufacturing process with our new Trumpf Robotic Bending Cell. What is a Bending Cell? A robotic bending cell combines a standalone brake press with both a toolmaster and a robotic arm that moves parts through the process. The toolmaster automatically feeds the punch and die into the cell without any human interaction. Then, the robot picks up parts off of pallets within the cell and bends [...]

Automation and AI are changing the way we approach manufacturing, streamlining processes and allowing for even greater precision and efficiency. Our American Manufacturing factories are considered “smart factories,” which means our systems and machines are all digitally connected, driving greater automation and flexibility. Let’s take a look at some key ways that technology has driven the evolution of smart factories.Then and Now: From Old Presses to Computer AutomationDecades ago, manufacturing had its limits. Machines didn’t have internal computer systems, and relied heavily on operators to set the pace. But today, the entire operation can be programmed and run digitally. The [...]

To ensure a safe working environment and quality products, manufacturers are held to certain safety compliance standards. These may also extend to environmental concerns to make manufacturing processes more eco-friendly. At American Manufacturing, we care about keeping our employees safe and going the extra mile to ensure streamlined operations that save our customers valuable time and money.Here’s an inside look at how we incorporate safety into every aspect of the American Manufacturing workplace and some of the innovations in manufacturing safety that we’re excited about.Safety Compliance at American ManufacturingWe care about keeping our workplace as safe as possible, as this [...]

The automotive industry is ever-evolving, from manufacturing processes to end products. Much of this innovation occurs thanks to emerging technologies that set the stage for more efficient and high-quality manufacturing processes and results. Sometimes the opposite occurs, and the technology is informed by trends in consumer interests that push the automotive industry to change their way of thinking.As we look at what’s on the horizon in the automotive industry, two major trends are influencing how we approach automotive manufacturing: environmental consciousness and automation. Let’s take a look at how these trends are impacting the automotive industry and why it’s important [...]

Quality control is essential throughout the development, building and distribution of any product. It ensures that the end customer gets the best possible product that won’t fail during use—something especially important for products that could lead to safety hazards if faulty. The manufacturing industry is the frontline of quality for many essential parts and products, making innovations in quality control valuable assets for successful manufacturing. Let’s explore why quality control is so significant, and how we focus on it here at American Manufacturing.Why Quality Control MattersQuality control increases product quality and reliability while decreasing the risk of failures or defective [...]