The American defense industry is responsible for the development and production of some of the most advanced military equipment in the world. The industry relies heavily on the use of precision manufacturing technologies such as CNC machining to create complex and critical parts for military applications.

Many manufacturers find niches supplying single industries, especially when those industries have an outsized local footprint. However, supplying parts for an end market can turn a niche into a rut if that market experiences economic hardships. Many shops have learned to diversify their customer bases over the years, but it can be difficult to ensure a shop is in compliance with the standards of an unfamiliar industry. Some shops are turning toward software solutions to help make up for this lack of experience in different end markets.

Industrious do-it-yourselfers have found some success with the milling process using an at-home drill press to create a DIY approach to process milling, however industrial milling machines provide versatility in the production process and can perform a number of different functions.

Coordinate measuring machines are often used in manufacturing industries because of their ability to provide high accuracy measurement capabilities. The Keyence Wide Angle CCM goes beyond this with added portability and measurements tracked over seven probe markers to provide high measurement accuracy over up to 49 foot lengths.

Metals that have been anodized are better suited for use in situations with high heat and extreme light, with black anodized materials exceptionally suited for use with spacecraft, optical devices, and healthcare equipment.

Quickly establishing its role in the manufacturing industries, 3D printing has gone from being a novelty to an essential part of research and development for many enterprises.