Stecker Machine Blog

Maximize Cut Tools and Minimize Spend

12/15/2020 | Dave Rupp

Top performing CNC Tool Cribs maximize cut tooling effectiveness while minimizing spending on inventory and overhead. There is a fine line to walk between having the right cut tools ready at all times to keep CNC spindles turning and minimizing spending. 

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How Are CNC Fixtures the Key to CNC Machine Operators’ Success?

11/30/2020 | Dave Orth

No one appreciates having “the right tool for the job” more than CNC machine operators. Yet, in order for any tool to do its job properly, the right CNC fixture (also called a CNC workholding fixture) has to secure and stabilize whatever piece is being worked on during CNC machining.

Fixturing is complex and can be quite challenging. Engineers who love tough tasks embrace the challenge, knowing how important fixturing is in CNC machining. In addition to expert engineering, making reliable CNC fixtures also requires some science, a bit of art, and solid teamwork.

Stecker Machine designs CNC fixtures following a process developed from decades of experience incorporating critical attention to detail. Our CNC fixture engineering process goes beyond designing with CAD tools like Solidworks, ProEngineer, or AutoCAD.

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Why Machine Shop Family Ownership Matters

10/28/2020 | Matt Oswald

Does "family ownership" really matter to the average worker? More specifically, does it matter in a machine shop environment? Yes, Employees of most family-owned brands are generally happier and more productive. They feel better about their jobs, and it shows in their work. 

So, does that translate to customers, too? Yes again, family businesses are the most trusted, according to an Edelman Trust Barometer survey. And, according to Family Business Magazine, 60% of customers said they prefer to buy from family businesses.

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4 Takeaways from ISO/IATF Audit

09/14/2020 | Brian Theisen

Product quality can make or break a company. Stecker Machine's growth is largely attributed to our customer focus and commitment to quality. We explore four key takeaways from our recent ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 Quality Surveillance Audit. 

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CNC Machine Training: Strategies, Schedules, and Success

04/21/2020 | Tom Sprang

Pre-programmed computer software dictates the movements of a milling machine, lathe, robot, or other types of machines. Precision can be incredible — cutting to 0.001” or about 1/4 the width of a human hair — and their repeatability makes CNC machining so efficient.

That complexity may intimidate someone unfamiliar with CNC machine operations, but it shouldn’t. Expert CNC machine training can quickly get a new operator up to speed, producing precise and valuable machined parts and components.

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2020 CNC Machining Industry Outlook: Customers, Market, Technology, & People

02/05/2020 | Brad Kurtzweil

Involved in the CNC machining market? Take a quick look at our CNC machining industry outlook for 2020.

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The 4 Most Important Tips to Advancing Your CNC Manufacturing Career Path

10/30/2019 | Tom Sprang

What was it about this article’s title that grabbed you?

You must be either currently in or interested in CNC manufacturing. With demand sky high and modern CNC machine shops being as safe, clean, and worker-friendly as ever, it’s a smart career path that pays better than many other jobs.

Before jumping into the career tips, we want you to know about other blog topics that you may find interesting:

OK, how can you advance your CNC manufacturing career path? Here are 4 proven tips:

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Stecker Machine Company Expands Facility to Meet Customer Machining and Assembly Needs

07/26/2019 | Brad Kurtzweil

Stecker Machine Company, IATF 16949 and ISO 9001 certified, high-precision CNC machining company, recently completed a 77,700-square-foot addition to the company’s second facility to meet growing customer demand for high-quality, accurate machining and assembly. The Butler® pre-engineered steel structure was constructed by Manitowoc’s A.C.E. Building Service, the project’s design and build contractor.

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