Drag-and-drop part models to nesting, laser, punch press, and press brake modules, and even to a sheet-metal ERP system, with this software built on a 3D CAD kernel. This is the press-brake section.

Technical advances have led to some overlap between these two processes, but the fundamental advantages of each remain intact. This comparison by two experts reviews the basics and updates the range of applications for laser and waterjet.

Press brakes and folding machines can and should coexist on the fabrication floor. Each machine type is application-driven.

Evaluating Enterprise Resource Planning software for your shop or plant starts either with testimonials from users, or with a front-to-back tutorial about how it works and what it can do for you. We recommend starting with testimonials. They’re like sneaking a peek at the end of a novel before deciding if it’s worth reading. But in this case, it’s not cheating; it’s looking ahead to see where it all leads you. Here’s one example.

OK, so the idea of an eye in every pocket may be a little creepy. But it’s a tool that’s becoming ever-more valuable for quick documentation of parts; barcode scans; and communication between shop floor and management. Soon, we’ll wonder how we got along without them.

This 120-in. CNC table for a Sunrise ironworker makes manually laying out 10-ft. angle a thing of the past.