Automakers are often the driving force behind the latest product and process innovations in assembly. Case in point: European automakers have been using flow drilling screws since 1996 to assemble body panels and chassis made of aluminum and thin materials-which continue to gain favor to make cars lighter.
In today’s economy, manufacturers must find ways to assemble more product with less labor. As a result, they are increasingly using fully and semiautomatic screwdriving equipment to boost productivity and improve quality.
ASSEMBLY magazine is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. To mark the occasion, we are publishing a series of articles examining the past, present and future of various assembly technologies.
