Evolving technology, such as carbon nanotubes, fiber optics and printed electrical systems, may provide the backbone of future electrical distribution systems in cars, trucks, locomotives, aircraft and other vehicles.

In his recent State of the Union address, President Obama challenged Americans to be more innovative. That means developing new materials, new products and new production processes. To tackle that challenge, manufacturing engineers must harness the power of “smart assembly” tools and systems.

Many manufacturers want to be a Star, regardless of how long they’ve been in business or the products they make. Since July 1982, OSHA has helped thousands of manufacturers become a Star through its Voluntary Protection Programs.

Although many people use training and education interchangeably, the words don’t mean the same thing.

The Reshoring Initiative aims to educate manufacturers about the true costs of outsourcing.

Aluminum wire and cable can be more difficult to feed, cut, crimp, strip and splice than its copper counterparts. However, numerous processing methods are currently under investigation.

Recent price fluctuations have forced some manufacturers to consider alternatives to copper wire, such as copper-clad aluminum, solid-core aluminum and composite wire.

A new process, friction spot joining, has been developed to produce lap joints in aluminum sheets.