I’m all for auto workers getting paid, but the UAW’s demands this time around seem a bit much. I can’t see how the OEMs will be able to meet them, and I worry about the implications for the economy. The 2019 strike lasted more than a month, and a prolonged strike now could jeopardize the economic recovery.

New adhesives have been formulated for bonding electronics, EV motors and stainless steel.

Because automation can produce more with less, it can help domestic manufacturers compete with low-cost overseas labor. It’s certainly a valid premise. But, like golf, dancing, baking bread or cutting dovetails by hand, implementing automation is harder than it looks.

The MC64M-LT industrial shock absorber from ACE Controls Inc. is designed for use in extreme temperatures.

Cartesian gantry system feeds bolts, threaded bushings and support plates to injection molding machine.

Oregon startup increases productivity by improving design, getting lean, and automating assembly.

The advantages of robotic assembly can be negated by poor fixturing or parts that slip out of grippers.

With their high speed, high accuracy, versatility and compact form factor, SCARAs are ideal for automation systems.

For many applications, a SCARA or six-axis robot is overkill.

Next-gen sensors are robust and easy to install.