That Was Quick

As this year draws to a close, the U.S. economic picture is much better than it was one short year ago. Looking back over the past couple of years, our industry has faced many challenges but in the end has fashioned leaner, more productive businesses that are better able to compete in the global marketplace. And even if you do not sell your products or services to overseas customers, you are probably competing for your domestic customer’s business with potential international suppliers.

Our goal is to be a resource to help you better compete domestically and internationally. This past year we featured many interesting articles written by leading suppliers in our industry. From the latest in plastic materials to fabricating techniques and machinery, they offer vast resources of information to help you stay current and competitive. And all that information is just a couple of mouse clicks away at www.plasticsmag.com. Our keyword searchable archive contains over four years of back issues. From sawing, routing, welding and finishing to thermoforming and emerging markets, you can find answers to many of your questions. In addition, the online version of our 2004 Buyer’s Guide is keyword searchable and provides links to over 100 leading suppliers for our industry.

Looking ahead, we have many exciting features planned for the new year. From plastic pipe to highly engineered plastic materials and cutting edge machinery to aid in the fabrication and assembly of plastic parts and products, we will cover a diverse range of subjects to help you serve a wide range of industries. Our Thermoforming and Routing Series will also be back.

Are you getting the most out of your CNC router? When was the last time you checked the collet? Proper Colleting and Collet Maintenance are key factors in the routing of plastics. Van Niser provides some helpful guidelines that will insure that the finish of your parts is not jeopardized.

In Safety Solutions, Jack Podojil reminds us that with the change of seasons comes a change in driving conditions and practices. Have you ever thought of your vehicle as a tool? By following the old Scout motto: “Be Prepared,” you can make sure your tool is in top shape whether it is to transport you to work or your products to your customers. Finally, we would like to wish all of our contributors and readers a safe, happy holiday season and a healthy and prosperous new year.

Enjoy the issue,