State of the Industry

The outlook for our industry is bright and reports continue to be positive. The fabricators I have spoken to say they are busy and are seeing an increase in parts they are machining going into the manufacturing sector. Manufacturing is picking up in response to increased consumer demand. This increase in manufacturing should in-turn lead to a decrease in unemployment and a continued increase in consumer demand.

Now add the material suppliers and tooling and machinery manufacturers that we work with who are also seeing a steady increase in business. These are all positive signs not only for our industry but for the economy in general.

But where is your new business going to come from? The challenge is to continue to find new niches in the ever changing landscape of a growing global economy. By taking an inventory of what you know and do best, you can re-invent yourself to find new opportunities for your company.

To help meet the demands increased business will have on yourshop, this month we spotlight Fabrication Machinery & Tooling. This special section features everything from multi-axis CNC routers and panel saws to edge polishers and a wide variety of tooling to meet all your cutting needs. Manufacturers and suppliers to the plastic fabrication industry continue to innovate and offer better products for you to cut plastic. From versatile cutting and polishing equipment to precision tooling that will offer better edge finishes and less secondary processing, it's a great time to be cutting plastics.

And when it comes to meeting the needs of running today's CNC routers, the control can make all the difference. Click on It's in the Control to read how user-friendly and flexible the controls have become on today's CNC routers.

Lastly, in Safety Solutions, Jack Podojil says it's time to review your Safety & Health Program. Everyday, workplace injuries, illnesses and fatalities cause pain and suffering. An effective Safety and Health Management System can help reduce these incidences.

The state of our industry is good. The global marketplace that we now compete in has also brought more opportunity to our door. The U.S. is still the largest and most prosperous economy in the world. You know what it takes to compete. You need to "out innovate" your competition. This issue provides you with some new tools and ideas that will help you meet those challenges.

To find even more tools and resources search our twelve year article archive of plastics, equipment and supplies. You can also use eReader Service to contact our advertisers or manage your subscription.

Enjoy the issue,

Coming March/April 2011
Polyolefins
Signs & P.O.P.
Ad/Edit Close: 02/21/11
Material Close: 02/28/11