“Planned obsolescence” refers to the practice of building things with an intentionally limited lifespan. Computer software is a great example: the new updates of software can read old files, but they’re built to make sure that someone with an old version of the software can’t read files from the new version. Nylons were the classic… Read more »
It’s no secret that manufacturing has trouble keeping jobs filled. Possible reasons: The skills gap The average machinist is in his 50s and on the verge of retirement. The average millennial has a degree in psychology or history and isn’t that strong with math. So where will factories find skilled workers? Suggested answers range from… Read more »
Adidas opened a factory in Germany and one in the U.S. over the past two years, both of them very modern and automated. They’ve just confirmed that they will be ending production at those facilities and moving the machinery to Asia. The New York Post announced, “American robots lose jobs to Asian robots as Adidas… Read more »
Rexroth’s electric industrial automation division began when the company acquired Indramat in the 20th century. Rexroth brand names like “IndraDrive” and “IndraDyne” still honor Indramat, a revolutionary motion control company in its own right. If you see the word “Indramat” on an ailing servo, drive, or controller, you’re in luck. Rexroth continues to support most… Read more »
Reman, or remanufacturing, is one of your options when you’ve got a faulty servo motor, drive, or controller. Is it your best option? Certainly, reman can save you money. But you might be surprised to hear that reman can be better than new. Legacy parts With legacy parts, you don’t have the option of buying… Read more »
The Wall Street Journal reports that plenty of retailers, warehouses, and logistics companies are gearing up for the holiday season by hiring tens of thousands of human workers. This happens every year, and it really isn’t news. “Surge” workers help out in the holiday season when retail and related industries may see demand increase tenfold…. Read more »
