Industry News
Worldwide Steel Output Remains Strong
by Ilya Leybovich, Oct 27, 2011, Thomas Net Industry News
Worldwide Crude Steel Outputs: Aug 2011 – 125 million metric tons, Sept 2011 – 124 million metric tons.
In spite of the September drop in global crude steel production and month-to-month slowdown in several key steel-producing regions last month (September 2011), the forecast remains strong for the global steel sector. Currently, U.S. steelmakers have produced 64.7 million metric tons of crude steel (which is 6.2 percent more than the same period of 2010).
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U.S. Industrial Manufacturers are Optimistic about 2011
by David R. Butcher, Thomas Net Industry News
Following higher-than-expected 2010 Q4 results, U.S. industrial manufacturers are optimistic about this year in both domestic and global markets. Key points that were reported by OEMs include early signs of new hiring, stronger revenue forecasts and flexibility in pricing.
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CPO Priority: Value Over Costs
by David R. Butcher, Thomas Net Industry News
After the deep economic crisis of the last few years, cost-cutting initiatives are just as strong as other top priorities for chief procurement offices and buyers. To survive during 2009 and 2010, many organizations focused on cost reductions. For 2011, a new emphasis is shifting towards strategies that will enhance long-term values.
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How Often Do You Evaluate Your Suppliers?
by Carolyn M. Brown, Inc.com
Key recommendations for rating your suppliers include setting performance criteria, developing an evaluation method, assigning responsibilities, maintaining a strong relationship, noticing any red flags, and knowing when to cut them loose. Learn more details about what constitutes a healthy, profitable relationship with your suppliers and how to evaluate them… the Full industry article
Faster RPMs Produce Faster Turnaround
To accommodate customer demands, it’s common to adjust machining processes. This case study shows examples of metalworking shops being flexible to keep customers happy. Read full article.
Robotic Stress Measurement for Gears
Xstress System by Stresstech Oy provides robotic measurement capabilities for residual stress and retained austenite in gears, threads and other curved surfaces or complex parts. Earlier this year, Metal Finishing News interviewed StressTech Oy President Lasse Suominen. Read full article about his discussion on Full-Service Stress Testing.
2011 Midwest Forecast
Economy headed in the right direction
There are faint glimmers of hope that next year will be another small step on the long, steep road to recovery.
In December 2010, Mike Larson’s article in Midwest Construction magazine reviewed the signs in the economy pointing the way for a 2011 improvement in construction activity. If you’re serving that industy, check out his overview.
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First Look at 2011 Forecast
A close look at the mining and construction equipment markets
“My first look at 2011 is for a
10% improvement.”
To learn the details supporting Frank Manfredi’s predictions, read his February 16, 2011 article on OEM Off-Highway.
Read full article.