Posts by Matthew Flowers
Biodegradable Resins: The Benefits and Challenges of this Solution
From pill bottles and life-saving medical equipment to business-essential tools and household appliances, there are uncountable numbers of products that manufacturers make out of plastic. Polymers are truly exceptional materials. While plastic will likely always have a place in our lives, it’s clear that our over-reliance on it has severely impacted our planet. Thankfully, biodegradable…
Read More3D Metal Printing: The Sustainable Manufacturing Solution Companies Need
3D metal printing, also known as additive manufacturing (AM), is radically changing the manufacturing sector. Not only is it unlocking new levels of productivity, affordability, and agility, but it may also be the key to long-term sustainability. If you’re looking for a solution that can help maximize your bottom line while minimizing your carbon footprint,…
Read More18 Essential Additive Manufacturing Terms You Need to Know
From binder jetting and directed energy deposition to photopolymerization and powder bed fusion, the jargon around additive manufacturing can be challenging to keep straight. To help alleviate some of the confusion, Anova Innovations breaks down some of the most essential industry terms. For manufacturing veterans, this piece can be a useful refresher. For the newcomers,…
Read MoreWhat Is the Difference Between Subtractive and Additive Manufacturing?
Depending on what stage of manufacturing you specialize in, you may have heard people talking about additive manufacturing. If you’re curious about the difference between subtractive and additive manufacturing, Anova Innovations is here to help. In this piece, we’ll clearly define both manufacturing processes and highlight the pros and cons of each, with an emphasis…
Read MoreCase Study Part 2: Simulating Molds for Conformal Cooling Capabilities
In Part 1 of this case study, a plastic parts manufacturer was looking to upgrade a traditional mold for pharmaceutical pill bottles. Part 1 highlighted how engineering calculations are used as part of the mold design process to quickly assess the capabilities of various design options. In that study, Anova Innovations compared four different cores…
Read MoreCase Study Part 1: The Design Process for Conformal Cooling
There is a multitude of metrics that manufacturers have to balance when working through the design process for conformal cooling applications. From the uniformity of the steel temperature across the mold stack up to how efficient the cooling process is, it’s critical to evaluate all components. However, the core is often the most vital. If…
Read MoreFilling the Skills Gap: How Anova Innovations Tapped into New Growth Potential
The Covid-19 pandemic eliminated 1.4 million jobs in manufacturing. In an industry that was already facing a shortage of skilled workers before 2020, the shutdowns brought a whole host of challenges that are still being dealt with over two years later. Though over 800,000 workers returned to their positions when states lifted restrictions, 500,000 jobs…
Read More4 Eco-Friendly & Commercial Benefits of Conformal Cooling for Manufacturers
With the push in recent years to focus on more environmentally-friendly products, many producers are turning their attention to alternatives. Specifically, bio-based materials. The problem is, processing these materials presents certain unique challenges in extended cycle times, compressed processing windows, and dimensional uncertainties. However, advances in additive manufacturing via conformal cooling are unlocking a myriad…
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