Being in a position of leadership is a tough thing to learn. John & John go in depth about not only leading people in the proper direction but to also be a good leader to yourself. Grimsmo has been holding a super tight timeline to get Rask's back online while Saunders talks "Nuking" the shop. The boys mention an article here about "The soul of a new machine" By Tracey Kidder.
QUICK MATHS
The Johns have been Business of Machining it for 4.38 years (3.38 years recorded to be exact).
ROI Envy
Sometimes you get a machine, crank out parts, and make money right away. Sometimes you have to invest time to develop reliable processes and workflows. Grimsmo reminds himself that the KERN is not a job shop machine.
THAT HAS TO BE A KERN FILTER!
Click Image Below for Full Post
The question is, "how do you cheat the KERN and push it beyond those limitations?" Although the machine is incredibly accurate, Grimsmo still has to chase tolerances. To him, that's proof it's not just about the brand of the machine, it's about tooling, the machining strategy, and various factors that come into play when making parts. Finding out those limitations is key to getting the most out of the machine tool.
BITE-SIZE KERN?
When Saunders asked Marv if the Datron could outpace a KERN, the answer was revealed in this hilarious Instagram post. However, to Saunders, in terms of footprint, rigidity, and usability, the DATRON is pretty much a bite-size KERN.
Full Grimsmo Evolution
Grimsmo shares his story about trying to make a perfect carbide detent press with a PCD endmill. Sometimes entrepreneurs must be willing to bail on an idea or process that isn't working despite sunk time or costs. Full Grimsmo is starting to expand its meaning to more than just being in love with an idea.
Leadership Strategy and Tactics
TOOLHOLDERS
The Johns discuss REGO-FIX, shink fit, and hydraulic tool holders. Saunders adds that moving away from the bootstrap mentality is tough but it is necessary in some cases. If you buy the beat-down, cheaper version of what you need, that may create a negative perception of the process or how the equipment should be cared for--and that could cost more than buying the new item!
TruePATH + CAMplete
Grimsmo shares a "pucker moment" on the KERN. Saunders expresses his burning desire to have machine tool parameters set in CAM to avoid having to manually change them. While talking about TruePATH and CAMplete, the one thing they caution is to make sure you don't get used to ignoring the warnings!
JOHN: Cycle Start!
ST-20Y: "I'm sorry, John. I'm afraid I can't do that."
Saunders has a HAL 9000 moment where the lathe REFUSES to make a part! Let's just say it has to do with a spindle thermometer and a specific IF, THEN loop.
Scrapping Parts for Warm Ups - No Big Deal, Right?
As an entrepreneur, your attitude can push the business to unimaginable heights or it can blow up in your face. A seemingly innocuous approach to warming up a machine tool could end up translating to a major case of apathy and huge costs in wasted material for Grimsmo.
TORNOS - BARS. BEATS. BATTLESTAR GALACTICA.
What do you do when the machine's been making great parts all day long? You stay at the shop until 4am and feed it! Fraser confirms that the Tornos didn't stop running from Friday morning until Saturday afternoon.
URBAN LEGEND
Saunders shares an urban legend about a machine at IBM 30-40 years ago that, once commissioned, NEVER turned off the spindle for the entire duration of the machine tool's life. IF ANYONE HAS HEARD OF THIS, E-Mail businessofmachining@gmail.com
"Making parts and growing a business are very similar, just on different time frames." This week is all about learning the sometimes harsh reality of running a business like this. Admitting to yourself that a mistake has been made and what you can do as a person and business owner to correct that. The boys dive into Fusion 360 and all about colletizer.com
Here are the links for this weeks reference material:
Leadership book: https://amzn.to/30RZ9bG
CNC Manufacturing, Rigging Haas VF6ss Machines, Rasks, and a HARD Question You May Have Never Thought To Ask Yourself As An Entrepreneur!
"There are no PRIORITIES, only one PRIORITY."
During this weekly conversation about manufacturing, business, life balance, obstacles, solutions, and super technical, nerdy machining stuff, a lot is going on.
The SMW shop just got a little heavier. 45,000lbs to be exact. On Monday, twin Haas VF6ss machines arrived. Saunders shares his initial impression, what it was like for him and his team to rig the machines themselves, and the next steps in the process.
Proof that Everything is a Noodle
Since the machines arrived, that also meant the VM3 (SMW's first VMC) had to move. Now, the Z-axis automatic coolant switch needs some attention. They were able to get the machine leveled in thanks to two great videos: Haas video & AT-man Unlimited.
The ONE Thing
Grimsmo's been programming on the KERN but while trying to run a part yesterday, it didn't cooperate. Today, he's digging in to figure out why.
While thinking of the barrage of parts that eventually need to be made on the KERN, it's easy to get flustered and overwhelmed; however, Grimsmo has determined the SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT thing he can do for Grimsmo Knives right now---and yer gonna love it.
Living By The Modified Nike Slogan: Just Do It...NOW?
Saunders admits he's been a lot harder on himself lately when it comes to completing tasks from the infamous to-do list. For him, the list allows too much time for procrastination or some other negative emotional reaction. So, he sees it and does it immediately. The question is, is this sustainable and scalable?
WHO ARE YOU?
Some entrepreneurs never consider when starting a business, they should put themselves as the head of R&D and hire in a boss that handles the day-to-day operations & management of the company. Pocket NC did just that!
Bring Back The Million Dollar Question
Grimsmo's surprising answer to the limitless question, "What would you do if someone gave your company a million dollars?"
SYSTEMS & PROCESSES
MetalQuest left a lasting impression on Saunders. Behind the robots and machines is software and processes that culminate into one high functioning organizational system. On the same note, ALEX, the SMW custom inventory tracking, purchasing, & maintenance schedule software is evolving!
Click Image to Watch MetalQuest Tour
A very important message this week by Dale Carnegie on "How To Win Friends & Influence People". Saunders is also spending some valuable time getting ready for his two new VF6 machines. The boys talk about to do lists and being able to follow through and dealing with stress this week which is very important in not only in business but in life in general. They also dive into sales techniques and being in a leadership role. Grimsmo has been diving head first into learning tabbing on 5 axis parts.
"You're in the business of being in the business of a business!"
TOPICS:
- Leadership & Internalizing Advice
- Self-Reflection & The Last Dance
- Grimsmo's Delegating & the Tornos
- Lean Manufacturing
- ERP systems
- Credit reference tips
Leadership & Advice
Making the plans, the decisions, and having to steer the ship without a detailed map has its own set of unique struggles. The Johns mull over the abstract concepts of feedback, advice, and how timing and experiences affect their ability to receive and process it. Conviction behind the advice turns out to be a key concept.
A Flowery Moment of Truth
Fresh as a peach on the couch watching The Last Dance (a documentary about Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls), Saunders finds himself doubting Michael's empty gas tank. While digging up a rose bush, Saunders gets hit with some serious self-awareness. Click here for NYC CNC's Movie Recommendation List.
Hardcore Machining Stuff...Well, Sort Of.
The Johns usually get into nitty gritty machining detail but today, they find themselves inevitably back on the subject of business. The deeper they get, these topics seem less and less mutually exclusive!
Delegating, Teaching, & Administering Responsibility
Last week, Skye took the reigns of the Tornos; Grimsmo's definitive proof that he's growing as the leader of Grimsmo Knives. While he admits that handing responsibility over is difficult, he's very happy and excited about what this means for the future. Not to mention, Skye is crushing it!
Click Image To See Full Post
Lean Manufacturing Has Nuance (just like everything else)
After a night of lights out machining, Grimsmo arrives to find an oil spill and that brings forth discourse about chip conveyors and possible solutions. Lean manufacturing can be tricky to pinpoint. Being proactive about potential problems is certainly a part of it but going overboard is easy.
The old adage, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it," certainly applies here.
Even more, the solutions MUST be simple, scalable, and sustainable. In other words, "the juice must be worth the squeeze."
The Scope of Inventory Tracking
Part of entrepreneurship is defining the scope of problems your business can handle versus the problems it should handle. Conflicted about investing time to develop custom inventory and PO tracking software, Saunders reaches out to the lean master, Jay Pierson, and gets a surprising response. Kanban cards, bar codes, and simple PO generation are tossed around this theoretical ERP skull session.
Fusion 360 & Dr. Phil Experience (the awesome machinist, not talk-show host)
Stay tuned for in-depth adaptive CAM troubleshooting videos from NYC CNC. Speaking of Fusion 360, how the heck does Dr. Phil do that!?
Prompted by an IG story with "automate simple tasks" plastered on it, Saunders and Grimsmo can't help but marvel at Dr. Phil's ability to rapid prototype & machine complicated parts. Grimsmo's planning a YouTube video where they sift through his Fusion file--stay tuned! In the meantime, watch this incredible, free, Autodesk University Course by Dr. Phil on 5-Axis rapid prototyping.
Click Image Below For Dr. Phil's Awesome AU Course
Touch Points of Business - Interactions ARE Messages
Every interaction a client has with a business is considered a touch point. They can be anything from calling customer service to how easy it is to order products.
For instance, at the mention of ordering material for the KERN, it's abundantly clear that Grimsmo has stumbled upon a negative touch point surrounding credit reference forms. Luckily, Saunders has great tips on how to handle it!
The Bigger Picture
Negative interactions with other businesses tend to make you look more closely at your own. There is a clear difference in companies that care about customer experience and ones that don't. Each interaction, whether positive or negative sends an important message about who you are and what you value.
John & John slowly start getting back to "normal". Grimsmo knives are starting to get back to full operations again after a 7 week shut down. The boys take this time to reflect about organizing and managing their time. Saunders' also dabbles in "S tools" for organizing tools.
Here are all the instagram links as mentioned this episode!
Business of Machining: It may be simple and direct, but it's not forced or uncomfortable. BoM also happens to be a "subtle acronym" for Bill of Materials.
TOPICS:
- Naming businesses and products
- Asking For Advice: The Student Mindset
- Processes - Scalability & Sustainability
- Datron NEO - Sneeze Guards & ProvenCut
- Parting Off: CNC Lathes
- SAGA ON KERN?
Grimsmo and Saunders discuss what it's like to name products and companies. The next time you hear Bashing Strawberries, you'll know exactly what they mean.
Discord Group Chat Provokes Good Conversation & Deeper Musings
We're all hardwired to find information that validates our belief system and discount anything that contradicts it.
However, when asking for advice, we must learn to put our biases aside. On that note, Saunders shares a fitting and humbling book excerpt about maintaining a student mindset.
How To Get Things Done Well - Sustainable & Scalable
Are you the technician focused on specific day-to-day tasks, the slightly unhinged company visionary, or somewhere in between? Determining where you are along this spectrum can help you determine the next steps in your business.
Datron NEO - How You Doin'?
Saunders discusses what it's been like the past few months with a Datron NEO. Everything from the work envelope compared to machine footprint, spindle speed, and an intuitive control, Datron NEO gets two thumbs up from SMW.
Hey Marv, if you're listening, can a Datron outpace a KERN?
Should You Increase SFM Just Because?
Grimsmo wants to leverage a higher SFM but there is never free lunch.
PARTING IS SUCH SWEET SORROW...
Saunders shoulda got a 5-C. Holding 1/4" thick mod vise washer between the main and subspindle for parting off doesn't leave any room. Having to take an additional finishing pass on the part isn't ideal. Although a 20 second pass seems like no big deal is it scalable and sustainable? NO.
Speaking of Sustainable...
Grimsmo kicks around the idea of making the one-and done SAGA part on the KERN instead of the NAK and other ways improve production.
HELP! It's Too Simple for Technology!
Saunders needs help from YOU! If you know what would work best to solve his camera + monitor woes, he's all ears.
John might have had a little hiccup on the Kern. A work piece flew out of the vise. Don't worry, everything is good! The Boys also had a great chat about managing tool inventory in a shop. With some great references and a video that can be found here. John & John also chat in length about 5 axis parts and the qwerks of Fusion 360!
CNC Lathes, Mills, Manufacturing & Small Business
TOPICS
- CNC Lathe & Mill Trials and Errors
- Subspindle Stabilization Solutions
- 5-Axis Window Machining, Tabs, and Hot Glue
- A Different Workholding Solution You Might Not Have Tried
- Will the KERN make the Linda Wheel obsolete?
- Dovetail Workholding Instills Confidence
- Technician Time
- Shedding The Bootstrap Mindset
RAISING A BURR? DISH.
Saunders aims to avoid a post-machining deburr process for the square, tapered mod vise washers. He discusses the results of chamfering with the Harvey double-sided, double-angle cutter, using the subspindle and a 3D printed mandrel to stabilize the washer during part off, and a new idea that involves a 1" square collet.
Solutions Should Not Cause More Problems
When trying to improve machining strategies and workflow processes, make sure you're considering reliability, scalability, and poka-yoke. If the solution is clunky and prone to error, don't settle!
5-Axis Window Machining, Tabs, and Hot Glue
While touring Stewart-Haas Racing (video coming soon), the decal crew asked the V.P. of Operations, Tony Frazier, if their machine shop could fashion an aluminum decal squeegee and Saunders offered to help! He gears up to record voice over for the entire process. Although it's not a technique that lends itself to automation, Grimsmo still wants to have that trick in his back pocket!
A Workholding Solution You Might Have Never Tried
Saunders shares an awesome workholding technique when it comes to machining parts that are difficult to hold AND it can also provide reliable machining datum for Op 2.
Technician Time
Covid-19 lockdown might have some silver lining after all. Without distractions, Grimsmo finds himself getting very comfortable with the KERN in terms of probing, measuring, pallet changing, mounting vises to pallets, and making incredible progress on the rask knife tombstone fixture. Perhaps when the lockdown is lifted, there will be a new rask in the offering!
LINDA WHEEL OR SWARF!?
If you're a veteran of this podcast, you already know about the "Linda Wheel." The Linda Wheel Arrives in all the way back in Episode 12. The question is, will the KERN render the Linda Wheel obsolete?
Dovetail Workholding FTW
Remember that scary block of 4140? Grimsmo's now sold on dovetail workholding!
Bootstrapper Mindset Holding You Back?
When you're a bootstrapper by nature, the problem is you're using limits to plan while your business is growing! While this mindset does serve a great purpose, the trick is to know when to use it and when to abandon it.
Things are going well for both Grimsmo & Saunders! Saunders relaunched their website and saw their highest sales week! While Grimsmo has been getting more comfortable on the kern! Saunders' brings up a quote from his friend, "Possession is 90% of ownership". The boys also talk about "When you're faced with a tough decision, always choose the option that gives the customer the most confidence." This is a vital aspect of running any business and they weigh in on their thoughts on it!
Buying, Running, and Building Successful Businesses Around CNC Machines.
TOPICS:
- ST-20Y is back in business
- Tolerance Creep & Squeezing the Most Out Of Your Machine
- Tornos Lovejoy coupler slips during production
- GK Quarantine Vlogs - Second Nature Machining Tips and Tricks
- Finding Center Lines On A Y-Axis Lathe
- Fusion 360 NC Program Feature
- Simplifying Lathe Workflow - Lockwood's WCS & Container Method in Fusion 360
- Dovetail Workholding
- KERN - Tooling in Groups & Fusion 360 Cloud Library
Although the world is changing, one thing remains constant: the love of CNC machining!
Saunders is ecstatic to be reunited with the ST-20Y AND he's taking notes on how to get the absolute best parts the machine can produce.
Contrary to popular belief, you can't just buy a KERN, input the code, and have amazing parts appear. According to Grimsmo, the machine brand will only get you so far and the rest depends on tweaking and improving your process, even just that tiny bit more.
While lifestyle creep is to be avoided if possible, tolerance creep is definitely something you need!
Lovejoy Coupler Slips During Production
The year-old Tornos has been opened up to be serviced by Elliot Matsuura's technician. The coupler that attaches the motor to the ball screw is specifically designed to slip so nothing is ruined in the event of a crash; however, since the servo motors contain the enocders themselves, the machine is not aware of a mechanical slip, meaning it'll keep making parts out of spec until you catch it.
MAKE LATHES GREAT AGAIN
Grimsmo and Saunders hash out details on finding the center line on Y-Axis lathes. Grimsmo knows the best way takes a little more work but it's perfect every time.
Saunders has a do-while loop while he runs a certain number of parts. He shares how he wants to use a variable to streamline his post processor. Other ways to streamline and improve workflow come from Rob Lockwood. By implementing Lockwood's container method for programming parts and using a repeatable WCS, G55 stays put and the lengthy NC instructions on checking and setting offsets are a thing of the past!
Click Here for a Video on Part Programming Using Lockwood's Method.
KERN - Setting Up, Tooling, & Planning
Grimsmo hasn't cut anything on special K for a while. Is he allowing fear to hold him back? With a large chunk of steel that could fall and damage the machine, he's not sure if he can trust dovetail workholding.
Grimsmo shares how he wants the tools and sister tools to be organized and how he's using the Fusion 360 cloud library.
Up Your Confidence Bank
Each time you keep a promise to yourself, your confidence account gets a little raise. Although Saunders crashed the lathe, he didn't let shell-shock stop him from moving forward. The only way Grimsmo will get that raise is if he gets off this call and pushes cycle start!
John & John are still adjusting to working or in some cases, not working during COVID-19. Grimsmo is slowly integrating back into work but with very strict safety measures. While Saunders' continues to make PPE for the front line workers. The boys talk all about the different government loans in both Canada & USA and how to apply for them. John Grimsmo has been taking it way back in the old days of YouTube making daily vlogs. Saunders' CRASHED HIS LATHE :(
Two Small Manufacturing Business Entrepreneurs Learning to Navigate Covid-19.
With an uncertain time frame, Grimsmo and Saunders discuss the importance of looking ahead, monitoring your burn rate, and being ready to use available programs before the cushion runs out.
Grimsmo Knives made the decision to shut their shop in response to the non-essential business shut down order. That doesn't mean things aren't still progressing! Not only has he reached out to the Canadian government to offer GK's shop and skill sets, he's got time to LEARN THAT KERN--all in the name of the Rask!
Last episode, SMW had shut down the shop in response to the non-essential business shut down order BUT within the last week, he's busted his butt to figure out a way to be part of the solution.
DELVE reached out to have his shop manufacture face-shields, the Badger Shield to be exact. This well designed, open-source file gives SMW everything they need to make PPE the right way.
Click Here To Learn More About Operation #BadgerShield
Saunders shares his crazy experience with trying to secure materials to make it happen. The whole team is on board to help as many healthcare workers as possible.
If you have a machine shop, it's a good idea to see what you can provide in this great time of need. For Ohioans, go to https://repurposingproject.com/ to see how you can help.
TO THE LATHE, JENNAYYYY....
Saunders asks Grimsmo about whether or not wear comp on a static lathe tool should be updated in Fusion CAM or at the control.
While discussing the workflow for holding tight tolerances on the lathe, thermal expansion and tool wear enter the conversation.
5-Axis, Where Have You Been!?
All the recent lathe talk has been great and all but with Grimsmo about to get knee deep in the KERN, he needs some resources to learn Steep & Shallow in Fusion 360.
This weeks episode is a little different than our normal conversations. John & John talk all about the effects of COVID-19 in their personal life and business life. They take a quick detour to talk about higbee threads as well! Please everyone stay safe out there. Look after yourself and loved ones.
TOPICS:
- Thoughts on Covid-19 and small business
- The SAGA
- Solutions for breaking tools during internal threading
- Why You Need a Neon Vest In Your Shop
BREATHE. Yes, they talk about Coronavirus. Yes, they are washing their hands. What you won't find are hosts hoarding toilet paper or coming up with conspiracy theories. What you will find is hope and perseverance!
If you want to know how you can help fight Covid-19, please visit https://www.nyccnc.com/covid/
EDC > Safe Queen
During a hiking/shooting trip with a friend, Saunders notices a spectacularly crafted GK SAGA pen sticking out of his friend's shirt pocket. After spending some time outdoors, Saunders realizes he's lost his OWN SAGA...let's just say this pen has a SAGA of its own.
Grimsmo shares how the clips are uniquely and perfectly tensioned.
Internal Threading Problems
Sub-spindle threading cycle = Butt Clench 100
Find out why Saunders uses masking tape on the lathe.
Grimsmo switches to making knife thumb studs on the Tornos instead of the Nak. A very tiny threaded hole causes 5-6 tools worth of headache. He searches for the problem, only to kick himself later.
Grimsmo explains GO, NO-GO
Listen to the one and only Go, No-Go explanation that actually makes sense!
SMW Fixture Plate Tops
Now that all Pierson Workholding Mini Pallets are compatible with SMW Fixture plates, Saunders turns his attention to diamond dowel pins that require tight tolerances. When it comes to QC, keep it simple!
IN THE STUDIO
Fraser has fashioned a sweet sound-proof audio/visual room for GK videos and products!
NEON VESTS
What is it good for? Absolutely nothing---if it's not in use.
Have you ever wanted to listen to two grown men talk about a lathe like children in a candy store? Well this episode is for you. John Saunders goes in depth trying to make his first sub spindle lathe part. The boys also talk all about the mist collector situation at the Grimsmo shop and to not overlook the air quality. John Grimsmo also made a "production run" of 9 parts on the Kern!
TOPICS:
- 5-Axis Machining Generatively Designed Parts
- Tool life troubleshooting & solutions
- Steep & Shallow in Fusion 360
- McMaster Coolant Filtration Solutions
- Relieved Shank Endmills
- Shrink Fit, Set Screw, & Pull-Stud Extenders
SMW & MACHINING A GENERATIVE DESIGN PART
(Click Image to View Post)
In January, NYC CNC made trucks for a Datron longboard with a combination of 3-axis and 5-axis machining. However, they didn't stop there!
Gavin Bath from CADPRO Systems in New Zealand took the brunt of the work for modeling a generatively designed truck and now it's Saunders' turn to machine it!
Today, he'll hit cycle start on his first true simultaneous steep and shallow toolpath. He also shares an important lesson about work coordinate systems.
No Rush on the Naks
Grimsmo and his team settle into their new shop. Although the machines are up, the Naks still aren't making parts because of coolant line reconfiguration. Will they be forced to scramble or was it all part of the plan?
TORX KILLING TOOLS ON TORNOS
The 17-4 stainless pivot screws are proving to be a challenge on the Swiss. Grimsmo's using the same process he's used for 5-6 years but the endmills are dying out after 35-60 parts! Saunders and Grimsmo troubleshoot various factors that affect tool life and possible solutions.
THE MENTAL TRAP - IS THIS YOU?
When it comes to machining strategies, if you've ever found yourself saying, " But I want it to work like THIS," STOP RIGHT THERE! Saunders says, "Get the recipe working FIRST--even if you don't love it. THEN start tweaking it from there!"
REACH!
When it comes to 5-Axis milling ensuring that you're able to reach occluded features is key. Grimsmo and Saunders discuss relieved shank tools, tapered endmills, and shrink fit, set screw, and pull-stud extenders.
Grimsmo + KERN = NEW Pocket Clip Supports
Today, he's going to machine this part in 1 op but he's not quite sure which strategy to use for the curvy areas of the part. Saunders suggests either 3D Contour with shaft and holder detection OR Steep and Shallow.
SAUNDERS CALLS OUT ChipBLASTER
When reaching out for coolant filtration solutions, he got nothing but poor customer service and people reluctant to give straight answers. With that, he sets out to find other options.
Grimsmo stands by his filter bag housing from McMaster.
Click Here to See Part Number 5168K249
Adafruit Parallel
While watching an interview with the CEO of Adafruit, one particular line strikes a chord with Saunders. It brings a new sense of clarity in terms of defining what SMW does.
Can you really optimize machining and happiness at the same time? This week John & John dive in to optimizing machining while staying happy and true to yourself. They also talk about hand editing lathe code and threading tips on the lathe. Saunders fuses ABS plastic together with acetone like a mad scientist and Grimsmo finally gets his swiss running after some issues.
THIS WEEK'S TOPICS:
- Entrepreneurs Managing Business & Emotions
- Reliving KERN
- Shop Tours | Onsrud, Hendrick Motorsports, and Stewart-Haas Racing
- CAMplete | Workflows & Optimize Function
- Datron NEO & Wazer for ProvenCut Speeds & Feeds Testing
- A Message from Justin K. Courtney | Tulster
It's been 13 years and counting!
Grimsmo relives how his spur-of-the-moment trip to KERN resulted in something he never thought possible.
Rear View VS Windshield
Are we ever truly able to live in the present? Saunders discusses the past, present, and future as it relates to entrepreneurship. If you aren't familiar with the 1-Minute "Brazilian Fisherman" story, Read it here.
Managing Business = Managing Emotions
Saunders shares a thought and behavior pattern that gives him emotional freedom during stressful events or circumstances. Learning how to control and manage emotional responses is easier said than done.
Shop Tours - FANUC, ROMER ARMS EVERYWHERE, AND SURFACE PLATES LARGER THAN CARS?
Saunders visits Onsrud, Hendrick Motorsports, and Stewart-Haas Racing in Charlotte, North Carolina and shares his experience at each shop, the things that blew him away, and a story about how he ended up machining an aluminum decal squeegee tool.
CAMplete Training, Workflows, & Capabilities
Grimsmo returns from a day of training with a good understanding of how to integrate Fusion 360 and CAMplete into a viable workflow for Grimsmo Knives. At this point in time, SMW uses the software to simulate, verify, and check for possible collisions but there's a feature that sounds like a game changer: OPTIMIZE FUNCTION.
DATRON NEO & WAZER ARRIVE AT SMW
ProvenCut will be testing speeds and feeds on these machines and adding them to the ever-growing video database!
Click Image to Visit ProvenCut.com
CHIP RAG - WHERE ARE YOU?
Unfortunately for some, the newsletter is being sent directly to the spam folder. If you've signed up but haven't received the February 7th issue, check your spam folder. If you haven't already, click here to sign up!
Last but not least, a message from Jusin K. Courtney with TULSTER.
Visit Tulster.com
Follow him on IG
@tulster
@justinkcourtney
John & John go into some very deep discussion this week all about stress, happiness and finding continued motivation. How do you talk about past events and experience without sounding like you are whining? Finding the line and learning how to communicate in the early stages of growing a business. John Saunders visits YG1 and Onsrud endmill grinding factory! John Grimsmo goes all in on Kern training and it is blowing his mind!
Saunders and Grimsmo delve into entrepreneurial insecurity, how it impacts them, and ways to keep it in check.
Now that the crazy month of January has passed, Grimsmo and his team are getting back into the swing of production. The Mori is up and running but there was a minor problem that caused them to scrap four knife handles. While it's not a huge deal, sometimes we forget about easy ways to isolate risk.
Speaking of scrapping parts, the guys discuss ways to proof code and machine operations including the Haas dead man's switch, and safe mode.
Coolant Plans
Grimsmo and Saunders share plans and ideas for coolant to machine delivery. Since the majority of coolant mix is water, it makes the most sense to avoid having to transport it to each machine.
A Different Type of Sustainability - Simple Solutions That Last
If you're a business owner, it's time to be ruthlessly honest about decisions and plans. Are these things going to work long term? Are these solutions able to be scaled?
I've a KERN-FESSION to make
Grimsmo turns on the KERN for the first time and ends up with something he didn't expect...
Learning Curve
With more training for the KERN and CAMplete on the docket, there's still another issue that training can't solve: deciding what to machine first! Should it be a test part, a part needed for knives, or should he revisit a part that brings his story full circle?
Did you say DATRON?
Saunders announces some exiting news about a new partnership between Datron and ProvenCut!
They Must Have Heard Me!
Have you ever wished something existed only for it to suddenly appear? Saunders is amused and happy that Maritool came through with ER Hex Collets.
NO TOOTHPICKS ALLOWED!
A state-wide ban on toothpicks prompts Tom Lipton to create a machining challenge! So, uh, does this mean we're outlaws now?
Click Image For Tom Liptons IG Post
ChipRag Newsletter
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This week John & John talk all about "The best decision is the one that will increase the customer's trust". They raise a great discussion about making decisions while being in the public eye and trying to make sure everyone is happy. We also do a deep dive into the new Grimsmo HQ. They talk all about leveling machines, measuring tools and mastering precision. You can find the book we reference here. John Saunders also plays a slight prank on Grimsmo once he un boxes his new Kern!
Plugged Into The Pipeline
Having a brain trust is valuable to your business and personal growth. Whether it's social media, family, friends, a mentor, or a business/entrepreneurship group, the benefits are innumerable. Entrepreneurship bears a shocking resemblance to parenting, especially when it comes to receiving unsolicited advice.
Your Win = Crap Shoot?
Saunders shares memo that brings a new perspective to evaluating decisions. Although it's easy to think a good result is from your skill and intellect, you might be surprised to find that it's more like rolling the dice.
NYC CNC Chip Rag
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WHAT A BEAUT.
All the machines are in the new Grimsmo Knives shop and it looks incredible! With a loaner grocery box truck, the team will be able to finish moving the remaining items.
WATER, COOLANT, & AIR
Grimsmo and Saunders talk details about water, coolant, and ways to make supplying coolant/water to the machines more efficient.
BIG BADA BOOM AT SMW
An air line disconnects and whiplashes wildly against the adjacent wall, scaring the crap out of everyone. Saunders shares the story on WhatsApp and Rob Lockwood has an easy solution---almost too easy. Let's just say that the Air Fuses are on order....and maybe a few new pairs of pants.
John & John have a crazy busy week ahead. Saunders' dives into great detail about his first lathe sub spindle transfer. They both go into great detail about process and the fine tuning that goes into something like switching parts on a lathe. John Grimsmo goes over the plan for moving into the new shop next week! This includes getting the Kern that comes on Monday! Both Johns also touch on switching between the technician, manager and owner as the company grows. They both have great knowledge to share in regards to scaling your own personal growth alongside the company that you run! They reference a book called "Extreme Ownership" By Jocko Willink.