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EDITOR'S NOTEBOOK US manufacturing invests in high-wage countries: Despite the lure of cheap labor, high-wage countries account for 65% of US manufacturing investments abroad, according to a study by Deloitte Research in New York City. Europe and Canada lead the way in US manufacturing with $16.4 billion and $4.2 billion, respectively, with Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand setting the pace in the Pacific Rim. "The study indicates that for many manufacturers, the temptation of cheap labor is often outweighed by a combination of economic stability, well-developed infrastructures, lucrative market potential, and skilled workers," says Michael Fradette, Deloitte's global manufacturing director.
Toll-free Y2K info: The President's Council on Year 2000 Conversion has introduced 1-888-USA-4-Y2K, a toll-free information line. Information specialists, supported by researchers, staff the line from 9 am to 8 pm EST, Monday through Friday. Also, recorded messages give general Y2K information. CAD comes to high schoolers: When parents ask their kids what they're learning in school these days, they may be surprised. It's not just geometry and history anymore--but computer aided design (CAD). At least that's the aim of CAD manufacturer SolidWorks Corp, Concord, MA. The company will award about 200 licenses for its CAD product to high schools with instructional CAD programs. The High School Grant Program, with a commercial value of $1 million, was initiated to promote 3D design instruction at the high school level. "Teachers and students should not have to wrestle with out-of date, complex 2D CAD programs," says SolidWorks CEO, Jon Hirschtick. By implementing easy-to-use, affordable 3D solid-modeling solutions into high school classrooms, students will understand today's 3D design process, he says. For more information or to apply, visit http://www.solidworks.com/grants Travelling stamping seminars: AIDA-Dayton Technologies Corp, Dayton, OH, is offering a seminar program for metal stampers. These non-commercial sessions have covered high-speed stamping, high-speed blanking, and the use of gap-frame presses versus straight-side presses. "The sessions show companies how they can most effectively use the latest stamping technology," says Denny Boerger, product/market segment mgr. To arrange a seminar, contact your local AIDA representative or call 1-937-237-2382. [metlfax/incl/99mfx.htm] |
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Underwater welding: When
underwater structures and pipelines need repairs, welders need to get creative. They can
surround the repair zone with a chamber and displace the water with gas so the welding can
be done in a dry environment. The technique, hyperbaric arc welding, is limited by the
amount of water pressure the chamber can withstand. Pressure has been documented at 100
bar, but a research facility in London, England, is investigating the viability of
withstanding pressures of 250 bar. 