Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Last Call for METALFORM Mexico Speakers

Industry experts interested in speaking at the METALFORM Mexico Educational Conference on November 11-13, 2008, in Mexico City must submit an application by May 19. This year’s categories of entry include stamping technology and equipment, tooling, sheetmetal fabricating, automation and welding, quality, materials and more. Download the application or apply online. Contact Deanna Cunningham at 216-901-8800 with questions.

Technical Papers Now Available for Purchase

Those who missed this year’s METALFORM Conference in Birmingham can still get access to technical papers submitted by the speakers. This compilation contains more than 70 pages of valuable information for metalforming companies on topics such as automation technology, rust prevention, vision systems, designing and building dies for high-strength steels, integrated electronic systems, sensors in welding cells and servoing better using drive designs. The collection of papers may be purchased through PMA’s online store.

Business Conditions Report: April 2008

According to PMA’s April 2008 Business Conditions Report, metalforming companies expect business conditions to weaken during the next three months.  In addition, the number of companies with a portion of their workforce on short time or layoff spiked to its highest level since July 2003. More information is available in PMA’s press release or by viewing the full report.

Companies Applauded for Outstanding Industry Achievements

PMA is pleased to announce the winners of its 2008 Awards of Excellence in Metalforming. Award recipients were honored at a special ceremony held during Regional METALFORM Birmingham on April 1. Presented annually, the awards recognize innovators in the areas of design, safety, process control, training and education, productivity, product development and quality. See each award-winning achievement!

Hot-Rolled Steel Imports Plummet as Steel Prices Reach New Heights

According to preliminary data released by the Commerce Department, hot-rolled steel imports to the United States dropped 23 percent in March compared to February levels.  PMA President Bill Gaskin stated that this decline is of great concern to steel-using manufacturers already contending with the highest prices for steel seen in years.  Read the press release.