Wolverine Machine

Providing Products to North America via The U.S.A.

2012-01-20T13:49:00.006-05:00

Rumor has it that many products, once deemed more economical to produce in China, may be making their way back to American made. Rising costs to manufacture and ship from China will allow companies to save costs by building factories and employing workers right here in America. This does not mean that China is out of the game. But what it does mean is that with the American economy still on a rebound, this helps give it that little extra nudge.

What are your thoughts?

Wolverine Machine Honors its Veterans

2011-11-07T16:03:00.002-05:00

On this Veteran's Day, 11/11/11, Wolverine Machine would like to take the opportunity to thank its veterans.

Founder - Charles O'Neill - United States Army - serving in World War I
Vice-President - Bruce Walker - United States Army - serving in Vietnam
Machine Operator - Aaron Ruff - United States Marine Corps - serving in Liberation Kosovo

Thank you for your service to this country and thank you to all veterans, past and present for all you have done and still do to maintain freedom for the United States of America.

U of M Solar Car "Quantum"

2011-10-25T16:58:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to the 2011 University of Michigan's Solar Car team! With their solar car, "Quantum", they placed 3rd in the World in the Veolia World Solar Challenge in Australia. Wolverine Machine was glad to be a part of the creation for the 2nd time and a proud sponsor.

For more on the team and the race, click here: Quantum

September Newsletter 2011

2011-09-30T16:27:00.002-04:00

Check out our newest Newsletter for September 2011. Includes a note from our President, Ken Walker; features the Part of the Month from Birds Eye Media/DJIUSA; as well as some Industry Events and News.

Just go to our website: WolverineMachine and click on the Newsletters tab.

Years of Service

2011-09-01T13:26:00.000-04:00

Wolverine Machine prides itself on the fact that it has been in business for over 88 years. We are also proud to have customers who help us to paint a picture of commitment, loyalty, business partnerships as well as friendships. Several companies, who are continued, active customers here at Wolverine, have been so for the better part of 20 years. While this field makes strides to take an older skilled trade and keep it new, it proves what a strong foundation and dedication can do.

So, thank you to our customers, clients and friends for helping to keep Wolverine Machine moving ahead and staying strong. We also look forward to meeting new people and extend an invitation for you to see what Wolverine Machine is all about.

Go to: WolverineMachine and click on the 'Our Customers' tab to read what they have to say. And take a minute to sign up for our E-Newsletter.

Part of the Month

2011-07-26T15:53:00.002-04:00

Part of the Month
"Continental Interiors was faced with the difficult task of installing Nora Sheet Rubber flooring in very intricate patterns at the University of Michigan’s new C.S. Mott Children and Women’s Hospital in Ann Arbor. The best way to accomplish this was to have them water-jet cut. Wolverine Machine stepped up to this monumental task and excelled with flying colors. The layout of the patterns were made simple with easy to follow instructions and tight seams. And do to the time constraints on the project, Wolverine Machine was more than happy to bend over backwards to get the job complete ahead of schedule."

Ed Veo
Continental Interiors, Inc.

It's All About Skill

2011-06-10T09:53:00.004-04:00

"Alongside creative recruitment efforts, the key to developing more skilled workers in the U.S. is the use of uniform, widely-recognized and industry-driven credentials to demonstrate competency in the specific industry skills needed by employers."

There is a push right now to provide college students the access to gain those skills and certifications needed to be successful in the Manufacturing field. With backers such as NTMA, PMA, NAM and President Obama, the goal is to bring Manufacturing in the U.S. back to the forefront. By increasing the opportunities in education, the goal is for more people to become certified in the skills that will allow Manufacturing in the U.S. to move ahead with the future and the new technologies available for new products. No longer would skilled trades be a thing of the past but the goal of the future.

To read the rest of the article above, click on this link:
http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20110608006542/en/White-House-Worker-Training-Initiatives-Build-Efforts

Think Outside of the Box

2011-05-31T09:34:00.003-04:00

Intricate in-lay for a backyard patio, colorful pattern to brighten up a hospital floor, custom-designed backsplash for a kitchen or that one-of-a-kind part on a custom built chopper.

With the ability to cut stone, rubber, ceramic tile and steel, all of these projects are possible with the process of water jet cutting. Water jet cutting can offer up precision cuts with no heat damage or change to the intrinsic property. We can produce one part or thousands of parts with a smaller amount of waste and a faster time.

Whether you are a landscaper, contractor or build choppers, Wolverine Machine can assist you with your project. From design to finished product, this family owned business for 88 years can help you.
Send us your requests at: quotes@wolverinemachine.com

Click here to see the water jet in action.

Not just for Metal

2011-05-19T11:01:00.003-04:00

Did you know that Water jet cutting isn't just for metal, aluminum and stainless steel? Rubber, foam, plastics, composites, tile, marble, granite, safety and armored glass can easily be cut to exact specifications using the water jet cutting process. And because water jet cutting machines use water to mimic an actual erosion process as opposed to heat, like lasers or plasma cutters, materials maintain their original intrinsic properties and exhibit no "heat-affected" zones.

Wolverine Machine has 2 of the largest water jet cutting tables in the Midwest. From flooring to countertops to sign making, we can assist you in your next project. For questions or for more information contact us at:info@wolverinemachine.com. Or to request a quote: quotes@wolverinemachine.com

Clean and Green

2011-05-17T12:19:00.002-04:00

Clean and Green — Wolverine Machine not only filters and recycles 100% of the water used in our Waterjet cutting process, but also 100% of the garnet abrasive. The process does not involve any chemicals, gases, or noxious liquids which creates a very clean process, preferable to other methods in terms of environmental impact.

Commitment to Quality

2011-05-09T15:25:00.000-04:00

To support our commitment to exceptional customer service, we are ISO/TS 16949:2009 certified and use advanced, high tech processes and equipment to shorten production cycles, reduce waste and lower costs.

WOLVERINE'S COMMITMENT TO QUALITY MEANS...

Detailed consideration to lots as small as 10 pieces or as large as 1,000,000, or more.
Quality control accountability from all personnel at every stage of the process.
An exceptionally knowledgeable staff.
Third generation family management spanning more than 75 years of production excellence.
Wolverine Promises to deliver quality products, on time at competitive prices.

WOLVERINE'S COMMITMENT TO QUALITY INCLUDES...

Twenty-three 6-spindle automatic bar machines capable of fabricating superior products from 1/8" to 4" diameter.
Precision in-house operations for drilling, tapping, automatic tapping, bending, broaching, countersinking, milling, reaming, threading, and knurling.
Reliable outside sources for plating, heat treating, centerless grinding, brazing, nylocking, and specialized packaging.
Tools and procedures for extraordinary quality control, especially Wolverine's "Statistical Process Control" which insures exact conformance to our customers' specifications.
Timely PPAP's done in house when required.

It's Our 88th Anniversary!!!!

2011-05-02T14:51:00.038-04:00

In May of 1923, Charles J. O’Neill incorporated Wolverine Machine Products in Holly, Mich. Moving equipment into a building with less than 8,000 square feet, the company produced fasteners and other screw machine products. With early customers including Chevrolet/General Motors, to producing products for World War II, surviving the Great Depression and a fire in 1953, Wolverine Machine Products stands strong. Now into it’s 88th year and 4th generation, Wolverine Machine Products continues the tradition of excellent quality and exceptional customer service.

Waterjet Cutting RFQ Raffle

2011-02-17T11:59:00.000-05:00

Waterjet Cutting RFQ Raffle

Waterjet cutting is exciting to us at Wolverine Machine, and we want to make it exciting for you.
From today until March 31st, Wolverine Machine will be holding a weekly drawing for all customers who send in RFQ’s (Request for Quotes) for Wolverine Machine’s Waterjet cutting service. On Friday, February 25th and every Friday in March, a lucky winner will be drawn from that week’s entries to receive a $25 gift certificate to their favorite local area businesses, i.e. restaurant, fuel station or charity**.

Add us to your waterjet outsourcing contacts to make it easy to enter!

Terms and Conditions:
**Material must be at least ¾” in thickness and/or require heat free cutting in order to be entered into the promotional drawing. Each customer is limited to receiving one entry per business day. The lucky winning customer will be notified via email on each Friday and a suggestion for their gift certificate will be requested. Should a gift certificate from the customers suggested business not be available a secondary choice will be considered. Every Monday, the prior week’s entries will be discarded. Should you be interested in participating in this promotion, please send your part print and quantities desired for Waterjet cutting to Quotes. For additional questions on this promotion, feel free to contact Rachel.

Mazak – Nexus 250-ll with 3" Bar Capacity

2011-02-07T15:29:00.001-05:00

Equipped with enhanced stability, superior ease of operation and increased safety measures, the Mazak – Nexus 250-ll Lathe with 3” Bar Capacity is an essential device within Wolverine Machine’s CNC turning sector. Making Mazak’s lathe unique from others is its 3” thru spindle capacity and the ability to chuck large parts. This machine has a maximum machining diameter of 13.78”, a maximum stock length of 18.733” and a maximum chuck size of 10”. This spectacular machine is also capable of a feed rate of 108 ft/min with a maximum spindle speed of 4000 rpm with a 35 HP motor.

Exceptional accuracy is achieved through superior design and modern features which include rigid construction and an exceptional response system. The spindle motor is comprised of an advanced design that provides a maximum torque of 90N·m, along with unparalleled turning speed performance. The turret drum has highly efficient machining capabilities and an index time of 0.2 sec/1 step. By turning a single bolt the quick change tool holders can easily be unloaded and loaded. The conversational controls reduce the set up time and lower production costs making the Mazak ideal for small prototype quantities. The Mazak also has the ability to convert conversational CNC programs into traditional G-Code format that may easily be transferred to other Wolverine Machine CNC lathes. The ability to convert and transfer programs results in short set-up times further adding to economical costs for high and low volume jobs.

Due to the innovative linear guide, the Mazak can achieve higher accuracy than other lathes equipped with conventional hardened and ground sideways guides. The linear guide also produces a lower amount of friction and a smaller amount of heat is produced. Should you be interested in receiving a quote for this high-tech process, please contact us.

Before	After

Live Tooling: Keeping Jobs in the U.S.

2011-01-25T16:22:00.008-05:00

In the current struggling economy, manufacturing companies are looking for a way to increase productivity, decrease production cuts and still maintain top quality products. Some manufacturing companies choose to outsource some of their work to foreign countries to save money, though this makes it very difficult to maintain a high level of quality in their products and only adds to the damaged American economy.

There is another option that these manufacturing companies should consider which will assist in keeping jobs within the U.S, increase productivity and decrease production time. This option is to obtain innovative machinery which is equipped with live tooling capabilities. Wolverine Machine did just that when it purchased its Miyano BNE 51S with live tooling and sub-spindle. This combination of live tooling and a sub-spindle makes the BNE 51S capable of performing milling, drilling and machining on both sides of a part in one operation. Live tooling and a sub-spindle can eliminate secondary operations, manual part flipping, and the need to use more pieces of machinery to complete the part. In addition, live tooling allows us to manufacture a part with increased accuracy and repeatability due to the elimination of hand loading secondary operations.

Wardjet Z-813 — 8'x13' Triple-Headed Water Jet

2011-01-20T08:32:00.002-05:00

This incredible machine can cut almost any material on planet Earth up to 12” thick, with the exception of Diamonds, Carbide and Tempered Glass. Three heads on our Z-813 allows us to cut up to three 4' x 8' sheets simultaneously – allowing our customers to receive 3 times the product in the time it takes most companies to produce one. The Z-813 offers exceptional accuracy of +/- .005”, repeatability of +/- .001” and exhibits no “heat-affected zones”. The water jet cutting process utilizes a combination of water and abrasive forced through a cutting nozzle at up to 2200 mph and 60,000 psi and cuts at speeds of 0.01ipm to 250ipm.

See a side by side comparison of water jet cutting and laser cutting

Watch a short video of the water jet cutting machine in action

History of Water Jet Cutting

Hydraulic coal mining in New Zealand and the Soviet Union is believed to be the beginning of water jet cutting. Water was gathered from brooks and streams and directed to wash over a rock face to carry away the free rock and coal. Through 1853-1886, in the Gold Country of California, water was pressurized and used to move soft gold rock from the mining locations. This allowed miners to stand a distance away while the soft gold rock was being washed, which created a safer work environment for the miners because there was less of a chance of collapsing walls of blasted rock.

In the early 1900’s, Russia and Prussia had gained the knowledge of using pressurized water; they used this knowledge to wash away blasted coal. Approximately 30 years later, Russia evolved this idea and used a water cannon in the first recorded attempt to cut rock with water. Norman Franz, a forestry engineer from Michigan, experimented using water to cut lumber in the early 1950’s and installed the first industrial water jet machine. In the 1970’s there was a breakthrough in water jet technology when Mohamed Hashish created an abrasive which when added to pressurized water created the water jet technique.

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Water jet cutting is an environmentally friendly way to create your parts but to make this machine even more “Green” we have installed a state-of-the-art water recycling system which filters and reuses all water that is used in the cutting process. Not only is this great for the environment, but also helps you by cutting the cost of production. Should you be interested in receiving a quote for this high-tech process, please contact us.

The Stong will Survive

2011-01-17T11:12:00.000-05:00

For a free edge finish sample from our 13'x30' Waterjet, please click here.

Meet the Walkers...

2011-01-11T08:44:00.002-05:00

Kenneth Walker – President
Ken graduated from Albion College with a Bachelors Degree in Business Administrations. While in school, Ken cam home during the summers and worked on the shop floor of Wolverine Machine. After Albion, Ken was employed at AC Spark Plug as a foreman. Ken eventually left AC Spark Plug and continued gaining work experience and knowledge of the automotive industry. He then decided to continue his education at the University of Illinois, earning his Master’s Degree in Labor Relations. In 1972, Ken began working full-time at Wolverine Machine quoting prospective jobs. His responsibilities grew over the years and Ken was delegated the tasks of scheduling production, inventory control, writing quality procedures and manuals, purchasing raw materials and much more. Seven years later, in 1979, Ken became President of Wolverine Machine when he and his brother, Bruce Walker, purchased Wolverine Machine Products.

Bruce Walker – Vice President
Bruce graduated from Ferris State University in 1966 with a degree in Applied Science. One year later, Bruce was drafted into the Army and was sent overseas to Vietnam to serve and protect our country. Following his two years of Military service Bruce rejoined his family and began working on the shop floor of Wolverine Machine as a Machine Operator- setting up automatic bar machines, manual mills and lathes. His responsibilities grew over the years and Bruce began purchasing, programming and setting up multi-axis CNC lathes and expanding Wolverine Machine’s capabilities. Bruce stocked Wolverine Machine with a variety of CNC machines in order to ensure he would be able to fulfill customer needs. Bruce then moved to the front office and began work as an estimator - determining part processes. Shortly after, Bruce and Ken purchased Wolverine Machine together from their father, Charles Walker, and have been running the company concurrently for over 30 years.

Blaine Walker – Special Projects Manager
Blaine Walker, son of Bruce Walker, attended Milwaukee School of Engineering for two years and transferred to Walla Walla University to complete his Bachelors in Civil Engineering in 1998. Between his junior and senior year of college, Blaine received an internship at Lopez Engineering in Davisburg, Michigan. After the completion of his education, Blaine moved back to Michigan and accepted a permanent position at Lopez Engineering, where he continued to work for 9 years. In 2007, Blaine joined his father and uncle to help run the family business. Blaine began with upgrading the computer systems at Wolverine Machine and helping with human resources by expanding Wolverine’s hiring resources, reviewing resumes and conducting interviews. Blaine now handles all IT and computer hardware and software related issues at Wolverine Machine. Blaine also is responsible for all waterjet quotes as well as assisting with Wolverine’s sales and marketing efforts. Blaine’s waterjet cutting knowledge is extensive – contact him today for your waterjet cutting needs.

Our 13 Acme-Gridley Multi-Spindle Bar Machines

2011-01-07T09:27:00.000-05:00

The Acme-Gridley multi-spindle bar machine was designed by George Gridley and the Windsor Manufacturing Company which was based in Vermont. Windsor Manufacturing Company was acquired by National Acme in 1915 and the Acme-Gridley brand of automatic multi-spindle bar machines was born.

The machine's operation begins by loading six bars of raw material stock, one in each spindle. The bar is fed to a stock stop, which is adjusted to a predetermined length. The machine cycle continues as the cross slide tools and the end slide tools simultaneously perform their assigned machine functions on all six bars. This cuts the amount of time to produce a part to approximately one sixth of the time that it would take on a single-spindle machine. The cycle time is determined by the time period taken for the longest operation. Because of the automatic operation of the bar feed and automated tooling movements the skilled operator is able to control multiple machines and produce parts efficiently.

Our machines produce parts up to 4" in diameter and up to 10" in length. Wolverine Machine's Acme-Gridley's are configured to process 16 foot long bars which allows a more cost effective use of material compared to machines processing standard 12 foot long bars. There are also a wide variety of attachments for the Acme-Gridley multi-spindle bar machine, which allows Accelerated Reaming, OD and ID Threading, High Speed Drilling, Flat Milling, Broaching, Internal Recessing, Burnishing, and Back Finishing.

It is often found that the multi-spindle bar machines are very cost effective for medium to high volume production parts due to the possibility of short cycle times. This is a product of the simultaneous and progressive machining of material on all of the spindles. Many times as a result of the accuracy, short cycle times, and the ability to perform concurrent functions, multi-spindle bar machines are able to eliminate secondary functions dramatically lowering costs. To see a short video of our facility click here.

Wolverine Machine’s Bar Machines

2 – 9/16” RA-6 Acme-Gridley Bar Machine
4 – 1-1/4” RA-6 Acme-Gridley Bar Machine
4 – 2-5/8” RA-6 Acme-Gridley Bar Machine
3 – 4” RA-6 Acme-Gridley Bar Machine

Our 13' X 30' Four Headed - Ward Jet RX-3013

2010-12-16T09:26:00.001-05:00

This month's featured machine of the month is Wolverine Machine's Wardjet RX-3013 water jet cutting table with four independent Z carriages. The four heads on our RX-3013 allow us to cut up to four 3' x 30' sheets simultaneously – allowing our customers to receive 4 times the product in the time it takes most companies to produce one. With a working envelope of 156"x 360"x10" the RX-3013 is one of the largest waterjet cutting tables in the Midwest and one of two waterjet cutting tables housed in our facility. This high precision unit has been designed to meet even the largest requirements while holding very tight tolerances. The RX-3013 offers exceptional accuracy of +/- .003", repeatability of +/- .001" and exhibits no "heat-affected zones".

The water jet cutting process utilizes a combination of water and abrasive forced through a cutting nozzle at up to 2200 mph and 60,000 psi. This powerful machine has the capability of cutting through any material, with the exception of tempered glass, diamonds and carbide, up to 12" thick. To see a side-by-side comparison of laser vs. waterjet cutting click here.

Water jet cutting is an environmentally friendly way to create your parts but to make this machine even more "Green" we have installed a state-of-the-art water recycling system which filters and reuses all water that is used in the cutting process. Not only is this great for the environment, but also helps you by cutting the cost of production. Should you be interested in receiving a quote for this high-tech process, please contact us.

2010-12-09T16:10:00.001-05:00








THEN	NOW

Learn More About Wolverine Machine’s History

Saelio Mach3A

2010-09-13T10:06:00.005-04:00

Wolverine Machine operates four Saelio Mach3A horizontal mills within its 32,000 square foot facility. This horizontal machining center was created by combining design innovations from across the globe including Germany, South Korea, Japan and the United States. The Saeilo Mach3A has out-performed other vertical machining centers in productivity, cost efficiency and accuracy.

The Mach3A is fast and efficient – the spindle motor can accelerate quickly, from 0 to 6000 rpm in only 2.5 seconds. The rapid feed rate on the X, Y and Z axis is 945 ipm (24m/min) with a positioning accuracy of 0.0002”. These two features help it complete its work cycle 20%-40% faster than other horizontal machining centers. Work pieces on the Mach3A can be mounted to dual four sided traveling columns also known as tombstones. The dual tombstones allow the machine operator to unload, inspect and reload one tombstone while the other tombstone remains inside the Saeilo Mach3A holding the work pieces being machined. Not only are the tombstones mounted on a pallet changer allowing one to be reloaded while the other is being machined, but all four sides of the tombstone can be utilized without the tombstone ever leaving the inside of the machine.

The Mach3a is solid machine-built on a cast iron base with internal ribs strategically placed to enable close tolerance machining. The cast iron base reduces vibrations, thermal displacement and deflection – all things that add quality to the parts we produce and give our parts better surface finish and superior accuracy. In addition, it has a large, 500 lb work piece capacity and 10hp spindle motor, both exceptional features for a horizontal mill of such a compact size.

The Saeilo Mach3A’s short cycle times, quick set up time, optimal ergonomics and close tolerance capability allows Wolverine Machine to give our customers a high quality part with a lower cost. Contact Wolverine Machine today to learn more about the capabilities of this machine.

Wolverine Machine Products Helps to Build University of Michigan's Solar Car

2010-07-29T10:19:00.003-04:00

Holly, MI --Wolverine Machine Products in Holly Michigan donated their time and money to help the University of Michigan develop a solar car. This solar car began a race on June 20th and came to a finish on June 26th where the University of Michigan's crossed the finish line in 1st place. The solar car named Infinium, crossed the finish line 2 hours 12 minutes and 9 seconds ahead of the second place team Minnesota.

Over the course of 6 days, Infinium traveled 1,100 miles averaging 40 mph, which is amazing considering the number of stop lights on this route. The race crew only had 15 minutes on the side of the the road making a minor electrical repair. To bring back a championship the team had to run a flawless race.

Quality Leadership Top 100

2010-06-08T09:26:00.002-04:00

Wolverine Machine: Quality Magazine's Top 100 for the 2nd Consecutive Year

Holly, MI, May 21, 2010 -- Wolverine Machine has landed on the Quality Magazine: Quality Leadership Top 100 list for the second consecutive year. Over 800 manufacturers participate in this list.

Manufacturers are surveyed on criteria such as scrap and rework as a percentage of sales, warranty costs as a percentage of sales, rejected parts per million shipped and contribution of quality to profitability and shareholder value.

Other factors that determine the results are based on the number of quality programs in place; registration to various standards; percentage of employees dedicated to quality procedures; average number of hours that employees receive quality training on a monthly basis; and the role quality professionals play in the acquisition of test, measurement and inspection tools, software and services.

The Importance of Setting Target Prices for Your Suppliers

2010-04-27T10:55:00.001-04:00

Target costing has been used in Japan since the early 60s, but didn’t start gaining momentum in the US until the 90s. Around 90% of Japanese firms use this cost-saving strategy while only 50% of US firms are taking advantage of its benefits. Given that external purchases average approximately 60% of cost of sales for most manufacturers, it would seem that target costing should be given a great deal of attention by management.

Target costing is the process of determining a target price for your suppliers in order to receive the most competitive quotes. Giving suppliers a target price ensures understanding of the processes used and saves valuable time and money for both parties. In using target costing, supplier relationships are greatly improved by providing an avenue for earlier supplier involvement, clarifying true cost goals, and supporting supplier alliances.

By involving suppliers earlier in the process, all possible ideas for cost reduction can be considered, rather than later in the process when extensive resources have already been invested. This early involvement of suppliers is critical, given the rule of thumb that approximately 70% of the product’s cost is determined by decisions made during the design process.

When using target costing, the entire supply chain is seen as an integrated whole. Each element refines its operations to reduce its own costs, and therefore, reduces the total overall cost of the final product. In addition, target costing assists in internal improvements by creating a benchmark for cost performance, supporting team involvement, and creating greater cost accountability internally and with suppliers.

At Wolverine Machine, we strongly encourage our customers to provide target prices in order for us to be as beneficial as possible. By doing so, we are able to provide the most competitive quote while also assisting in cost-reduction strategies. Please visit our website to learn more about our customer-focused strategies.

7 Tips for Excellent Customer Service

2010-03-31T08:39:00.003-04:00

A good salesperson can sell to anyone once, but it will be your approach to customer service that will keep them coming back. Improving customer service and working on customer engagement are business’ best defense against the increased competition that a recession causes. Our newsletter, The Cutting Edge is focused on customer service this month. Here is a sneak peek at the 7 tips for excellent customer service.

1. Most importantly, the quality of customer service cannot exceed the quality of those who provide it. Your machines or processes don’t give good customer service, your employees do. Hiring and retaining quality employees is the most essential key to making your customers happy. Realize that the way your people are treated dictates the way your customers will be treated.

2. Know your customers. Get to know their expectations so that you can assist them in meeting their needs. Understand what is important to them and continually ask if what you are doing is what your customer would appreciate.

3. Anticipate problems before they happen. In case something goes wrong, have a plan of action ready. Let your customers know what you plan to do if unforeseen circumstances arise so that they know they’re your top priority.

4. Be flexible. Show your customers that you are willing to put forth the extra effort to ensure they are satisfied. Go the extra mile whenever possible and you will certainly reap the benefits. Recently, one of our customers was given a strict deadline to finish a project that seemed impossible. Our newsletter explains how we were able to help.

5. Make sure that your customers know who you are. It is your job to educate your customers on how you can help them and what services or products are offered. Convey your strengths and how they set you apart from the competition.

6. Don’t let them get away. Communication is key to maintaining a lasting relationship so let your customers know that you haven’t forgotten about them. Show them how valuable they are by keeping in touch.

7. Make your customers a part of your service improvement. Actively seek feedback so that you can better understand what improvements your customers would like to see. Click here for a link to Wolverine Machine's customer satisfaction survey.

The Cutting Edge is available on our website if you would like to learn more about customer service. This month's issue features expert advice on how to choose the right supplier, implementing a customer service philosophy, and a quiz to find out if you're a customer service master!

New Miyano LZ-01R Brochure

2010-03-23T11:25:00.002-04:00

After the overwhelming response from the release of our water jet brochure, we have decided to create another brochure focused solely on the Miyano LZ-01R automated chucking lathe.

Featuring self loading/unloading capabilities, which eliminates hand loading, the LZ-01R can process parts quickly. In addition, since the parts are robotically loaded, the accuracy and repeatability of the machine is far superior to any hand loaded lathe. Here at Wolverine Machine we use only the best machining technologies and equipment, including the Miyano LZ-01R, to provide you parts that are accurately and efficiently produced to save your organization time and money. To learn more about what the LZ-01R can do for you, please click the link below.

Miyano LZ-01R Capabilities

How Water Jet Cutting Saves You Money

2010-03-18T08:35:00.002-04:00

Wolverine Machine houses two of the largest water jet cutting tables in the Midwest, capable of handling complex and intricate parts with tolerances of +/- .003” for virtually any material. These machines have allowed us to greatly expand our capabilities and services offered. The breadth and thickness of materials that can be cut using the water jet cutting process give it a distinct advantage over processes such as laser cutting and traditional machining.

Companies from all industries are turning to water jet cutting for fine detail, clean edges, and less waste. When using water jet cutting, there is no distortion, fraying, cracking, splintering, or slag, and since no heat is involved, the material will not have any “heat affected zones” that can become very problematic. We also use part nesting before the cutting process which optimizes material, reduces scrap, and saves you money. On top of that, Wolverine Machine recycles 100% of the water and 100% of the abrasive used, which brings waste to virtually nonexistent.

The applications for water jet cutting are innumerable, as well as the materials that can be used. Therefore, we have created a brochure solely focused on the benefits and abilities of our water jet cutting machines. It is loaded with information on how the process works and how it can save you a lot of time and money. If you would like to learn more about our water jet cutting machines, click on the link below to view our brand new brochure.

Water Jet Cutting Capabilities

The Cutting Edge Debut

2010-03-05T10:55:00.002-05:00

Wolverine Machine Products has launched a new e-newsletter, The Cutting Edge! The publication addresses issues such as safety, quality, employee relations, and many other factors needed for organizational success. Subscribers will also get current industry news, new product announcements, company-specific updates, and expert advice on best practices.

The first issue, which released on March 4th, covers a variety of topics with emphasis on quality in manufacturing. There is information regarding cost versus price when outsourcing, 14 points for total quality management, and a section highlighting Wolverine Machine’s addition of a new Zeiss CMM. There is also an exercise for subscribers to get started on “thinking outside the box” when it comes to quality management.

The Cutting Edge will be delivered free of charge to those who sign up from Wolverine Machine’s website. To view the debut issue, click here.

Wolverine Machine Introduces New Quality Technology

2010-02-16T09:52:00.003-05:00

It has long been Wolverine Machine’s strategy to focus on high-quality, value-added processes in order to remain successful. For more than 7 years, Wolverine Machine has used Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMS) in addition to many other quality assurance measures. CMMs are highly accurate machines that inspect parts with tolerances of 9 microns (which is roughly 1/10th the diameter of the average human hair) and smaller.

Wolverine Machine is proud to announce the addition of a new CMM, the Zeiss Contura G2 RDS, into its 32,000 square foot facility located in Holly, MI. This new Zeiss CMM will add to the company’s multitude of current quality assurance machines, expanding precision measurement capabilities and quality control/reliability. “The new high-tech features of the Contura G2 bring us the ability to capture substantial quantities of accurate measurement data in a shorter time while increasing our production, reliability, and quality,” says Steve Pyrc, Quality Manager at Wolverine Machine.

The completely redesigned bridge-type CMM features a next generation scanning platform, perfectly suited to the measurement of complex features and parts. Contura G2 RDS is capable of reaching 20,376 positions in 2.5 degree increments using styli as small as .3mm in diameter. Wolverine Machine purchased many additional fixtures and accessories for the CMM including the ViScan optical probe, which now makes it possible to perform touch and optical measurements on one machine. The ViScan optical probe is an ideal tool for non-contact measurement and analysis of more difficult to check small parts and soft work pieces. “This is the most successful and sought after machine Carl Zeiss IMT has ever developed,” says Josef Schernthaner, Vice President of Operations at Zeiss. This new machine will certainly add to the satisfaction that Wolverine Machine’s customers have come to know and count on. If you would like more information on Wolverine Machine's quality assurance technology or to see how we can help with your next project, please visit us at www.wolverinemachine.com.

Price vs. Cost When Outsourcing

2010-02-08T12:40:00.002-05:00

When many companies face a decision of whether or not to outsource certain productions, one of the biggest factors is price. Why pay a local company $5 for a part when the same part can be made in China for $2? Especially now through the economic downturn, more companies than ever are trying to save every penny possible to make it through to the other side. However, the realization is that the costs incurred in most outsourcing ventures overseas end up being much more than the company ever expected.

Take for example Boeing, who decided to outsource the majority of components for its latest and greatest project, the 787 Dreamliner. The lighter and more fuel-efficient Dreamliner is Boeing’s first major new airplane in over a decade. The decision was made to rely on hundreds of foreign suppliers for the majority of the parts, which proved disastrous to production. Originally scheduled to start delivery in May 2008, Boeing now expects delivery in December 2010, over two years late. Not only that, but the project has ended up costing Boeing over $2.5 billion more than planned because of the inconsistencies of the suppliers.

Boeing’s misfortunes highlight a very real issue that companies must face when it comes to the decision of whether or not to rely on foreign suppliers. While it can be a very profitable venture, the hidden costs are often not seen until it is too late. Shipping, training, logistics, legal counsel, project management, duties and taxes, and the cost of intellectual property and quality are just a few of the total cost factors that need to be examined very closely before a decision is made.

Local suppliers offer a higher-quality advantage than most foreign manufacturers due to more experience and a superior standard for quality. At Wolverine Machine, we uphold our commitment to quality during every step of the process, guaranteeing absolute customer approval. Our customers do not need to worry about fluctuating production, late deliveries, inconsistent products, or increasing costs because we have been successful in ensuring satisfaction for over 86 years. If you would like to learn more about Wolverine Machine and how we can help with your next project, please visit www.wolverinemachine.com.

University of Michigan Solar Car at NAIAS

2010-01-15T09:20:00.000-05:00

The University of Michigan’s Solar Car Team is gearing up for this summer’s American Solar Challenge, a 7-day solar car race from Tulsa to Chicago to be held in late June this year. The U of M team has high hopes for this race as they are 5 time champions. U of M’s 2009 solar car, Infinium, placed 3rd out of 38 teams from around the world in the World Solar Challenge. The World Solar Challenge was held in Australia in October of 2009.

Wolverine Machine is proud to say that we are silver sponsors of the U of M Solar Car Team, having fabricated crucial components for Infinium. Our superior water jet cutting capabilities allowed the team to create intricate parts, which were used to make their car more efficient. The waterjet cutting process was ideal for the parts that the U of M team required. All parts were cut from aluminum sheet stock to net shape or near net shape. Some parts required additional CNC milling work to be done. Because of Wolverine Machine’s extensive array of equipment, both the waterjet cutting and CNC milling could all be done under one roof. This allowed us to expedite the parts that the team needed and handle some last minute design changes. The high precision of the waterjet cutting machines at Wolverine Machine allowed us to cut the parts to the required tolerances with only minor CNC milling work required.

The U of M Solar Car Team will be displaying Infinium at the 2010 North American International Auto Show, which is open to the public from January 16-24. We would like to encourage all of you to check it out, and see how Wolverine Machine’s parts were used to fabricate this top-quality solar car. While there, be sure to wish the team best of luck in their upcoming race, in which we are confident they will once again win!

Growth of Alternative Energy Technologies in Michigan

2010-01-08T15:27:00.000-05:00

By: Amanda McDonough

Manufacturing encompasses the essence of Michigan. It is in our state’s DNA. While the past speaks for itself, our future will solidify our superior position in the industry.

Although manufacturing has recently gone through a tumultuous period in Michigan, industry leaders have rolled up their sleeves and diversified into promising industries which will revive Michigan’s economy. Here at Wolverine Machine Products we are excited to be part of this group.

The last quarter has seen steady growth of manufacturing jobs largely due to the ever-growing presence of alternative energy technology companies in Michigan. From suppliers to contractors, many innovative companies are diversifying from auto parts to components of solar energy and wind turbines. We have taken advantage of this opportunity to aid Michigan in these rapidly growing industries, and partnered with a well-known company that produces solar-powered Stirling engines.

Our incredibly knowledgeable staff at Wolverine Machine has worked tirelessly to create critical components of the Stirling engine, which last at least 25 years. This advanced solar-powered engine is capable of converting 24% of the sunlight hitting the dish into electricity – a better conversion rate than most PV solar panels have.

By expanding into the alternative energy technology market, we have not only lent a hand to Michigan’s economy, but also positioned ourselves as a leading supplier.

If you would like to learn more about Wolverine Machine’s unique precision machining capabilities, or to request a quote, please visit our website at www.wolverinemachine.com.