In November 2023, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, U.S. Department of Commerce, published the annual report on the U.S. Manufacturing Economy 2023. The report considers how the U.S. industry compares to other countries, the trends in the domestic industry and industry trends as compared to trends in other countries.

The report offered, referenced different areas where the U.S. could become more competitive. Currently, the U.S. is the fourth largest manufacturing value and out of all countries, the U.S. ranks 14^th. Not surprisingly, China outranks the U.S. in all the six major subsectors, according to the report.

Growth in the industry slowed from 1996-2021 values and labor productivity has also decreased with growth has either slow or plateauing. Economic disruptions worsened during the pandemic have not yet returned to prior levels but are showing signs of improvement. Supply chain issues in one form or another and labor issues also continue to create cause for concern throughout the industry.

Small Consistent Improvements

One thing that continues to prove helpful in the industry is the application of small improvements made continually. In many ways, manufacturers continue to look outside the box to make positive changes. This includes teaming with organizations outside of industry to introduce the concept of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) to younger generations.

As early as grade school, children make the decision if they like math and science and if they are good at these subjects. After this time, it can be difficult to change minds, which will leave a deficit in the number of people who go on to study math and science in high school, technical/vo-tech and college/university and will eventually affect who will be qualified for manufacturing jobs. The industry is also looking to put the existing skills of veterans to work in the industry.

Deburring Process Improvements

Likewise, small improvements can go a long way on the manufacturing floor. The process of edge finishing and deburring, removing the small, rough areas on gears, sprockets, camshafts and other parts, makes a tremendous difference in how well machinery performs and the safety of employees. Small but mighty, deburring and edge finishing are tried-and-true manufacturing processes that eliminate troublesome burrs.

Today there are processes available for deburring and edge finishing that can provide a safe and consistent outcome. These methods are used in a range of diverse industries, from the manufacture of automobiles and planes to toys and computer parts. It’s a method that can create a tangible difference in reducing issues in product parts, refining parts assembly and improving the appearance and performance of a product.

Consistent use of deburring can also keep a child from a nasty cut, an engine running smoothly and a product line flowing smoothly throughout a shift. Best of all, deburring can be a fraction of the overall cost of the individual part. Manufacturers who invest in deburring can save money overall by avoiding the expensive retooling process in the future.