Custom Carbon & Graphite Machining

29 May

Welcome Alan Smith, Our New CAD/CAM Expert

Semco is always delighted to welcome new members to our graphite machining team. It is a special pleasure to introduce Alan Smith, our new process engineer with years of experience in computer-aided machining and mechanical design engineering. Alan comes to us with extensive CAD/CAM experience and training. Alan Smith and Family Alan is a family man with many interests. Before we get to the family side of Alan’s life (a big side), let’s discuss what Alan does in his free time. He enjoys a variety of outdoor activities such as riding ATV’s, kayaking, bicycling, hiking, fishing, and boating. In addition...

28 Apr

Machine Learning in CNC Machining

Artificial intelligence and machine learning have been hot topics in the past few years. Recently, you’ve probably heard all about ChatGPT, and maybe you’re on the waitlist to try Google’s Bard. You may not have heard how deep learning in machine learning is being used in CNC machining. As we are in all aspects of graphite machining, Semco is ahead of the curve with machine learning and graphite production. Since 2018 Semco has been experimenting with forms of AI and machine learning, especially in applications relating to CNC machining. AI Defined So what exactly is AI? In simple terms, AI...

21 Mar

Computer Aided Design, or CAD

Computer-aided design, more commonly known as CAD, is the use of computers in the design process across a wide range of industries. CAD software is primarily used to create highly accurate models, but CAD covers all steps in the design process, from creation and modification to analysis and design. In our industry, CAD software is notably used to create precise drawings and models of objects and structures. CAD was developed as a more accurate, affordable way for designers, engineers, and manufacturers to design, visualize, and test models while minimizing the chance of mistakes. As CAD allows for easy modification, documentation,...

14 Mar

Graphite Dust: How We Deal With the Dust Hazard

Dust: a finely powdered substance of various matters, often suspended in the air. When that suspended matter is floating around someone machining graphite electrodes, it’s graphite dust. Anyone that has machined graphite knows that the particles generated from the machining process are very fine and have a tendency to remain airborne, even when a dust collector is in use. Unlike common household dust, graphite dust has characteristics that must be taken into consideration. Dust Hazard? Dealing with graphite dust naturally brings up the question, is this stuff considered a hazard to the human body? Before answering this, we should clarify...

30 Jan

Impervious Graphite Grades in Process Equipment

Most graphite applications are designed with a particular graphite grade in mind. Impervious graphite grades, where the original material is altered to eliminate porosity, are especially in demand for some common graphite applications. Graphite process equipment, especially heat exchangers, are increasingly being used in chemical processing, as well as pharmaceutical and other process applications requiring high corrosion resistance. Graphite Applications in Heat Exchangers Any graphite grade has great thermal conductivity that makes it suitable for the construction of heat exchangers and other process equipment. These systems transfer heat between a substance and a fluid, many of which are corrosive. Not...