Hot Off the Press

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Computer-Based Welding Training

The American Welding Society (AWS), through a partnership with Trinity Industries and Impart Knowledge Systems, has transferred its welding-inspection-technology seminar to a multimedia tutorial, WeldAcademy Online. Offered in a 10-module format, the tutorial covers safe practices, welding and cutting processes, welding symbols, qualification, metallurgy and inspection techniques. The module format gives students and administrators flexibility in designing coursework to match learning needs. Of interest to administrators, included tools allow them to track student progress throughout the course. In addition, the tutorial has technology that allows online study times and quiz scores to be monitored. WeldAcademy Online is available at a per module price of $60 for AWS members and $80 for nonmembers. To order, call 888/488-5669.

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Ford Taps Rockwell Automation
for Press-Automation Upgrade

Ford Motor Co. has selected Rockwell Automation to upgrade automation for two stamping-press lines at the Ford plant in Walton Hills, OH. The upgrade, to be completed next September, will improve productivity through more rapid product rollouts, reduced downtime and streamlined production schedules, according to Ford officials. Rockwell, as prime contractor, will oversee stamping-press control-system integration; refurbishment of robot-control systems; and integration of new robots into the press lines at the 2.2-million-sq.-ft. plant.

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Kewill ERP Under New Ownership

Kewill ERP, Minneapolis, MN, developer of JobBoss manufacturing-management software, has been purchased by Exact Software, of the Netherlands. The firm's legal name is now Exact Software ERP-NA, Inc. The online address hasn't changed--www.jobboss.com.

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