It’s always frustrating to run across an article in the mainstream media that breezily references the U.S. metalcasting industry, or manufacturing in general, as an endangered species, so a recent Popular Mechanics article that takes an opposite stance is worth mentioning.

Caterpillar and Case IH both are featured in the article, which touts five American manufacturing facilities that are experiencing success despite foreign competition. That these two companies were included echoes the strong casting forecasts for farm equipment and mining machinery industries.

The gist of the article is that it’s not time to write the epitaph for American manufacturing just yet. U.S. businesses still hold advantages in expertise, innovation, flexibility and speed.

When the magazine staff visits end-user trade shows, it’s not uncommon to hear the comment, “I didn’t think there were any U.S. metalcasters left.” But this industry, like the rest of U.S. manufacturing is still alive and kicking.

Whenever one of us here in the ECS office comes across an interesting metalcasting-related item, we’ll pass along the info to each other—whether it’s a url link, a clipped magazine story or a quick recap of what was seen on television. We know you do it, too, because many times we’ll receive emails from you, our readers, with similar commentaries. Sometimes these exchanges spark a discussion. Sometimes they lead to an idea for a feature article or news item. Sometimes they receive a short “huh,” and that’s it. But these communications have become an important way to stay keyed into the metalcasting industry.

Our new Metalcasting Design Blog is an extension of that everyday, watercooler exchange. Here you’ll find thoughts on industry trends, highlights of metal castings found in the every-day world, analysis of news items, reactions to facility tours, industry events and conferences, and our general musings.

We welcome comments to our entries. Point us to some news you’ve come across on your own, or bring up a discussion that’s been weighing on your mind. This is our way to involve you in our daily approach to covering the metalcasting industry. Visit us often to see what’s new in the industry. We’ll keep you posted.