This year marks the 50th anniversary of ASSEMBLY magazine. Since the publication debuted in the late 1950s, we have provided in-depth coverage of key trends, issues and challenges affecting the wide world of welding. Here's a look at how welding technology has changed over the last 5 decades.

As model mix increases and production volume decreases, assemblers are discovering that tried and true manufacturing strategies no longer apply.

Structural adhesive is being used for more and more assembly applications.

Automated welding can provide large gains in productivity and profitability - in the right applications.

Stud welding is a process by which a metal stud is joined to a metal workpiece by heating both parts with an arc of electricity. Compared with other welding and fastening processes, stud welding offers faster assembly with fewer steps. This article explains how this process can be used for profitable and reliable assembly.

The product has been designed, the assembly process laid out and the appropriate technologies selected. Now all you have to do is pitch the project to the person who signs the checks.

Supplier evaluation is not an easy process. Many different formulas and techniques can be used. One effective method assigns suppliers to four basic categories based upon their level of performance in key areas, such as delivery, quality and responsiveness.