cnc machine

Haas CNC penalties upheld

2008-06-28T22:12:00.000-07:00

In two separate actions on Monday, the National Stock Car Racing Commission upheld penalties imposed against Haas CNC Racing for upper rear wing mounting point violations found on both Haas CNC cars May 24 at Lowe's Motor Speedway. The rulings were announced Tuesday.

In upholding the penalties, the commission rejected Haas CNC Racing's appeal, which dealt not with the infractions themselves but with the severity of the punishment. The crux of the commission's decision lay in its finding that the violations appeared to be intentional.

The harshest aspect of the penalties imposed by NASCAR was the suspension for six races of the crew chiefs and car chiefs of both cars, an unprecedented action. Crew chiefs Bootie Barker and Dave Skog also were fined $100,000 each. The two cars had been confiscated and taken to NASCAR's research and development center in Concord, N.C., the day the infractions were discovered.

In addition, drivers Scott Riggs (No. 66 Chevrolet) and Johnny Sauter (No. 70 Chevrolet) were docked 150 championship points each. Owners Joe Custer (No. 66) and Margaret Haas (No. 70) were docked 150 owner points each.

Acting on a tip from a garage source, NASCAR discovered that the location of the upper rear wing mounting points had been altered, ostensibly between May 23 qualifying for the Coca-Cola 600 and the running of the race itself on May 25.

The crew chiefs and car chiefs of both cars will remain on probation through Dec. 31, 2008. Derick Jennings is car chief of the No. 66 car; Thomas Harris is car chief of the No. 70.

http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=421967

old cnc-machine

2008-06-14T03:49:00.001-07:00

CNC machining and CNC turning services from Laser Processing Industries

2008-05-26T06:36:00.000-07:00

Laser Processing Industries provides of CNC machining and CNC turning services. In addition to offering CNC machining and CNC turning services, Laser Processing Industries also provides laser cutting, abrasive jet cutting, metal folding, bandsaw cutting and surface grinding services. All these cutting, folding, machining, turning and grinding services provide an artistic finish to various materials.

Laser Processing Industries offers CNC machining services for aluminium, brass, copper, plastics, mild steel, high tensile steels, stainless steel etc. Laser Processing Industries uses high torque 15 kilo watt high Speed 10000 RPM spindle for performing CNC machining. Laser Processing Industries holds a team of highly experienced professionals to provide value added services to its clients.

Laser Processing Industries provides CNC turning services for brass, copper, engineering plastics, high tensile steels, mild steel, stainless steel and most other materials. Laser Processing Industries offers CNC turning services with high speed 5000 RPM spindles to ensure improved efficiency and quality. The quality machine tools for servicing purposes enable high levels of accuracy and repeatability. The machine tools feature automatic bar feed and part catching facilities.
http://www.ferret.com.au/c/Laser-Processing-Industries/

CNC Training

2008-05-09T23:13:00.000-07:00

CNC (computer numerically controlled) machines are often used for the rapid prototyping of parts or the development of mechanical components in low volume. CNC machines are often used to build parts that are used to setup (tool) a high volume production line. A CNC machine allows very precise, highly repeatable milling and machining instructions that are programmed into the CNC machine much like a computer program. Schools offering CNC training familiarize you with the basic functions of the machine and how to program the machine.

CNC training programs are designed for people with existing experience in machining or manufacturing design. CNC program courses concentrate on the use of the Fanuc/GE style g-code programming language to operate CNC machinery such as mills and lathes. In Mastercam training you learn to process CAD drawings through CAM software and automate the g-code writing process. Learning CNC will give you the advantage of mastering a specialized and in-demand set of skills.
http://www.education-online-search.com/programs/

Breton CNC Machine

2008-04-26T21:47:00.000-07:00

Handheld CNC data storage

2008-04-13T06:45:00.001-07:00

RBR Associates Inc. and CNCini, both of Darien, Ill., have developed a software program that runs on the Palm OS platform and turns a PDA into a data-storage device for CNC machine tools.

The CncGcoder is a G-code program storage and editing device for CNC machine tools.

The CncGcoder system backs up and edits CNC machine tool G-code programs. The software lets users define special settings for up to 1,000 different machines and allows for storage of up to 1,000 G-code programs per machine. Users can edit programs directly on the handheld and perform backups by syncing up the information from the PDA to a desktop or laptop PC.

The system is in place at Parker Hannifin Corp., where the manager of manufacturing systems, Domingo Mojica, reports on the device's compatibility.

"I am impressed by how easily it interfaces with most CNCs, no matter how old the machine is or the brand of control," he says.

The system is sold as a package including the handheld computer, all associated software, and interface cables.

http://www.americanmachinist.com/304/Issue/Article/False/8165/

Okuma America introduces next-generation CNC lathe

2008-04-01T21:44:00.000-07:00

Okuma America Corp has introduced the Crown, the latest computer numerical control (CNC) lathe which offers upgraded features such as high-torque spindle motor, servo-driven tool turret and an ergonomically designed machine enclosure. The Crown, which comes in three models, was designed to facilitate production and streamline CNC turning operations. It is also capable of a 10,000 unit production cycles until the year 2005.

Machine tool builder Okuma America Corporation has introduced a new CNC lathe to address the growing need for a family of products suited to the needs of both first-time CNC users as well as experienced manufacturers supplying diverse industries with precision turned parts. Designated the Crown, Okuma's lathe offers a high-torque spindle motor, direct-drive headstock, servo-driven tool turret, an economically-configured machine enclosure, and a compact 95.47 by 69.4 inch machine footprint.

The new lathe is currently available in three models, the 10 hp Crown-E, the 15 hp Standard Bore, and 20 hp Big Bore. A V12 hydraulic turret is standard with the Crown-E. The Standard Bore and Big Bore models both use a V12 numerically controlled servomotor turret. Okuma engineers note that the new lathe is intended to be what they describe as "an evolutionary" product driven by the demands of end-users and the worldwide machine tool marketplace. Okuma officials project the production life-cycle of the Crown family at some 10,000 units through the year 2005.

Okuma America president John Hendrick explained, "We began production of the Crown this past April, initially producing some 40 units which comprise the first shipments to our Okuma distributor locations throughout North and South America. These first lathes began shipping from our Charlotte plant in June, with production reaching 60 units a month by July and up to 80 units monthly as early as next year.

The E-Series Crown offers entry-level CNC pricing, based on a hydraulic turret system that provides station-to-station tool index times of 0.8 seconds. The S-Type Crown, with its servo-driven turret, cuts tool index times to 0.2 seconds. Depending upon the model selected, main spindle speeds are infinitely variable between either 75 and 4200 rpm or 65 and 3500 rpm. Machine travels in the Z and X axes are the same for all models: X-axis, 7.28 inches; Z-axis, 20.47 inches; X-axis rapid feed rate, 590.55 ipm; and Z-axis, 787.4 ipm.

Okuma design engineers stress that the Crown is designed to facilitate production and simplify CNC turning operations. For example, the Crown's unusual, rounded enclosure helps deflect fluids and chips away from the workpiece, while it facilitates operator access for routine set up and parts removal operations. The lathe's Okuma-manufactured OSP CNC system pivots 90 degrees from the machine for convenient viewing during programming operations. According to the builder, the on-board MacMan system streamlines diagnostic procedures to cut troubleshooting time, while the OSP's integral floppy disk drive enables operators to quickly load custom CNC machining programs authored on a conventional PC.

Prospective Crown customers currently range from entry-level CNC users to multinational automotive manufacturers and their first-tier suppliers. Mr. Hendrick adds, "With Okuma's 1996 introduction of the CADET-Mate and CADET-V machining centers and this year's CTV-30 and CTV-40 vertical machining centers, in combination with its CNC grinder line, the new Crown lathe further positions the company to market a complete line of advanced machine tools with the commortality of OSP computer numerical control.

Okuma America Corporation is the U.S. affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a worldwide machine tool builder founded in Nagoya, Japan, in 1898. Established in Long Island, New York, in 1984, Okuma American today has a 364,000 square foot headquarters, manufacturing and training facility in Charlotte, North Carolina, employing 400 persons.

Okuma America Corp has introduced the Crown, the latest computer numerical control (CNC) lathe which offers upgraded features such as high-torque spindle motor, servo-driven tool turret and an ergonomically designed machine enclosure. The Crown, which comes in three models, was designed to facilitate production and streamline CNC turning operations. It is also capable of a 10,000 unit production cycles until the year 2005.

Machine tool builder Okuma America Corporation has introduced a new CNC lathe to address the growing need for a family of products suited to the needs of both first-time CNC users as well as experienced manufacturers supplying diverse industries with precision turned parts. Designated the Crown, Okuma's lathe offers a high-torque spindle motor, direct-drive headstock, servo-driven tool turret, an economically-configured machine enclosure, and a compact 95.47 by 69.4 inch machine footprint.

The new lathe is currently available in three models, the 10 hp Crown-E, the 15 hp Standard Bore, and 20 hp Big Bore. A V12 hydraulic turret is standard with the Crown-E. The Standard Bore and Big Bore models both use a V12 numerically controlled servomotor turret. Okuma engineers note that the new lathe is intended to be what they describe as "an evolutionary" product driven by the demands of end-users and the worldwide machine tool marketplace. Okuma officials project the production life-cycle of the Crown family at some 10,000 units through the year 2005.

Okuma America president John Hendrick explained, "We began production of the Crown this past April, initially producing some 40 units which comprise the first shipments to our Okuma distributor locations throughout North and South America. These first lathes began shipping from our Charlotte plant in June, with production reaching 60 units a month by July and up to 80 units monthly as early as next year.

The E-Series Crown offers entry-level CNC pricing, based on a hydraulic turret system that provides station-to-station tool index times of 0.8 seconds. The S-Type Crown, with its servo-driven turret, cuts tool index times to 0.2 seconds. Depending upon the model selected, main spindle speeds are infinitely variable between either 75 and 4200 rpm or 65 and 3500 rpm. Machine travels in the Z and X axes are the same for all models: X-axis, 7.28 inches; Z-axis, 20.47 inches; X-axis rapid feed rate, 590.55 ipm; and Z-axis, 787.4 ipm.

Okuma design engineers stress that the Crown is designed to facilitate production and simplify CNC turning operations. For example, the Crown's unusual, rounded enclosure helps deflect fluids and chips away from the workpiece, while it facilitates operator access for routine set up and parts removal operations. The lathe's Okuma-manufactured OSP CNC system pivots 90 degrees from the machine for convenient viewing during programming operations. According to the builder, the on-board MacMan system streamlines diagnostic procedures to cut troubleshooting time, while the OSP's integral floppy disk drive enables operators to quickly load custom CNC machining programs authored on a conventional PC.

Prospective Crown customers currently range from entry-level CNC users to multinational automotive manufacturers and their first-tier suppliers. Mr. Hendrick adds, "With Okuma's 1996 introduction of the CADET-Mate and CADET-V machining centers and this year's CTV-30 and CTV-40 vertical machining centers, in combination with its CNC grinder line, the new Crown lathe further positions the company to market a complete line of advanced machine tools with the commortality of OSP computer numerical control.

Okuma America Corporation is the U.S. affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a worldwide machine tool builder founded in Nagoya, Japan, in 1898. Established in Long Island, New York, in 1984, Okuma American today has a 364,000 square foot headquarters, manufacturing and training facility in Charlotte, North Carolina, employing 400 persons.

http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1G1-20045238.html

CNC AUTOMATED CARPENTRY

2008-03-01T23:04:00.000-08:00

A Bermuda-based woodworking company's CNC (computer numeric controlled) machine paid for itself after only nine months of operation by allowing the company to profitably handle jobs they would have turned away in the past. There is a great need on the island for complicated woodwork such as shutters and decorative pieces such as carved signs. Carpenters with traditional tools can't do these jobs fast enough to make them profitable. As the only owner of a CNC machine on Bermuda, CNC Automated Carpentry has now captured this entire market. In the first nine months of using the machine, the company produced a variety of pieces including decorated rafter ends, signs with elaborate lettering and logos, arched door frames, and $30,000 worth of shutters. Most of these projects would have taken days or weeks to do by hand, if they could have been done at all. Yet they were finished in hours on the CNC machine. "Jobs that we would have turned away in the past have been done on the machine at more than a 30 percent profit," says Rick Vesely, partner, CNC Automated Carpentry. "In less than one year of owning it, we've billed $450,000 worth of work."

CNC Automated Carpentry of Bermuda was started last year by three partners with many years of construction experience on the island. Having worked with traditional tools all of their careers, they knew there were certain jobs that were just too time consuming to be profitable. For example, nearly all houses on the island have shutters to protect against storms and also to provide shade in the heat of the day. "The demand for new shutters is huge but making them by hand is extremely difficult," says Rick Vesely, one of CNC Automated Carpentry's partners. "With our previous methods, we just turned away that work." Other projects were also too labor-intensive to be profitable. These included any kind of highly detailed woodwork, such as decorative touches on rafters, or intricately lettered signs for homes or businesses. Since carpenters on Bermuda could not do this type of work without losing money, it was either sent abroad or just not done.

Finding the right machine

When the three partners decided to start their own business, they realized that the ability to take on the jobs that typically left the island would be a strong competitive advantage. One of the options they found was a louvre-groover machine, which is specific to producing shutters. At a cost of $35,000, it was ruled out because that was all it could do. "There was a lot of other work besides shutters that we wanted do and we couldn't see tying up so much of our capital on one machine," Vesely adds. So they looked into computer technology that could automate the production of intricate and difficult pieces. "We didn't know a lot about computers, but we knew there were machines that could be programmed to cut wood automatically according to drawings in the computer," says Vesely. "This would be preferable to a louvre-groover because it could perform multiple operations, such as routing, shaping, mortising, and so on."

Quickly, they turned their search to the Internet. After some initial research, they were not thrilled. First, they found a heavy and expensive machining center designed mostly for metalworking. The enormous price tag of the machining center greatly exceeded their company's budget allocation of $50,000. Next, they looked into an inexpensive router but it was also less accurate and wasn't equipped to handle the highly intricate carving that they needed for their detailed artistic carvings. Then, they found the Techno CNC Machine from Techno-isel, New Hyde Park, New York, which offered the best of both worlds; the Techno router was affordable, accurate and versatile. Truly a great deal for the Bermuda woodworkers. The machine performs production routing and drilling on a wide variety of materials including wood, plastic, MDF, solid surfacing materials and nonferrous metals. The machine price included CAM software capable of creating designs as well as importing them from nearly every CAD system.

"After we studied these machines for a while, we learned why the Techno machine delivers higher accuracy compared to the low-end routers," says Vesely. "One reason is that it is made of higher quality materials." For example, the Techno machine is constructed on steel stress-relieved bases with hardened steel linear ways. Its shaft-and-bearing system produces very smooth, play-free motion and is an extremely rigid system that produces high-quality cuts. The machine also uses anti-backlash ballscrews. These screws have excellent power transmission due to the rolling ball contact between the nut and screws. This type of contact ensures low friction, low wear, and long life. The ballscrews also make it possible to produce wooden parts to the machine resolution of 0.0005 inch. "Instead of being ballscrew-driven, the less expensive machines use rack and pinion gearing, which has too much play to make accurate cuts in small areas." Vesely adds. "Also this type of gearing wears out quickly in the dusty environment of a carpentry shop. The other main difference we found between the Techno machine and the others was that the Techno uses a servo motor to control cutting motion while other machines use stepper motors, which can give a stair-step cutting effect." A servo motor gives the Techno machine a positioning accuracy of +1 mm in 300 mm and a repeatability of 0.01 mm.

Good vendor support

None of the partners had ever used CNC equipment before. "Our only computer experience was with PCs," says Vesely. "When we got the machine, we didn't even know how to turn it on. That's another big reason we're happy we went with Techno," he adds. "They have provided us with excellent support. They walked us through all the issues we were unfamiliar with, from creating drawings in the CAM program to setting up parts on the table. They have never failed to help us when we had a question."

Since installing the Techno machine CNC Automated Carpentry has found it to be "the most versatile tool in the shop," according to Vesely. The wide range of projects that the machine has been used for certainly bears this out. One of its main roles is for producing shutters. "Now we are meeting this huge demand," says Vesely. The partners have also used the machine to create large pieces such as templates that were cumbersome to do by hand. "Another construction company needed these really large templates for arched doorways," Vesely explains. "With traditional tools, they would have had to lay out three or four sheets of plywood or MDF board on the ground and cut these 180-inch radiuses with a jig saw. Then they would have spent a lot of time hand sanding to their marks but even so, templates would not have been accurate enough." He estimates that the job would have taken six or seven hours to do by hand. Instead, the other company asked CNC Automated Carpentry to make the templates on the CNC machine. Vesely was able to program the arch shape and have templates ready to cut in an hour. Total time to produce five templates, including programming and cutting, was two days. "They were perfect half rounds, which was far more accurate than they ever could have been by hand," he adds.

On another job, the machine was used to create scrollwork for the exposed ends of rafters. This was a big job involving about 60 15-foot rafters. Normally, the scrollwork would have been hand cut from plywood templates. "This job would have been very labor-intensive by hand because after all the time you spent cutting, you would have to go back and sand each rafter as well. It would have taken at least two days," explains Vesely. "We programmed the scroll work in the CAM program, put these large rafters on the machine and cut each one in less than 20 seconds. We did all 60 in one hour. As fast we could put a rafter on the machine and press 'Start,' it was done." After evaluating the labor hours and the cost of the materials, the company determined that it made a 35 percent profit on that job.

The company also used the machine to create a menu box for a restaurant. It could have been just a basic wooden box, but knowing how easy it would be to do more elaborate work with the Techno machine, Vesely decided to embellish the box. "The restaurant is called Robin Hood Pub and their sign has little Robin Hood hats on it," he explains. "I programmed a few of those hats and some arrows in the CAM software and used the Techno machine to carve those features into the wood. It made it a more interesting than just plain wood." He also used the machine for an unusual job involving a BMW convertible. The owner wanted speakers mounted in the trunk an had left some oval holes for access to the wiring. He wanted to cover these holes with something that he could see through but wouldn't break due to vibration from the speakers. Vesely used the Techno machine to cut one-inch thick pieces of acrylic to fit the holes precisely. Then he took the additional step of carving the BMW and speaker vendor's logos in acrylic. "When people see these, they don't think they were done on this island," Vesely adds.

The purchase of a CNC machine was an excellent way for the three partners of CNC Automated Carpentry to start their business. It ensured a competitive edge and has enabled the company to handle a great deal of work with only four people. And the machine paid for itself so quickly that its use in the future will be even more profitable.

http://www.techno-isel.com/CNC_Routers/Testimonials/Articles/CNC_Automation.htm

CAD/CAM and nesting programs CNC punching

2008-02-08T17:44:00.000-08:00

CAD/CAM and nesting software programs all CNC punching and profiling machines and has been optimised to to further improve the cutting path in complex nests

Jetcam International has announced its latest version V16 of its Expert CAD/CAM and nesting software for all CNC punching and profiling machines. Offering twice the power of the earlier V8 system, the latest version V16 includes features aimed at providing enhanced functionality for interactive tasked and further automation for users looking for semi or completely unmanned systems.

Jetcam will also be increasing the number of end user releases in 2008, ensuring that users can immediately take advantage of each new feature as soon as it is available.

JETCAM Expert V16's sequencing routines have been optimised to further improve the cutting path, which can considerably reduce the overall cutting time of complex nests.

A new reporting engine has also been included to provide comprehensive and customisable reports.

A report designer is included, where users can simply 'drag and drop' the required fields or tables of information onto the page.

Single component or complete nest images can also be added.
Reports of any size or format can be generated, including labels for single label printers.

* CNC punching - further development specific to punching machines has also been announced.

Automatic tooling placement logic has been further optimised, providing users of punching machines with the same level of automation as profiling machines.

Tools are automatically placed on the component based on highly configurable parameters.

This information is then carried through to all related nests - if the component is updated then this is automatically reflected on the nest.

'Tool teach mode' further enhances the automatic tooling facilities by allowing JETCAM to 'learn' a user's preferred method of tooling a particular contour.

* Nesting - JETCAM's free form high performance nesting module (FFHPN) for V16 has also undergone further development, with the latest release offering even greater efficiencies.

With metal prices increasing even a 1% material saving can quickly mount up to a considerable amount, said Jetcam to manufacturingtalk.com.

Jetcam is also offering prospective customers a free 'nesting benchmark comparison' whereby they will compare a user's existing nests with one created through FFHPN.

Commented Mike Weber, managing director Jetcam International: 'These features in Release V16, when combined allow a JETCAM Expert system to rapidly become self-sufficient.

It intelligently and accurately applies logic so that the whole CAM process can become truly hands-off, especially when JETCAM's Remote Control Processing (RCP) system is employed' He continued: 'With our knowledge of the complexities of today's powerful CNC machines this frees the operator for other tasks, maximises machine runtime and reduces material waste.

For any size of organisation this level of automation has to be their goal to remain competitive in today's climate of cost reductions.

Companies employing manufacturing efficiency methodologies such as 'Six Sigma' will benefit from a system that provides a data-driven approaches to problem solving with a focus on customer impact.

Any business purchase has to be justified by return on investment, and JETCAM continues to deliver this in three key areas: material utilisation, machine cycle time and programming time'.

V16 will be available for download from the JETCAM.com web site in February 2008.

Existing customers under maintenance will be able to download the software immediately at no cost.

Customers out of maintenance need only to purchase a maintenance contract to gain access to the latest features - there is no additional upgrade price to pay.

CNC Machining Energizes Manufacturer

2008-01-26T05:59:00.000-08:00

Greg G. Wright 8ß Sons LLC (Cincinnati) traces its history back to its founding in 1860 as a pioneer in manufacturing engraved steel blocks, custom tags and plates, and metal stampings.

As a US manufacturer, Carl Fries, president and CEO, is a realist and a fighter, who believes that there are opportunities for the shop that employs newer technology and higher quality technology.

"I think technology will open doors that have previously been closed. The name of the game is speed-to be able to process your parts as fast as possible at the highest level of quality. If you're not doing that, it's only a matter of time before you're done," Fries says.
Today's Wright & Sons occupies 34,000 ft^sup 2^ (3179 m^sup 2^) and employs some 20 operators and tool and die craftsmen-three with more than 40 years and many others with 20-plus years on the Greg G. Wright & Sons team. When Fries took over the company, there were two divisions, which he combined.

"When I stepped in, the company was very near death, and I had to breathe new life into it. I got rid of 25 to 35 manual machines and about 30,000 Ib [13,608 kg] of scrap. It was ridiculous. There was a single small CNC router to make patterns, but not a single computer-aided machine tool in the shop. My first purchase was a CNC EDM sinker to engrave tools. At the time, engraving was our primary market. My background was CNC turning and milling, and I knew that eventually I'd move the company in that direction in a major fashion."
That is precisely what he did, investing in CNC turning and milling equipment to position the company to be competitive in an increasingly global market. He sold off manual machines, replacing them with CNC machines, many of which were used but in good shape.

Then, too, Fries realized he had to move away from Wright & Son's traditional target markets of engraving and metal stamping. To do that, he signed up with two Internet matching services to get his name and capabilities out before a broader audience and emphasize his focus on CNC turning and milling. He has mixed feelings about the Internet experience, and thinks it's still hard to replace face-to-face, palm-to-palm relationships, especially when working on large dollar and time-commitment jobs.

"For example, we've been working on a special project for CompX Fort [River Grove, IL]," Fries says. "We turn a ring on a Hardinge Quest Super Precision, roll-mark it, and then EDM a cut. The final EDM work is be done by a third party. Our customer uses a pneumatic air cylinder to spread the ring open to put a thick key on it.

"We've paid CompX Fort a visit to show them samples of the job, and they've been very pleased. This is a $50,000 contract, and they don't come around all that often to a $2-$3 million company. If this relationship blossoms, there are quite a few other parts we could be making for them. And we're working face-to-face. For me there's a certain comfort in that, as unfounded as many may think that is today," he says.

Right now, Fries says, the focus, short and long term, is getting Wright & Sons up to speed on CNC-CNC turning, CNC milling, and CNC Swiss turning. Evidence of this is a new Hardinge (Elmira, NY) Bridgeport 760XP3 VMC. "We got the 760 about four months ago when we started getting more and larger contracts for precision milling work," Fries says.

"Our existing VMC just couldn't keep pace. Granted, it's 14 years old, and technology has changed considerably in a decade and a half. But when we decided to expand our milling capacity we went with whom I knew best: Bridgeport and Hardinge. And before we really had the 760 set up and running, we ordered a second 760, which should be here anytime now."

What drove the order for the first Bridgeport 760XP^sup 3^ was the awarding of a sizeable order for precision gas flanges for commercial jet engines.

"We run these parts chucked face up in a vise, four at a time," explains Gary Foster, tool-room manager. "Cycle time is roughly 28 min. The material is 410 stainless. The tolerance on the overall height is ±0.001'' [0.25 mm] and ±0.005'' [0.13 mm] or ±0.0010± (0.13 mm) on the shoulder. The Fanuc 18i MB handles all the interpolation of the holes, the large center hole and the perimeter holes, the face milling and radii. When the top face is finished, the part is turned over and refixtured in an adjacent vise on the table, face down, where the bottom is fly-cut to assure proper part thickness."

After the parts are fly-cut, they're placed on a fixture 20 at a time for finish grinding of the backside, which brings the pan into final finish dimension. "This is the only operation that isn't done on the 760," Foster says. "In the past there were a number of secondary operations to finish this part. Now, this is the only one, this light grinding to bring the thickness into spec."

All 11 tools that are needed are in the 30-tool ATC. "Between the control and the ATC we've got a cycle time of 28 min, whereas the previous method took twice that long," Foster says. "The 290 psi [2 MPa] throughspindle coolant feature makes a real difference. We can take a flat-bottom drill at a rate of 4 ipm [106.6 mm/min] and pop the center hole through the stainless in 7 sec. Without the through-spindle coolant, we couldn't do that. It would heat up so quickly that the tool would burn into the material.
http://findarticles.com

Robot unloader for CNC machines

2008-01-26T05:57:00.000-08:00

To make the unloading process more efficient, Bardons & Oliver offers a robot unloader for CNC machines. After the part is cut off and discharged, a lifting mechanism positions the part so it can be unloaded by the robot arm. Lifting the parts with a magnet, the unloader can be programmed to tilt the part to dump any coolant prior to stacking. It can then stack the part in a bundle frame or move the part to the next operation. With the ability to swing 180 degrees, the robot can service two machines by swinging back and forth.

Matsuura LX0 5AX Linear Motor CNC Machine

2008-01-19T00:42:00.000-08:00

Usage Of CNC Router Tables

2008-01-12T10:13:00.001-08:00

Depending on the kind of machine used, a CNC router table is used to cut metals, plastic or wood. This router table also doubles as equipment for engraving. Hence it can also be used for common routing work or making CNC lettering. So from one machine you get more advantage due to the extra double usage facility.

In recent years popularity of this machine for small shops or house use purpose is growing. Demand is steadily increasing as people come to know more about its versatility and precision. To save money most people are opting for used versions of this machine to own it.

While a ready-made machine is still costly for many users, one can make one's own by following plans that can be found online. This way you not only save hard-earned money but also according to your requirement can choose the size from 50 by 60 to 15 by 15.

CNC Routers usability

A project that might have taken a long time to accomplish or difficult can be quickly and easily done with CNC routers. It can precisely and accurately create in wood metal inlays and cut out elaborate or complicated designs. All those things that could never be done by hand are easily taken care off.

While making furniture this machine every time produces professional results. You can even set per pass depth for better outcome with the help of the software. Engraving large signs to intricate small letter is easy. Once you get trained how to operate the software, using this handy machine is a walk in the park.

Machines of smaller size can be operated at a general household current of 120 volts. If you have a workshop at your house this is the right choice. Usually the motor uses horsepower of one or two. The new tabletop smaller model is cost friendly at about $7000 as against the larger models costing around $20,000. Though still a bit expensive the used machines cost about $3500 but that gets covered if you produce furniture's to sell.

CNC needs CNC support - computer numerical control machines

2007-12-30T06:30:00.000-08:00

Outdated secondary-operation machines were strangling the productivity of a Chicago-area screw machine shop's impressive battery of CNC screw machines. Now, CNC drilling and tapping machines and turning centers are providing secondary machining efficiency that has raised the firm's performance to a level few competitors can match.

When you drive past the building, with its concave front and narrow, close-set, floor-to-ceiling windows, you would guess an insurance firm, or an engineering or architectural firm, or perhaps an association office. In fact, the distinctive exterior pictured in Figure 1 houses the operations of General Automation, Inc., one of the most impressive screw machine shops in the country.

General Automation specializes in, among other things, Swiss screw machine parts, that is, workpieces with high length-to-diameter ratios. The firm produces them on numerous Swiss-type cam automatic screw machines, arranged like spokes on large wheels, bar feeds toward the center. (The arrangement makes the most efficient use of floor space and makes it easier for the operators to load the machines and tend their operation.)

Although cam-operated screw machines have been around for generations, they remain a very competitive method for producing workpieces in large quantities. They can produce workpieces in less time (a shorter cycle) than by most other methods.

But cam automatics are inefficient when the job involves making a few prototypes, or a small quantity of workpieces, or when machined part dimensions must be accurate to one or two ten-thousandths of an inch. Such jobs are best handled on CNC screw machines.

Advantages Of CNC

Screw machine shops are aware of the advantages of CNC screw machines; many have one or two in order to remain competitive on prototype work, short run jobs, and jobs where fast turnaround and/or high quality are critical. However, few shops are in a position to invest in enough CNC screw machines to comprise a separate department.

General Automation is one of the few. The firm operates some 63 Nomura CNC Swiss-type screw machines--the largest concentration of such machines in the U.S. The CNC Swiss-type screw machine offers a number of advantages over the older cam automatic screw machine. As its name implies, the cam automatic's cutting tool movements are controlled by a set of cams specially made for the workpiece being produced.

The CNC screw machine needs no cams. Tool movements are automatically determined by data from the dimensions of the part, fed into the machine's CNC unit. The workpiece can be programmed on the CNC right at the machine. Or, as is more often the case, the program can be prepared on a programming system located off the shop floor, and loaded in the machine's control when required. The control's "memory" is capable of storing dozens of workpiece programs; preparing the CNC screw machine to produce a different workpiece simply involves calling up the program for the next job, minimizing machine downtime between jobs.

Because CNC machine tools handle job change-overs much faster than manual or automatic machines, they are usually thought of as "short-run machines." By contrast, cam automatics, which are noted for their very rapid cycle times, are considered "production machines," ideal for producing large quantities of workpieces over long periods of time.

However, General Automation's CNC screw machines are faster than its cam automatics, so the company benefits not only from fast, easy machine setups, but from fast workpiece cycle times as well. According to General Automation president Max Starr, the CNC Swiss-type machines are frequently the most economical choice for complex workpieces, regardless of the length of the run.

Other advantages of the CNC screw machines are their greater accuracy and piece-to-piece consistency. Both are important to today's product manufacturers who demand parts machined to finer dimensional tolerances--and that those parts be within tight statistical process control parameters.

Another big advantage of the CNC screw machines--important to any job shop concerned about controlling costs--is that operator responsibilities are reduced to monitoring the machines and keeping their bar feeds filled. This enables General Automation to use less skilled operators at lower hourly rates.

A Weak Link

General Automation's CNC screw machines, added to the firm's other single- and multispindle automatic screw machines, give it a primary turning capability that few, if any, shops can match. But they called attention to a serious shortcoming in another part of General Automation's operation.

The firm's machining requirements typically include milling, drilling, tapping and other hole-making operations, in addition to secondary turning. The secondary turning requirements were met by a number of precision, small-part, turning centers, most equipped with automatic part-loading devices to permit untended operation over long intervals. But hole-making operations (drilling, tapping, and so on) were performed on older manual or automatic machines that were dragging down production times on jobs and compromising dimensional accuracies initially provided by the CNC screw machines.

CNC lathes' controls have enhanced simulation

2007-12-23T02:47:00.000-08:00

Latest CNC lathes feature Fanuc OiTC conversational programming based control which includes enhanced 3D graphics simulation and are an ideal platform for novice operators to program

Loaded with the latest revolutionary Fanuc Manual Guide i software in the Fanuc OiTC conversational programming based control which includes enhanced 3D graphics simulation, the Colchester MultiTurn 2000 provides the ideal platform for novice operators to program and have full confidence in machining cycles created prior to cutting metal.

The previous generation Colchester MultiTurn 2000 has already proven to be a top-seller being equally useable for single part manual cycles using computer macro and tool path assist or full CNC repeat operations over a small batch of parts direct from memory and with the latest changes, it is predicted wider use of the machine in training type applications will be created.

The very competitively priced latest version of the mid-range MultiTurn 2000 enables parts up to 400mm diameter by 1250mm long to be swung over the bed.

However, by utilising the gap bed, a swing of 585mm by 165mm is available.

It is the Fanuc OiTc CNC contouring control with the powerful but simple and quick to use Fanuc Manual Guide i conversational programming that sets this machine apart.

It enables the operator to manually turn a part using its electronic handwheels with the control screen functioning as a digital readout for tool positioning.

To this, a series of canned cycles can be added to reduce the input required and the operator also has the facility to cut and paste or call-up his own prepared macros to create the toolpath.

Further help is at hand in building a program through an extensive tool library able to store up to 64 tools with the added supporting bonus of virtual tool and solid modelling programs plus on-screen CAD/CAM using icon-based commands.

For the advanced user, conventional CNC programming can be performed using G-codes.

And, in the same fashion as a normal CNC lathe, programs can be downloaded by DNC or input from a 'flash card' taken from a PC.

The MultiTurn CNC lathe is very competitively priced and provides high levels of functionality that takes full advantage of the 7.5kW spindle drive.

The spindle is carried on a cast iron flat bed with an eight-station 360mm diameter, bi-directional, electrically indexing disc turret capable of holding 20mm by 20mm tool section size and 32mm diameter boring bars.

Quick-change toolposts from Parat, Multifix or Dickson are available on request.

A three-jaw 250mm scroll chuck and No5 MT revolving centre is standard with options of four-jaw independent and three-jaw powered chucks.

A complete range of travelling and fixed steadies can also be supplied by Colchestersales (UK).

The ergonomically positioned Fanuc OiTC control has a large 10.4in colour screen and can be moved totally independently of the fully interlocked enclosure which has twin, slide-

http://www.manufacturingtalk.com/news/clc/clc196.html

CNC’s with conversational programming

2007-12-15T19:10:00.000-08:00

The Fagor 8040 and 8055 CNC units feature dual operating systems. One system provides icon key-based conversational programming while the other provides traditional programming using standard G codes.

The conversational system helps less experienced operators create a CNC program for small-lot production or prototyping. The G-code system allows the expert operator to create optimized programs for large-run applications. For conversational programming, the user presses a key bearing an icon of the milling operation that calls up a picture of a sample part with entry boxes for appropriate axis coordinates, dimensions and conditions that define the operation. The user can then execute the created program or save it.
http://articles.onlineb2bmarket.com/category/cnc-system/

Superior Tool Service Celebrates 20th Year & Installs 4th CNC Grinding Machine

2007-12-08T06:13:00.000-08:00

Superior Toot Service, Inc., Wichita, Kansas, has recently installed its fourth ANCA CNC grinding machine and is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

The firm specializes in industrial tool and cutter grinding, manufacturing and resharpening.

Founded in 1987 by Steve and Ellen Shofler, Superior Tool Service was started in the family's garage at the request of a customer.

Today, the company is in a custom built 6000-sq.-ft. facility (with a drive-up window) and features the new 11-axis ANCA CNC grinder with a CLX pallet loader ( the second one in the nation) as well as three other ANCA CNC grinding machines with 7 to 10 axis capabilities.

The new ANCA features upgraded software and new capabilities that will help Superior Tool Service serve a customer working with composites.

The shop also includes a wide variety of conventional grinders (22), a surface grinder, Starrett comparator and assorted support equipment. Tolerances can be maintained and measured to 0.0001.

"We are successful because of our great customers and our dedicated staff," noted Steve Shofler, a 32-year industry veteran. "We enjoy taking on the customers' challenges."

Ellen Shofler commented "Its been a fast 20 years. Our talents complement each other quite well ... he is the tooling expert and I have the ac count] counting/finance background. Hiring good people has also been key to our success."

Ellen is also 2nd VP of the Wichita Manufacturers Association, a 90-year-old group dedicated to supporting area manufacturing.
The company can modify, sharpen, size and radius a wide range of Hi speed and Carbide cutting tools including: end mills, mill cutters, comer rounding tools, gear hobbs, breaches, taps, reamers, piloted reamers, drills, step drills, countersinks, lathe tools and form tools.

Superior Tool Services' manufacturing capabilities include Hi Speed and Carbide end mills, line reamers, broaches, chamfer tools, porting tools, lathe tools and combination tools that do 2 or more operations at once, thereby saving the customer time and money. The company also produces prototypes.

The company's 14 staff has a broad knowledge of materials that customers use, everything from acrylic to Hastelloy and they modify clearance angles on their tools to match the material for longer tool life. The company motto is "Our tools are so sharp you can cut your costs with them!"

CNC laser profiler bevel cuts in 3D

2007-12-02T22:27:00.000-08:00

Versatile and affordable 2D and 3D CO2 laser machines, as well as performing profiling actions, offer also the possibility to bevel cut, and to cut 3D cubic components, tubes and profiles as well

Space gear MarkII Versatile and affordable 2D and 3D CO2 laser machine is a genuine Mazak innovative concept to offer a Multi Function laser cutting machine. No compromise on the cutting accuracy and feedrate. The Space Gear cuts in 2D with the same speed and accuracy than a normal 2D laser cutter.

But Space Gear offers also the possibility to bevel cut, and to cut 3D cubic components, tubes and profiles as well.

A new generation of laser resonator plus a proven constant-beam length delivery system provides unsurpassed cutting performance - anywhere on the table.

The laser resonator is integrated into the machine base casting to ensure reliable and stable cutting performance.

The cutting torch is equipped with a non contact 3-dimensional profiler which together with off-line teaching delivers exceptional productivity.

Several sizes and laser power are available depending of the customer application.

Cuts accurate tubes with 6-axis thanks to the 6-axis cutting torch and NC controlled rotary table the Space Gear cuts a wide variety of accurate pipe joints.

Space Cam generates also the programs to make the jigs The appropriate software is particularly required for cutting 3D parts.

Space Cam was especially developed for this application.

Space Cam generates the 3D cutting programs but also the programs to cut the jigs for supporting the parts during the cutting operation.

CNC Machine targets automotive parts manufacturers

2007-11-25T05:33:00.000-08:00

Single-spindle GENIUS 500 combines speed of linear motors along X and Y axes with force of ball screw along Z axis. It features XYZ travels of 630 x 630 x 1,000 mm, 500 x 500 mm pallet with 800 mm clearance diameter, and 16,000 rpm spindle with output of 25 hp/37.5 kW. Acceleration forces are resolved in vertical plane directly through walls of machine base, into machine foundations, enabling accelerations of 2.5 g and velocities up to 180 m/min.

CNC Combines the Speed of Linear Motors Along XY Axes with the Force of Ball Screw Along Z Axis STERLING HEIGHTS, MI - AUGUST 5, 2004 - Cross Huller North America, a leading manufacturer of production systems for the global automotive and off-road/construction industries, today announced the GENIUS 500, a high-performance single-spindle CNC combining the speed and acceleration of linear motor drives with the improved stiffness and rigidity of a parallel kinematic construction for X and Y axis.

"The GENIUS 500 provides our customers with an extremely fast and easily adaptable machining system requiring a minimum of space," says Ron Quaile, general manager, Cross Huller North America. "Automotive parts suppliers and other volume part manufacturers will improve quality, while reducing costs. That's the genius behind the GENIUS The GENIUS 500 features 630mm, 630mm and 1000mm X, Y and Z travels, a 500mm x 500mm pallet with 800mm clearance diameter and 16,000 RPM spindle with output of 25 HP / 37.5KW. Acceleration forces are resolved in a vertical plane directly through the walls of the machine base, into the machine foundations, enabling accelerations of 2.5g and velocities up to 180m/min. The Z-axis is powered by a conventional ball screw and servo motor combination to provide higher feed forces than possible with linear motor drives.

The GENIUS 500 is available with a pallet exchange system for stand-alone, small cell applications or with direct loading into a hydraulically actuated work-holding fixture via overhead gantry or robot.

About Cross Huller North America

Cross Huller North America is a business unit of Huller Hille GmbH, a division of ThyssenKrupp Technologies. Cross Huller provides low, medium ad high volume modular transfer line and agile production systems to the global automotive and off-road / construction industries. Cross Huller provides a common global machine tool architecture, while offering local application engineering and support. Cross Huller also provides extensive aftermarket services including spare parts, service, preventative maintenance and machine remanufacturing. Cross Huller is ISO 9001 and ISO 14000 certified, and also QS9000-TE supplement compliant.

Superior Tool Service Celebrates 20th Year & Installs 4th CNC Grinding Machine

2007-11-15T05:19:00.000-08:00

Superior Toot Service, Inc., Wichita, Kansas, has recently installed its fourth ANCA CNC grinding machine and is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

The firm specializes in industrial tool and cutter grinding, manufacturing and resharpening.

Founded in 1987 by Steve and Ellen Shofler, Superior Tool Service was started in the family's garage at the request of a customer.

Today, the company is in a custom built 6000-sq.-ft. facility (with a drive-up window) and features the new 11-axis ANCA CNC grinder with a CLX pallet loader ( the second one in the nation) as well as three other ANCA CNC grinding machines with 7 to 10 axis capabilities.

The new ANCA features upgraded software and new capabilities that will help Superior Tool Service serve a customer working with composites.

The shop also includes a wide variety of conventional grinders (22), a surface grinder, Starrett comparator and assorted support equipment. Tolerances can be maintained and measured to 0.0001.

"We are successful because of our great customers and our dedicated staff," noted Steve Shofler, a 32-year industry veteran. "We enjoy taking on the customers' challenges."

Ellen Shofler commented "Its been a fast 20 years. Our talents complement each other quite well ... he is the tooling expert and I have the ac count] counting/finance background. Hiring good people has also been key to our success."

The company can modify, sharpen, size and radius a wide range of Hi speed and Carbide cutting tools including: end mills, mill cutters, comer rounding tools, gear hobbs, breaches, taps, reamers, piloted reamers, drills, step drills, countersinks, lathe tools and form tools.

Superior Tool Services' manufacturing capabilities include Hi Speed and Carbide end mills, line reamers, broaches, chamfer tools, porting tools, lathe tools and combination tools that do 2 or more operations at once, thereby saving the customer time and money. The company also produces prototypes.

The company's 14 staff has a broad knowledge of materials that customers use, everything from acrylic to Hastelloy and they modify clearance angles on their tools to match the material for longer tool life. The company motto is "Our tools are so sharp you can cut your costs with them!"

CNC Grinder uses graphical and conversational programming

2007-11-09T00:40:00.000-08:00

Axium Power CNC system addresses all aspects of cylindrical and surface grinding process. Embedded grinding/dressing cycles are governed by menu-driven data entry as well as wizard-guided wheel and diamond origin setup. Cylindrical grinding process allows for full OD/ID grind cycle for 2-axis grinding machines and provides inclined axis capability by tilting grinding head or table. For surface grinding, machine offers full grind cycles for 3-axis machines.

Configured with a very effective combination set of hardware and software, Num's Axium Power CNC system is particularly well suited to address all aspects of the cylindrical and surface grinding process. This is a complete "off the shelf solution," with its embedded grinding/dressing cycles governed by a user-friendly menu-driven data entry, and wizard-guided wheel and diamond origin setup. The Num Axium Power CNC system saves the OEM or integrator years of software development effort, while lowering cost of employee training. It is perfectly suited for producing precision industrial parts requiring both dimensional accuracy and high-quality surface finish.

The cylindrical grinding process allows for a full OD/ID grind cycle for 2-Axis (X/Z) grinding machines and has inclined axis capability by tilting the grinding head or the table. The dressing station can be table-mounted or rear-positioned to accommodate all existing machines. Other capabilities include wheel dressing with single/double point or roller dresser and profile grinding.

For surface grinding, Num offers full grind cycles for 3-Axis (X/Y/Z) machines with wheel dressing with single/double point or roller dresser capabilities.

The Windows-based process is extremely user-friendly. Entry screens provide the machine operator with a comprehensive graphical programming approach that depicts the grinding wheel, work piece, and associated setup data in a clear and concise manner. The operator does not have to use ISO programming; he or she simply fills in the data fields presented to him/her by the program. After this data entry session, the cylindrical grinding program is automatically generated, stored, and ready for execution. On-line step-by-step video tutorials and graphical grinding simulation further facilitates the operation.

Superior Tool Service Celebrates 20th Year & Installs 4th CNC Grinding Machine

2007-11-03T08:10:00.000-07:00

Superior Toot Service, Inc., Wichita, Kansas, has recently installed its fourth ANCA CNC grinding machine and is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

The firm specializes in industrial tool and cutter grinding, manufacturing and resharpening.

Founded in 1987 by Steve and Ellen Shofler, Superior Tool Service was started in the family's garage at the request of a customer.

Today, the company is in a custom built 6000-sq.-ft. facility (with a drive-up window) and features the new 11-axis ANCA CNC grinder with a CLX pallet loader ( the second one in the nation) as well as three other ANCA CNC grinding machines with 7 to 10 axis capabilities.

The new ANCA features upgraded software and new capabilities that will help Superior Tool Service serve a customer working with composites.

The shop also includes a wide variety of conventional grinders (22), a surface grinder, Starrett comparator and assorted support equipment. Tolerances can be maintained and measured to 0.0001.

"We are successful because of our great customers and our dedicated staff," noted Steve Shofler, a 32-year industry veteran. "We enjoy taking on the customers' challenges."

Ellen Shofler commented "Its been a fast 20 years. Our talents complement each other quite well ... he is the tooling expert and I have the ac count] counting/finance background. Hiring good people has also been key to our success."

Ellen is also 2nd VP of the Wichita Manufacturers Association, a 90-year-old group dedicated to supporting area manufacturing.

The company can modify, sharpen, size and radius a wide range of Hi speed and Carbide cutting tools including: end mills, mill cutters, comer rounding tools, gear hobbs, breaches, taps, reamers, piloted reamers, drills, step drills, countersinks, lathe tools and form tools.

Superior Tool Services' manufacturing capabilities include Hi Speed and Carbide end mills, line reamers, broaches, chamfer tools, porting tools, lathe tools and combination tools that do 2 or more operations at once, thereby saving the customer time and money. The company also produces prototypes.

The company's 14 staff has a broad knowledge of materials that customers use, everything from acrylic to Hastelloy and they modify clearance angles on their tools to match the material for longer tool life. The company motto is "Our tools are so sharp you can cut your costs with them!"

Coatings for tools (for longer life and higher productivity) are also offered. They include: TiN, TiCN, TiAlN, ZrN, CrN and AlTN.

Superior Tool Service serves customers throughout midAmerica in a wide range of industries including: aircraft, marine, medical equipment, defense, aerospace, computers and high-performance automotive.

Stress-relieved tombstones for CNC machines

2007-10-27T01:16:00.000-07:00

Amrok tombstones are made to fit HMCs or other CNC machines with edge locating, hardened and ground wear pads, center locating or mounting holes. Manufacturer Advanced Machine & Engineering offers the tombstones with plain faces, hole-grid patterns with precision bushings and threaded inserts, precision T-slots, or in other custom configurations to accommodate customer specifications. All tombstones and plates are stress-relieved.
The tombstones are available in steel, cast iron, aluminum and epoxy-mineral. According to the company, epoxy mineral tombstones can provide better vibration damping than aluminum or cast iron, and they are useful for high speed machining centers, for which weight and accuracy are crucial factors. The tombstones are available in various configurations, including cubes, double-angle, single-angle, octagon, hexagon and more.

CNC Tape Layer Machines

2007-10-25T01:18:00.000-07:00

The new Charger Series of CNC composite tape layup machines from Cincinnati Machine (Hebron, KY) can lay 3, 6 or 12'' (75, 150 or 300-mm) wide carbon/epoxy tape with any orientation and number of plies, to ensure consistent quality, part shape, thickness, and strength. Parts can be laid up over tool surfaces with contours, flats, and changing geometries.

The new-generation tape head is described by the company as the most productive and consistent on the market at compacting layers of carbon/ epoxy tape. Re-engineered for easier setup and operation to contribute to higher total throughput, the new contour tape head allows faster, simpler side-loading of tape rolls up to 12'' (300-mm) wide and 25.6'' (650 mm) in diam. Common hardware permits lay-up of 6'' (150 mm) and 12'' wide tape with minimal changeover time. The advanced head design also features integrated ultrasonic laminate cutting, cutter depth-setting assistance, and dockable inkjet marking for system flexibility and performance.

Designed for fast, accurate lay-up with high structural stiffness and reliability, new low-rail gantry platforms come in medium and large size ranges to match customer part sizes and floor space. Also available in high-rail gantry platforms, the new tape layers deposit tape at speeds to 2000 ipm (50.8 m/min) while achieving aerospace-grade placement accuracies on very complex contours.
Also made by Cincinnati Machine, the seven-axis Viper Fiber Placement Systems enable up to 32 prepreg tows to be independently dispensed, compacted, cut, clamped, and restarted for uniform, wrinkle-free lay-up of curved, convex, concave or compound-contour surfaces. Programmed cut/clamp/restart creates openings (windows, doors, hatches) and precision edges for near-net-shape capability. This optimizes structural integrity and reduces material waste up to 65% over hand lay-up, and minimizes the need for subsequent machining and hand finishing.

Advanced controls and software, specifically designed by the company for automated composites processing, make it straightforward to program and control multiaxis movements of the systems. Proprietary programming software translates CAD tooling and laminate data into multiaxis machine commands. The software allows offline pan programming and simulation, including collision avoidance to detect and correct for interferences that might otherwise occur between the machine and the lay-up tooling.

CNC milling machine builder scores in China

2007-10-17T02:17:00.000-07:00

Builder of multi-axis and large, long-bed milling/drilling machines, F Zimmermann, is enthusiastic about the results of attending a recent Chinese machine tool show

'CIMT2005 was a sensational success for F Zimmermann,' states Rudolf Gaenzle, President of F Zimmermann in Denkendorf, Germany. He was exceedingly enthusiastic after the most important exhibition for machine tools in China. During the seven days April 11-17. 2005, Zimmermann was able to establish more than 800 contacts and leave an impressive mark by their presence.

'Particularly representatives of the Chinese automotive and aircraft industry appreciate the high quality of Zimmermann machines and our absolute strategic orientation towards our customised solutions,' states Ruediger Schrott, Sales Director for the Chinese market at F Zimmermann.

'Our FZ 37 machine 'made in Germany' was the highlight of the show - not only in the Chinese hall but perhaps even on the whole exhibition,' reports Gaenzle.

This is not only the subjective impression of the president of Zimmermann.

Within the framework of an exhibition documentation a contribution of the Chinese Television was about the High End HSC Portal milling machine FZ 37 of Zimmermann.

The FZ 37 Portal Milling Machine with 42m3 milling volume was one of the biggest exhibits - of course with live cutting performance.

Both, technical specialists from the customer, as well as politicians from high-ranking positions like Mr Jia Quinglin Standing member of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (C.P.P.C.C.) expressed their enthusiasm about the presented technology.

The cooperation with the Chinese machine tool manufacturer DMTG Dalian Machine Tool Group Corp - offers a very good platform for successful activities in the Chinese market.

'A win-win situation is thereby guaranteed, both on the Chinese as well as on the German side'.