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EFFICIENT LASER CUTTING WITH INTELLIGENCE – THE ALL NEW BYCUT STAR

Featuring ultra-fast speeds and an expanded cutting spectrum, the ByCut Star now cuts with 30 kilowatts of laser power.

Impressive high cutting speed, intelligent cutting process and a new design – this is how the new ByCut Star presents itself. With 30 kilowatts and an optimized cutting process, it now cuts steel, aluminium, stainless steel, brass and copper precisely and reliably for even more quality.

Higher cutting quality and productivity is provided thanks to more laser power and smart features. Bystronic has advanced into a new dimension of fiber laser cutting, the ByCut Star with impressive 30 kilowatts of laser power. The high-end fiber laser stands for high-precision Bystronic technology, a stable cutting process up to the highest laser powers and for a wide range of applications.

However, sheet metal workers not only need a lot of laser power, but also intelligence, reliability and sustainability; this combination makes the laser cutting process really satisfying and successful.

Thus, at Bystronic, customer success is built on a concept of three pillars, namely Power, Intelligence and Cutting Process Improvement, including MixGas technology.

Smart features, such as the “Intelligent Cutting Process (ICP)”, the “Nozzle Control Tool (NCT) with KerfScan” or the “Parameter Wizard” optimize the entire cutting process, while ensuring that it stays on track. Users enjoy optimum capacity utilization and remarkable production uptime.

30 kilowatt of laser power

The technological leap from the previously available 3- to 20-kilowatt levels to the new 30-kilowatt level is considerable and opens new possibilities for Bystronic customers to optimize production and thus remain at the forefront of the ever more fiercely contested competition.

The “Advanced Applications” option enables expanded applications in steel and aluminium of up to 50 millimetres (15 kilowatts laser power and above).

Cutting speeds on the ByCut Star increase twice as fast compared to 15 kW and MixGas with sheet thicknesses between 6 mm and 15 mm, and more than twice as fast with thicknesses starting at 20 mm. Piercing times are shorter for sheet thicknesses of 15 mm and above. Sheet metal processors thus benefit from higher productivity at low unit costs, because with 30 kilowatts, the new ByCut Star cuts steel, aluminium and stainless steel precisely and reliably. The 30-kilowatt laser power enables maximum flexibility for large series and spontaneous customer orders. Whether aluminium or steel, the powerful Bystronic cutting head impresses with maximum precision in thin and thick sheets. In addition, with the “Advanced Applications” option, high laser power (starting from 15 kilowatts) now also enables expanded applications in steel and aluminium of up to 50 millimetres. The new power level is exclusively available on the ByCut Star 4020.

Smart features make the difference

NCT & KerfScan is a smart feature package for oxygen cutting which increases process reliability, even in low-manned operations. This feature offers process monitoring, problem solving and continuation of the cutting process in a fully automatic way.

The “Parameter Wizard” ensures that the correct quality of the cut parts is always selected within minutes. This feature determines the perfect parameters with N2 and MixGas for steel from 4 to 15 mm in thickness.

Intelligent Cutting Process ICP is a new feature, where a coaxial camera is filming through the nozzle and looking directly into the cutting process. This feature currently offers the following functionalities:

  • Cut Quality Detection – The system automatically detects cut interruptions during the cutting process and re-cuts the area where it occurred.
  • Cut Quality Protection – AI-controlled cutting process maintains reliable quality throughout low manned production.
  • Nozzle Loss Detection – Down time and material waste caused by nozzle loss are significantly reduced.

While Bystronic customers benefit from outstanding cutting results with clever features, the new powerful Bystronic flagship is also controlled from a 21.5-inch touchscreen. Handling is as simple as operating a smartphone.

The new ByCut Star’s modern, sharp contours provide a striking appearance and match the performance of the machine.

Significantly increased user-friendliness and outstanding flexibility are major advantages provided by the new ByCut Star. Thus, there is front and/or side access as well as several windows with a view directly to the cutting process. In general, the new design offers better accessibility to the interior, and the machine is easier to place on the store floor thanks to more flexible layout.

Additional accessibility with the all new, sharp designed ByCut Star thanks to several gates.

Fiber laser cutting with mixed gas ensures better cutting quality and higher productivity

In laser cutting, cutting gas (especially N2 and MixGas) is used to keep both the laser and the sheet free of impurities and remove molten material. Nitrogen is used for so-called fusion cutting and oxygen for flame cutting. Gas mixing combines the benefits of O2 and N2 and thus is an alternative to pure nitrogen or oxygen cutting. Cutting with MixGas (a specific blend of Nitrogen/Oxygen) ensures perfect quality on steel at increased cutting speed. This helps even an inadequate steel to achieve a good result after the cutting process.

For in-house gas production with a N2 generator, Bystronic has a solution ready that is attractive from a cost perspective and environmentally friendly. The advantages are obvious: There is no need for transports by trucks when gas is delivered. One produces only as much nitrogen as is needed, and all the previous additional costs are eliminated – from filling the cylinders to replacing them. The sheet metal processor works completely autonomously and – independent from any gas supplier – is doing something for the environment in the process.

For more information please see www.bystronic.co.za or contact Bystronic on 010 410 0200.

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LASER TUBE CUTTING FOR BEGINNERS AND EXPERTS

The TruLaser Tube 3000 fiber is suitable for companies that want to enter this technology and for companies that want to expand their manufacturing capacity.

A TRUMPF machine for getting started with laser tube processing or as an addition to existing machinery – Cost-effective even with low capacity utilization – Easy to operate thanks to numerous automated features

TRUMPF introduced a new laser tube cutting machine, the TruLaser Tube 3000 fiber, a cost-effective choice even at low to medium capacity utilization. It is therefore equally suitable for companies that are entering this technology as it is for companies seeking to expand their production capacity. The machine enables the versatile processing of tubes and profiles and replaces conventional tube processing steps such as sawing, drilling and milling.

Starter kit to enter the world of tube processing

The TruLaser Tube 3000 fiber covers a broad range of applications including profiles, round tubes and flat steel bars. It also offers the option of L and U profiles. The two-kilowatt solid-state laser performs high-speed cutting of mild steel, stainless steel, aluminium and nonferrous metals such as copper and brass. An extensive set of cutting data is already stored on the machine. The TruLaser Tube 3000 fiber can cut tubes with diameters of up to 152 millimetres and profiles with an outer circumference of up to 170 millimetres. The self-centring clamping technology, which is designed to hold the tube in place and position it correctly during machining, adapts automatically to the tube dimensions without requiring manual setup by the operator. The TruLaser Tube 3000 fiber also configures other important settings automatically.

The self-centring clamping system fixes and positions the tube, thus ensuring optimal finished part quality.

The AdjustLine function modifies cutting parameters at the touch of a button to ensure reliable cutting of lower-quality materials. SeamLine Tube detects weld seams and markings on the inner and outer surfaces of the tubes, helping operators check that the tubes are correctly aligned in the machine and that the weld seam is in the desired position in the finished part. With its easy setup and high degree of automation, the TruLaser Tube 3000 fiber is a user-friendly machine that represents a cost-effective option for small batch sizes.

Reliable and precise parts handling

The TruLaser Tube 3000 fiber cuts tubes weighing up to 18.5 kilograms per meter with material thicknesses of up to 8 millimetres. It is available in two lengths that accommodate either 6.5 or 8 meters of material. Thanks to the optional LoadMaster Tube automated loading system, the machine is also a cost-effective choice for high-volume production runs.

Thanks to the LoadMaster Tube loading automation, the machine can profitably perform large-scale production as well.

An integrated materials store known as the “bundle space” provides a buffer store that can hold up to 4 metric tons of raw material, or up to 5 tons with the machine version designed for an 8-meter loading length. The LoadMaster Tube system separates and measures the tubes parallel to production and transfers them to the machine. To ensure top-quality parts, step rollers support the tubes and guide them to the machining station.

Step rollers support and guide the tubes to the processing station. They can be manually adapted to the respective tube diameter in no time.

These rollers can be adjusted to the current tube diameter in one simple action. The machine also features guide rollers on the unloading side which provide more support to long tubes during processing. The TruLaser Tube 3000 fiber ejects finished parts onto a rack. Set to the correct ergonomic height, this allows the operator to remove them comfortably while the machine continues working. Shorter parts can be ejected straight into a box. The TruLaser Tube 3000 fiber automatically separates cutting slugs and scrap metal from the finished parts and disposes of them in containers.

Key components easy to access at any time

Thanks to the design of the machine’s beam guard, the operator can easily access the loading and unloading sides of the machine at any time – for example to load individual tubes into the machine to process a smaller job between bigger ones. There is no need for a complete housing. A large, laser-safe viewing window makes it easy to keep an eye on the machining process.

Ready for the smart factory

Users can make changes to the machine’s production schedule or keep an eye on the machine using an app, making it even easier for the operator to keep track of the entire machining process in the TruLaser Tube 3000 fiber. A secure, OPC UA-based data interface is included to connect the machine to an ERP or MES system or to a cloud application, for example. TRUMPF machine apps provide information on program runtimes and machine capacity utilization.

For further information, please contact RETECON – Tel: (011) 976 8600.

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WIN-SFEED MACHINES FOR IMPROVED BOTTOM LINE

Paying attention to what economists say about the nation’s manufacturing patterns is like riding a rollercoaster, it rises and falls dramatically at different times.

No matter what economists say, the reality of the cost of manufacturing is felt in the shop, and that is where TaeguTec comes in with cutting tools that increase productivity and cut costs, both important factors to help with the bottom line.

The premium next-generation WIN-SFEED line of cutting tools, the metalworking giant’s newest machining marvels, are fast, accurate, productive and profitable in order to offer end users a competitive edge.

For turning operations, the WIN-TURN`s 6-corner negative TNMV inserts and holders provide high productivity and multidirectional turning without replacing the holder.

The outstanding high feed feature is due to the small entering angle that enables higher productivity for both longitudinal turning and facing in the backward direction with one tool. Using the same T-HOLDER design, this user-friendly holder has a strong clamping force.

In the parting and grooving family, TaeguTec offers the WIN-CUT and CUT-SFEED lines, which are designed as a thicker height insert that includes a specialized three-area contact with a bottom-stopper that is more robust and stable than the conventional self-grip type.

This amazing addition to the line enables improved surface roughness, insert position repeatability and tool life even under tough machining conditions.

The holders are available in three types, such as a square shank type (SFER/L), a blade type (SFGB) and a reinforced triangular blade type (SFTB). In particular, the triangular blade type (SFTB) and dedicated holder (THTBR/L-TB) products enable very stable machining in parting and deep grooving applications.

In either high feed or interrupted cutting conditions, WIN-CUT ensures an excellent surface finish with minimal vibration.

In addition, the holder and blades include internal through-coolant channels directed to the insert’s cutting edge, significantly increasing productivity and tool life.

Milling operations have a slew of incredible options that cater to specific machining parameters as well as general production.

The WIN-MILL line, including CVKT inserts and holders, are small-size end mills optimized for the miniature industry.

Featuring indexable inserts with Ø8 mm and two-effective teeth end mills, the WIN-MILL line is an excellent choice for cost reduction.

The increased number of teeth means it is a high-productivity solution that replaces carbide end mill machining.

Further, WIN-MILL end mills can be applied to various milling applications as the inserts are available in shoulder milling and high feed machining types. The contact between the V-bottom insert and the cutter pocket maximizes clamping stability for both high feed and ramping machining, enabling excellent performance in multiple applications.

Catering to diverse applications, TaeguTec’s premium WIN-MILL line also features AVKT inserts and dedicated holders, which enhance productivity in the single-sided, two-corner shoulder milling insert market.

The insert includes a V-shape bottom contact for stronger and more stable clamping, providing excellent machining performance even in both ramping and step-down machining. In addition, the AVKT insert includes a higher ramping angle over similar inserts to provide higher productivity.

WIN-SFEED’s CHASE-8-MILL line, with its double-sided inserts, performs true 90-degree machining. Its high axial geometry reduces cutting loads and vibration yet achieves high productivity.

The line’s optimized design enables minimal mismatch during 90-degree deep shoulder milling, and the flat-bottom wiper insert improves surface roughness. CHASE-8-MILL’s variety of inserts and cutters for end mills, modular types and face mills enables excellent performance on a variety of applications.

Building on the success of previous series, TaeguTec offers the powerful premium high feed milling solution WIN-4-FEED with BLMV inserts and dedicated cutters.

The BLMV line’s V-shaped contact face, which prevents insert rotation during ramping and plunging operations, contributes to its steady machining performance and increased productivity. These features not only ensure a high ramping angle but also enable deeper step-down machining, boost productivity, and provide a range of machining entry operations.

Next is the MAXI-RUSH, with its innovative head-indexable feature and overall outstanding advantages. The technologically advanced end mill line replaces most of the existing conventional solid carbide end mills in its class.

The quick and easy replacement of the line’s heads, coupled with its excellent accuracy and optimized grades, make it a superior performer that increases productivity on a variety of applications and a superb choice for today’s machining needs.

To combine the widest flexibility in tooling solutions, MAXI-RUSH is offered in many head types as well as various shank holder lengths.

For more information please contact TaeguTec – Tel: 011 362-1500.

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RGC REMAINS DEDICATED TO ADVANCING THE QUALITY STANDARDS OF PRODUCTION IN SOUTH AFRICA

 

Article supplied by RGC Engineering

RGC Engineering has been a beacon of innovation in providing quality solutions and equipment for Dimensional and Non-destructive testing and Tooling for the South African manufacturing engineering landscape since its inception in 1960.

Originally established as a precision engineering manufacturing company, RGC Engineering has evolved into a leading Precision Metrology and Inspection Equipment provider.

Over the decades, we have not only grown but also solidified our position in the industry through strategic partnerships with industry giants such as Mitutoyo, Marposs and GOM, now Zeiss GOM Metrology. These partnerships are a testament to our unwavering commitment to our core values: Quality, Precision, Efficiency, Service and Expertise, and they have significantly contributed to our ability to provide top-notch solutions and equipment.

Our mission is not just about providing quality solutions for the manufacturing sectors in South Africa. It’s about empowering our workforce through education and training, both for our personnel and customers, on the use of advanced inspection systems. At RGC Engineering, we believe that investing in the best and most efficient technology is not enough. We also invest in our people, because we know that they are the key to achieving our goals and maintaining our commitment to excellence.

Zeiss GOM Metrology – ScanBox 5130: Revolutionizing Automated Inspection

The ScanBox 5130 is a game-changer in automated inspection and digitization. Designed to handle complex parts such as hang-on parts, assemblies, and airfoils, the ScanBox 5130 stands out as an all-in-one solution. It optimizes series inspection and provides full-field measuring results for CAD comparison in record time. This capability is crucial for visualizing deviations from GD&T standards accelerating production, maintenance and repair processes.

One of the standout features of the ScanBox 5130 is its ability to operate autonomously. This feature significantly increases machine utilization, reduces measuring cycles and allows our clients to obtain quicker and better results, allowing them to deploy their staff more efficiently. The ScanBox 5130 is not just a tool but a vital component that enhances productivity and ensures precision in every measurement.

GOM Scan 1: Compact Precision with Advanced Technology

The GOM Scan 1 from Zeiss GOM Metrology is a testament to how advanced technology can be packaged into a compact and robust design. Featuring Blue Light Technology and the stereo camera principle, the GOM Scan 1 delivers exact 3D data, making it indispensable for quality control.

The lightweight solution allows you to capture 3D data intuitively. Easy to operate, GOM Scan 1 is the specialist for simple and fast measurements of small to medium-sized parts – even in confined spaces. This synergy ensures that quality control is not only precise but also efficient. The GOM Scan 1’s advanced capabilities and user-friendly design make it a perfect fit for R&D, enabling reverse engineering of parts with remarkable accuracy.

Mitutoyo Solutions: LH600F, MiSTAR 555, and Measurlink Software

Mitutoyo LH600F: The LH600F height gauge is an advanced tool offering easy operation through a keypad and touchscreen navigation, making it suitable even for beginners. It boasts a best-in-class accuracy of ± (1.1+0.6L/600) μm. The LH600F is used for various measurements, including 2D and perpendicularity measurements, with enhanced data output functions that simplify measurement data management. The contextual guidance on the large-screen touch panel supports operators, ensuring they understand each step in the measurement sequence, making it easy to obtain accurate and repeatable measurements.

Mitutoyo MiSTAR 555: The MiSTAR 555 is a cornerstone of our precision inspection capabilities. Known as the shop-floor CMM, it can be used next to or even on the production line. The MiSTAR 555 combines inline and near-line precision measurements with easy usability, unprecedented versatility, and a space-saving design. Its three-sided open architecture simplifies moving workpieces on and off the measuring table, reducing operator workload and enhancing efficiency.

Mitutoyo Measurlink Software: Coupled with Measurlink software from Mitutoyo, we have transformed our data management and analysis processes. Measurlink supports real-time data collection with live SPC charts to alert operators and additional analysis tools and reports for quality control and operations. Its customizable interface allows for the addition of photos and videos, guiding operators on specific measurements. Designed with Industry 4.0 and Smart Factory in mind, Measurlink provides the scalability and interoperability needed in today’s factories.

Marposs Inline Inspection Equipment: Ensuring Real-Time Quality Control

At RGC Engineering, real-time quality control is paramount, and Marposs’ inline inspection equipment plays a critical role in achieving this. Marposs offers various inspection equipment for industrial inline, next-to-line, or during-production analysis. Currently, the M1 Star gauges are the most used equipment for internal bore diameter measurement. Coupled with the Merlin gauge computer, measurements can be seen directly, and the part can be evaluated and processed on the spot.

The Marposs M1 Star gauges, with the Merlin gauge computers, are widely used in the automotive industry to measure the finest tolerance bore diameters. These probes provide real-time dimensional feedback while simultaneously machining the part. The probes also enable parts to be marked correct or incorrect on the spot before they move to the next production stage.

Integration and Future Vision

Each piece of equipment has its own role in inspection, but when combined, they enable a comprehensive overview of the production process from start to finish. At RGC Engineering, we strive to help customers achieve the best quality end products by training their operators or inspectors on using the instruments or helping them set up a metrology inspection area. Our new building renovations include a state-of-the-art metrology, training, and inspection area, complete with the ScanBox 5130, Mitutoyo Crysta Apex models, and the Mitutoyo MiSTAR 555, alongside all Zeiss GOM scanning systems and Marposs gauges.

RGC Engineering is not just about providing cutting-edge equipment and solutions. We are also about building a brighter future for the industry. That’s why we are in the process of establishing a training institute where Inspection Instrument Operators and Metrologists can enrol in training to use their tools and understand their measurements thoroughly. This initiative is a clear demonstration of our commitment to improving workforce skills and maintaining high-quality standards in production, and we are confident that it will contribute significantly to the industry’s growth and development.

In conclusion, RGC Engineering remains dedicated to advancing the quality standards of production in South Africa. Through our strategic partnerships and unwavering commitment to innovation, we are excited to continue leading the way in precision engineering and inspection.

For more information, please contact RGC Engineering – Tel: 011 887-0800.

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NEXT GENERATION SHOULDER AND HIGH FEED MILLING LINE

TaeguTec recently launched the CVKT line of inserts and cutters, in the Ø6-20 mm diameter range for miniature machining.

The WIN-MILL line, including CVKT inserts and holders, are small-size end mills optimized for the miniature industry. Featuring indexable inserts with Ø8 mm, 2 effective teeth end mills, the WIN-MILL line is an excellent choice for cost reduction. The increased number of teeth means it is a high productivity solution that replaces carbide end mill machining.

Further, WIN-MILL end mills can be applied to various milling applications as the inserts are available in shoulder milling and high feed machining types. The contact between the V bottom insert and the cutter pocket maximizes clamping stability for both, high feed and ramping machining, enabling excellent performance in multiple applications.

For more information please contact TaeguTec – Tel: 011 362-1500.

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Xill·tec® – POWERFUL MILLING IN A PLUG & PLAY SOLUTION

Walter rounds off its range of solid carbide universal milling cutters

With the Xill·tec® MC230 and MC233 Advance milling cutters, Walter already introduced two ranges of solid carbide milling cutters that are powerful and can be used universally – for all ISO materials from groups P, M, K, N and S, as well as for all standard roughing and finishing applications and milling strategies. As part of a second launch stage, the tool manufacturer is now rounding off its range with Xill·tec® two-edge and eight-edge milling cutters, offering diameters of between 2 mm and 25 mm and cutting lengths from 1 to 5 × Dc. With these long cutting lengths, Walter is embracing the trend for dynamic milling as a standard application in the universal range. One of its major advantages is that the entire tool length can be used with accordingly high material removal rates. There are also various geometries, each developed for a particular application, material or machining strategy.

The Xill·tec® MC230 Advance basic range also sees the addition of new Xill·tec® milling cutters from the MC233 Advance range. These are designed with chip breakers and are therefore suitable for high chip volumes, for example for dynamic roughing. In other words, they are suitable for applications where the chips need to be kept short, despite using long cutting edges and safely carried away. When compared with their market competitors, both milling cutters have a tool life that is around 30% longer when used at the same cutting speed and with the same material. This is thanks to geometries whose variable helices are coordinated with the number of teeth and cutting edge length, combined with the new tough WK40TF universal grade with TiAlN coating. The latter was developed and manufactured by Walter in-house for Xill·tec® solid carbide milling tools.

For more information, please contact Spectra Carbide Tooling Technology – Tel: 021 555 4144.

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LOGIQ-8-TANG NEW 90° CUTTERS CARRYING TANGENTIALLY CLAMPED INSERTS WITH 8 CUTTING EDGES

ISCAR recently introduced new cutters that carry tangentially clamped inserts with 8 right-hand cutting edges, intended for face and shoulder milling. They are suitable for a wide range of workpiece materials including different types of steel, stainless steel and cast iron and are designed for roughing and finishing operations in the automotive, die and mould industries and for general engineering.

The T890HT cutters feature 90° cutting edge angle and a rigid dovetail clamping configuration. Coolant channels are directed to each cutting edge, while polished coating of the cutter body facilitates chip flow and protects against corrosion and wear.

The tools include T890HT ELN endmills in 32 and 40 mm diameters with cylindrical and Weldon shanks and T890HT FLN Face mills in 40, 50, 63, 80, 100 and 125 mm diameters with coarse and fine pitch. The endmills and face mills are for machining square shoulders, slots and face milling.

The following inserts are produced from ISCAR’s latest SUMO TEC carbide grades, which significantly increase productivity:

  • T890 LNHT 1306PNTR, a four-sided tangentially clamped insert for general use, featuring 8 right-hand cutting edges, 0.8 mm corner radii and a 9.5 mm maximum depth of cut.
  • T890 LNAT 1306PN-W, a wiper insert with 4 cutting edges for finishing operations, 0.6 mm x 45 deg. chamfer and a wiper for high surface quality.

For more information, please contact ISCAR South Africa (PTY) LTD – Tel: 011 997-2700.

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CHIPLESS THREAD MANUFACTURING IN WROUGHT ALUMINIUM AND CAST ALUMINIUM ALLOYS

REIME NORIS expands its product portfolio for wrought aluminium and cast aluminium alloys with two newly developed cold forming taps.

Both tool types, like all taps of the “NEO” series, are made of HSSE-PM substrate. However, they differ in geometry and coating in order to achieve outstanding results in the respective field of application.

NORIS SPANLOS NEO AL

The NORIS SPANLOS NEO AL cold forming tap has been developed especially for the machining of wrought aluminium alloys. The geometry with an asymmetrical pressure point shape acts in the forming direction through a relatively steep stroke with very low torque. The stroke on the back is much flatter and thus has a supporting effect. This combination results in an enormous increase in tool life. A DLC (diamond like carbon) coating reliably protects against cold press welds, which are found frequently in these materials.

NORIS SPANLOS NEO GAL

The NORIS SPANLOS NEO GAL cold forming tap has been developed especially for thread forming in cast aluminium alloys. The geometry has a steeply pronounced symmetrical stroke both in the forming direction and at the back. The special feature is a sliding surface in-between, which offers targeted resistance to the particularly high abrasiveness of these cast materials. A multi-layer TICN coating, which has proven particularly effective in cases of abrasive wear, functions as a coating here.

In the standard product portfolio, the metric dimensions common for these materials, up to and including M10, are available, from M4 also with coolant hole. As in the entire range of NORIS SPANLOS tools, these two new types are also available from stock only with lubrication grooves.

For more information, please contact Duncan MacDonald – Tel: 011 444 4345

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HIGH PRODUCTIVITY VERTICAL MACHINING CENTERS – DNM SERIES

New DNM series VMC

With a global installed base in excess of 30000 machines, the DNM series is a popular and proven mainstay in DN SOLUTIONS’s product line. With a range of different models, sizes and capacities, there is definitely a DNM machine to meet customers’ needs.

Featuring the largest machining area in its class the new DNM series vertical machining center offers increased Y-axis travel and a higher table load. The direct-coupled spindle for higher productivity improves the machines’ performance and environmental-friendliness, while higher productivity is achieved by reducing the tool change time and improving all axes feed rates plus acceleration/deceleration times.

DNM series VMC with the largest machining area in its class.

This environmental-friendly machine is designed for stable and easy operation with the EOP function that can be accessed via the pop-up window on the NC main screen. Grease lubrication for axis roller guideways is supplied as standard.

For more information, please contact PUMA MACHINE TOOLS – Tel: (011) 976 8600.

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HURCO MACHINING CENTRES AT MACH 2024

Regarding Hurco Europe’s prismatic machining equipment at MACH 2024, the accent was on 5-axis machining as well as automation of both 3-axis and 5-axis vertical machining centres (VMCs). There was a Hurco ProCobot Profeeder assisting the production of parts on a VM20i 3-axis VMC and an Erowa Robot Compact 80 feeding a trunnion-type 5-axis model, the VMX30Ui.

The ProCobot picks and places components and removes them after machining, with the app running directly in the Max 5 control and visible on the screen. Minimal information needs to be entered to set a job, so changeover time can be as rapid as 30 minutes, making plug-and-play, small-batch automation a reality. The Erowa cell, on the other hand, transfers the workholding as well as the part on a pallet. The choice of system depends on the application. Both solutions lend themselves well to Hurco’s typical customers, which tend to undertake small to medium batch runs.

Hurco SRTi 5-axis VMCs are popular because they have a swivelling spindle head and flush rotary table, a configuration that can be used as a 5-axis production centre or a 3-axis machine that exploits the full working volume. A VMX42SRTi with 1,067 x 610 x 610 mm travels represented this range at the show. It has directly-encoded torque motors driving both the B-axis spindle and C-axis table. Linear scales and 20-bar coolant through the spindle are standard features.

Another Hurco 5-axis machining centre at the exhibition was the cantilever-type VC500i. Ergonomically designed for easy operator access, it has a 520 x 450 x 400 mm working volume and a ± 100-degree swivelling trunnion carrying a rotary table, ideal for machining five faces of a component in a single set-up. As with any 5-axis centre, it drastically reduces the number of separate operations needed to completely machine a part compared with using a 3-axis machine.

A VMX60Ti 3-axis VMC equipped with a rotary-tilt table demonstrated the versatility of this alternative 5-axis machining arrangement, particularly for prismatic machining of shaft-type components. Capital cost can be saved, as a smaller capacity machine can often be selected compared with if a dedicated 5-axis machining centre were to be used.

In addition to the popular 3-axis VM10i, which combines a small footprint with the capacity (660 x 406 x 508 mm) and performance (11 kW / 12,000 rpm) of a big 3-axis machining centre, there was a VM ONE 3-axis VMC with a smaller Z-axis travel of 356 mm. It addresses a need, especially among subcontractors, for an entry-level machine that is super-compact, yet still capable of producing prismatic parts weighing up to 1,500 kg.

Powered by proprietary WinMax software, the Max5 control includes a solid model import option that allows 3+2 routines to be programmed on the shop floor from an IGES CAD model imported as a .STP file. It is fast, uncomplicated and takes the load off manufacturer’s CAM stations.

The CNC system supports both conversational programming via a colour LCD touch-screen and/or input of NC code generated off-line, with merging of the two sets of data achieved via an NC Merge function.

For more information, please contact TH Machine Tools – Tel: 012 259 1375.

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