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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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TONGTAI IMPROVES SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT OF CNC’S IN MANUFACTURING

By Paul Savides, Managing Director, PBS Machine Tools

Dealing directly with OEMs like Toyota and first-tier suppliers who provide products to Ford, VW etc., we have found the world is changing. A white paper from the World Economic Forum and Kearney illustrates the changing nature of manufacturing, which was evident even before it was exaggerated by the Covid pandemic. This is also the case in South Africa.

Now, Varietal Manufacturing is Upon Us

Mass Customisation has created a problem in traditional production financing models regarding mass production. Consumer demand is causing manufacturers to produce more model variants, and this is greatly affecting economies of scale because they sell less of each model. This is causing numerous OEMs in the automotive industry to begin divestment, particularly due to mass customisation.

The biggest casualty in divestment is the loss of jobs, due to the need for more manufacturing capabilities and agility as they change to smaller batches. However, the benefit is a larger supply chain that must be manned, monitored and controlled.

Our role has evolved to become a Value Integrator

As our strength lies in value integration, PBS Machine Tools acknowledged that we need to align with associates that we could not only collaborate with, but also promote as our trusted partners.

Developing Relationships to Future-Proof production

Tongtai Machine & Tool Co. Ltd is an ideal partner for manufacturers who are interested to future-proof their production and indeed their business. Industrial design emphasizes that future-proof products must have a high durability, which means a good cost performance ratio. This is very true as Tongtai has proved in the South Africa market that:

  • They are a leading provider of integrated solutions
  • They produce machines that bring performance and value to the customer
  • Spares and service requirements for over 1,000 machines is <4% of total turnover

Examples of solutions Tongtai have provided through full turnkey projects in the automotive industry in South Africa include:

  • Hub and shaft
  • Brake disc
  • Brake drum
  • Flywheel
  • Timing chain cover and
  • Rear axle machining lines
  • Cam Cover

In another instance, Tongtai showed their versatility when they were prepared to depart from their core business to meet a customer specific demand , and they provided us with an automated, heavy duty 6M X-Axis horizontal machining cell for use in the railway industry to machine bolsters and side-frames for trains, in one setup.

Future-Proofing your business

The potential to future-proof any business is assured with Tongtai’s methodology and products. A current example of this is the smart manufacturing, High Mix – Low Volume (HMLV) system Tongtai developed for the automotive industry which is flexible and capable of providing a manufacturing solution that allows selective:

  • Customer driven small volumes
  • Large varietal production to meet needs
  • Enabling agile manufacturing and
  • That can easily satisfy mass customisation

Advances such as this, in equipment critical to the manufacturing process, can bring immense value in enhancing the operational efficiency of a company. It also allows a manufacturer to follow the “units of production depreciation” financial model that allows you to determine the value of an asset based on usage and anticipated lifespan.

Capacity Utilization Indicators

Combining this with an OEE model that enhances time utilization, piece performance and piece quality, Tongtai can enhance the future of any business using CNC machines.

This is accomplished with the introduction of Intelligent Manufacturing Solutions including sensors, edge computing, full line management and maintenance systems that are now available if you are a single or multiple machine tool user.

We have the tools and, are just a call away to assist you in future-proofing your company for future generations.

For more information please contact PBS Machine Tools – Tel: 011 914-3360.

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HELICAL MOTION

A typical HELIMILL insert - a helical cutting edge is formed by the intersection between the helical side and the shaped top surfaces of the insert.

 

The introduction of the ISCAR HELIMILL in the 1990s marked a significant milestone in milling tools. It revolutionized the design of milling tools with indexable inserts, establishing a new approach that would shape the industry for years to come. This breakthrough was achieved using a parallelogram-shaped carbide insert, featuring a helical cutting edge formed by the intersection of the insert’s helical side and shaped top surfaces. The HELIMILL concept offers several advantages.

Firstly, the consistency of the rake and relief angles along the insert’s cutting edge, when mounted on a tool, reduces cutting force variations and ensures a smooth cutting action. Secondly, the uniformity of the insert’s cutting wedge enhances its strength. Lastly, the helical cutting edge’s proximity to the imaginary cylinder generated by a rotating tool improves accuracy compared to the straight edge found in previous generation milling inserts. These advancements have elevated milling performance to new heights.

Over the years, continuous improvement has led to significant changes in the classical HELIMILL inserts. The helix of the cutting edge has become more aggressive, and the top surface topology has become more intricate. Combined with advanced carbide grades, these new designs have ushered in a new level of performance. However, the parallelogram insert shape limits the number of indexable cutting edges to two.

To maximize the efficiency of cemented carbides, a new round of insert development was initiated. The successful adaptation of the helical cutting edge to triangular inserts addressed this limitation. The triangular insert concept not only provides three cutting edges but also offers additional benefits. When compared to other shapes with equal cutting-edge length, the triangular shape provides a wider central area. This allows for an increase in the central bore size, enabling the use of a clamping screw with a larger thread. As a result, the insert securing is strengthened, contributing to the overall durability of the milling tool assembly. Additionally, the triangular shape enhances the ramping-down cutting capability.

Overall, the introduction of the ISCAR HELIMILL and its subsequent advancements have revolutionized the milling tool industry. The use of helical cutting edges and triangular inserts has significantly improved performance, accuracy and durability, pushing milling capabilities to new levels.

A HELI-3-MILL face milling tool with triangular inserts – the insert provides already 3 indexable helical cutting edges

A proximate successor to the HELIMILL is the HELI-3-MILL, a family of milling tools introduced by ISCAR in the last decade, featuring triangular indexable inserts. The advantages of the “helical triangle” highlight why this family has gained popularity in the market. However, it is important to note that this does not mean the triangle shape will completely replace the traditional parallelogram contour with helical cutting edges soon. The parallelogram shape still possesses its own competitive edge.

Paradoxically, the narrow width of the parallelogram-shaped insert, which is considered a drawback when compared to the triangular shape, also offers certain advantages. Firstly, a narrower insert allows for an indexable design suitable for smaller tool diameters. Secondly, this insert geometry reduces the depth of the chip gullet, strengthening the cross-section of the tool body. This feature is particularly important for extended flute cutter designs where higher strength and rigidity of the body are crucial. The parallelogram insert structure also permits increased corner radii. Additionally, the classical shape is well-suited for high feed milling (HFM) inserts, which can be mounted in existing pockets, effectively transforming a 90-degree tool into an efficient HFM cutter. Moreover, the “helical parallelogram” has a smaller overall length compared to the “helical triangle” for the same cutting length. Therefore, it would be premature and incorrect to dismiss classical parallelogram inserts.

As a result, the development of 90-degree indexable milling cutters harmoniously combines both approaches, utilizing both triangular and parallelogram-shaped inserts. While the triangular insert concept dominates modern designs, the parallelogram insert principle remains relevant. The HELIMILL platform continues to be updated with new advantageous products. ISCAR’s recently developed products related to milling cutters with parallelogram-shaped inserts demonstrate that the traditional design approach remains effective and capable of meeting the demands of modern manufacturing. Milling high-temperature superalloys and titanium (ISO S group of applications), as well as difficult-to-cut austenitic and duplex stainless steel (ISO M group), present challenges. Effective coolant supply, particularly pinpointed high-pressure cooling (HPC), can significantly reduce heat load on the cutting edge, enhancing lubrication and chip removal.

An exchangeable milling head carrying rectangular-shaped inserts with HPC option -decreasing chip gullet enables increasing tooth density.

This, in turn, leads to higher cutting data and enables larger radial engagements, resulting in a higher metal removal rate (MRR). Moreover, HPC facilitates the production of tighter and curled chips, allowing for tool designs with smaller chip gullets and higher tooth density. Taking these factors into consideration, ISCAR has expanded its HELI2000 family (the latest version of the HELIMILL) by introducing new tools that incorporate the high-pressure cooling (HPC) option within the tool body. The design of these tools has been optimized using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). They are available in both integral-body configuration and as relatively small-sized exchangeable heads with indexable inserts, which are compatible with ISCAR’s modular systems MULTI-MASTER and FLEXFIT.

HELI2000 integrates the HELIMILL and HELIPLUS families, combining their latest developments into a single portfolio. This includes the introduction of two new highly efficient carbide grades: IC5600, designed for machining steel (ISO P group), and IC716, specifically tailored for cutting titanium. Additionally, the insert range has been expanded with new cutting geometries. This includes inserts with a high positive chipformer for milling titanium, chip-splitting cutting edges for productive roughing and other designs. Furthermore, the range now includes inserts with reinforced cutting edges for high feed milling of hard materials up to HRC 60 hardness (ISO H group).

An insert for high feed milling is mounted in the existing pocket of a milling tool.

These new products are also part of ISCAR’s HELIALU family, which consists of milling tools with parallelogram-shaped inserts for machining aluminium alloys (ISO N group). The expansion of this family includes indexable endmill heads with threaded adaptations for both MULTI-MASTER and FLEXFIT systems, providing the option for high-pressure cooling (HPC). The screw-in design configuration of the heads significantly enhances the customization capabilities of HELIALU tools, allowing for a wide range of MULTI-MASTER and FLEXFIT shanks, adaptors, extensions and reducers to be utilized. Therefore, the development of the “helical parallelogram” has not ceased, and the traditional HELIMILL continues to gain momentum. This development follows a gradual upward helix, revisiting past turns but at a more advanced stage, much like in dialectics.

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

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THE NEW MASTER CLASS FOR EVERY SHOP FLOOR

Outstanding milling performance and high rigidity at a competitive price – the new M1 is all about “Designed for Profit!”

Nowadays, the biggest challenge for most of the companies is to constantly reduce production costs in order to stay competitive. DMG MORI has met customer needs and market requirements with the new M1 machine. It fits onto every shop floor in the world, from very small companies or start-ups which need a cost-effective solution, as well as big production plants which are looking for a simple and accurate 3-axis milling machine. The combination of uncompromised DMG MORI quality with an unbeatable price makes the M1 a perfect solution for all 3-axis parts which do not require a machining process on more expensive and more technologically advanced milling centres. That’s what “Designed for Profit” stands for.

Thanks to the unique design, based on a monolithic machine bed and fixed table, the M1 achieves exceptional performance in its class. High static and dynamic rigidity as well as perfect damping properties result in a stable machining process. The new M1 assures high surface quality, increased tool life and all that combined with a highly attractive price. The huge thermal capacity of all components makes the M1 less susceptible to thermal deformation. What is more, the in-line spindle, developed and built by DMG MORI, has already been installed on more than 3,000 machines worldwide.

Fully digitized with IoTconnector as standard

With the new M1, DMG MORI offers its customers an easy-to-operate and user-friendly Control SIEMENS 828D. More importantly, NC programs can be easily and quickly transferred, since Siemens 828D and 840D are fully compatible. Like any other DMG MORI machine, M1 is equipped with an IoTconnector which secures connectivity at customer shop floors as well as access to the digital future. The IoTconnector enables users to benefit from many DMG MORI software and digital solutions like NETservice, Service camera or my DMG MORI customer portal.

The M1 is a perfect solution for all 3 axis workpieces that do not require machining on expensive and technologically advanced machining centres.

Variants of success

DMG MORI meets different equipment requirements with the three perfectly coordinated variants M1 Complete, M1 Plus and M1 Pro. What the equipment versions have in common is simple, fast and smooth commissioning. After delivery, the machine is ready for operation within just one day. The M1 variants can be configured digitally and ordered directly even more quickly and easily. With the intuitive operating concept, the desired machine configuration can be put together with just a few clicks, regardless of time and location. Customers can communicate directly with DMG MORI technology experts at any time during their online session. In addition, the configurator enables holistic combinations from DMG MORI’s technology and solution portfolio. The M1 variants, their additional options and the portfolio of DMG MORI Qualified Products (DMQP) merge into the desired solution in no time at all.

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

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DYNAPATH WINDELTA

CNC Control System for Machine Tool Applications

The WinDelta Control system is a PC-based, fully closed loop CNC control solution featuring advanced motion control, built-in software PLC and a Windows-based HMI. The CNC hardware can be configured for up to 4-axis simultaneous motion control using an analogue voltage command interface or an optional digital interface. The system includes standard built-in motion, PLC and HMI modules, with the capability for custom development.

DynaPath’s specific strengths

DynaPath is a flexible, powerful, yet user friendly control solution at a reasonable price. The control provides solutions for the beginner to the most advanced in one easy to use platform, while remaining versatile for manual, semi-automatic and full production operations. This is all enabled by the intuitive touchscreen user interface, DRO + semi-auto mode operation, conversational editor + CAD edit + import programming capabilities and ability to run any standard G-Code program. Furthermore, the control also applies advanced motion control to execute the programmed tool path quickly and smoothly while accounting for the limits of the machine, a feature only found on high-end controls in the market. DynaPath provides consistency of product function and operation modes coupled with excellent price to feature ratio.

DynaPath controls feature every way of operation on a single platform in a format that is easy to learn and use from simple manual plus operations to doff downloads and offline Fanuc format G-code downloading.

DynaPath offers manual users DRO and semi-automatic operation of the machine via electronic handwheels so the machine can be operated directly without knowing any CNC or programming. Then on the same control DynaPath runs standard G-Code programs and macros that any CAD CAM can post to, so the control is essentially FANUC G-Code compatible. Finally,  Conversational Programming is available on the control that is quick to use and easy to learn with a built-in CAD system that can import and edit DXF files directly via the touchscreen.

DynaPath – Interesting Facts

The history of DynaPath controls began in 1970s with the System 10/20 series, then from 1980s to present the Delta 10/20/30/40/2000 series, then from 2010 to now the WinDelta 600/1000/H/M/T series. To date over 20000 control units were sold and most of these systems are still fully supported from the DynaPath Detroit main office. DynaPath OEM’s have provided a worldwide customer base throughout Europe, United Kingdom and Asia, with a majority of sales in the USA, however, the launch of the WinDelta series has seen more growth recently in Taiwan and China.

Dynapath has provided Mill, Lathe and Punch controls to OEM industry leaders including Tree Machine Tool, Republic Lagun, Chevalier Machinery, Mighty Enterprises, Monarch Cortland, Clausing, Machining Systems, South Bend, & LVD (US, Europe & UK).

Customers in the US include Ford, General Motors, General Electric, Honeywell Inc., Caterpiller Inc., Gradall Inc., Testron, Naval Surface Warfare Center, Lockheed Martin, JPL, USAF, Martin Automatic, Asyst Technologies, Electronic Theatre Controls, Monroe Mold and others.

A customer from Shelter Logic in Illinois says: “Our program time was reduced from 6 hours to 30 min with the new WinDelta DXF feature. This not only reduced programming time but also enabled our machinists to stay focused on the manufacturing process instead of re-entering part program numbers.”

Time savings using DynaPath

In general, programming a conversational program on the control takes less than 10 minutes. If a DXF file of the part is provided, programming takes even less time. If running a G-Code program, due to advanced path planning and smoothing, the cycle times are even quicker on the DynaPath control, often saving 10% to 40% machining time, particularly for programs containing fine contouring operations.

Advantages when investing in a DynaPath

A company representative from DynaPath says: “Strong advantages include features, cost, flexibility and plethora of programming formats plus our response time and availability. We are trying to beat the competition, not join them. So, to achieve this, we must employ a better tool.

“As a controls company offering unique machine tools, DynaPath makes machine tools that are specially integrated with the control in such a way that is feature-rich and oriented for that user segment, compared to other machine tool providers who simply integrate standard controls on standard frames.

“The DynaPath control combines ease of use, manual DRO operation, conversational programming, DXF editing, standard G-Code and macro compatibility, while measuring up extremely well against competitors.  The control offers advanced path planning with look-ahead, feed-forward, smoothing and dynamic roughing or finishing parameters to produce excellent machining quality. Additionally, there is remote assistance and remote diagnostics service built into the control,” he concludes.

DynaPath CNC training

For a novice, basic operation takes at around 1 hour to introduce each operating mode and screen navigation. Intermediate operation takes around 2 hours to set up work offset, tool offset, program a part and to run it. Advanced operation can be open-ended, but with remote training, customers can remote link anytime, while learning what is required from trained technicians and at their own pace. For any operator already familiar with other common CNC’s such as FANUC, the operator can almost seamlessly inter-operate between the two machines with minimal additional training.

For further information, please contact MJH Machine Tools – Tel: (031) 705 7514.

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TAKISAWA MX-800 SERIES

Equipped with twin turrets and twin spindles this is a multi-tasking fully intelligent turning-milling CNC lathe for complex machining.

Opposed left and right spindles and turrets allow independent machining by each spindle/turret system with interchange between the systems to reduce cycle times for highly complex machining, while the compact working area with twin machining stations is designed for flexibility and fast component transfer for highly cost effective machining. Full roller guideways allow higher speeds that shorten cycle times to enhance capability for mass production. Increased distance between linear guideways on each axis improves rigidity and stability for highly accurate machining, while the gantry loading option allows high speed mass production with minimal operator intervention.

 

An option to equip the MX-800 with a gantry loading system and parts conveyor radically shortens component handling times and coupled with the design of the twin turret/twin spindle system for the highest machining speeds, it provides the perfect solution for high-speed mass production.

For more information, contact 600 SA Machine Tools – Cell: 072 157 6003.

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THERMAMAX TITAN ADJUSTABLE SOLAR HELMET FROM UNIQUE WELDING

 

Recently Unique Welding launched the long-awaited Thermamax TITAN Adjustable Solar Helmet. This incredible helmet range comes with a choice between two Auto Darkening Filters (ADF), namely the DIAMOND ADF or the ONYX ADF.

The DIAMOND ADF boasts an unprecedented 2.0 Clear Light State, thanks to its revolutionary TruVision Technology. It has a digital dark state of 5-8 / 9-13, an overall ADF range of 4 – 13 and a 1/1/1/2 classification, ensuring that eyes are protected from all harmful UV and IR emissions. The DIAMOND ADF holds multiple certifications, including ANSI Z97.1-2015, EN 175:1997, CSA Z94.3-2015 and CE EN 379:2009-07.

The Onyx ADF has a 4.0 Clear Light State and a digital dark state of 5-8 / 9-13 with an overall ADF range of 4 – 13 for maximum UV and IR emission protection. The ONYX ADF also has a 1/1/1/2 classification and certifications, such as DIN EN 379:2009-07 and CE EN 379:2009-07. The ONYX ADF has an automatic power-on function thanks to its photosensitive sensor on the filter lens. It is able to sense changes in light and will automatically power on. When it senses an absence of light stimulation, it will automatically power-off after 10 minutes, saving battery life.

While offering a 12-month warranty, the Thermamax TITAN Helmet comes with a superior dual-strap adjustable comfort headgear with torque ratchet and comfort band, as well as a Speedy Loop Hard Hat Adaptor, which allows the attachment of a hard hat to the helmet and wearing both at the same time; this lightweight helmet also offers Grind Mode.

For more information, please contact Unique Welding on 011 841 9800 or email info@uniquewelding.co.za

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MACHINE TOOLS AFRICA HIGHLIGHTS LATEST IT AND SOFTWARE FOR MANUFACTURING MARKET

New technological developments have thrust the local machine tools industry into a novel growth phase. The incorporation of automation and intelligent functions, as well as CNC machines for increased accuracy and efficiency are now common in contemporary manufacturing facilities. In addition, real-time data analysis and monitoring, made possible by the integration of the Internet of Things, help manufacturers optimise production procedures and minimise downtime.

Companies looking to source and incorporate the latest software and technological advancements in automation, programming, simulation and real-time monitoring should take the opportunity to attend the Machine Tools Africa trade exhibition taking place at the Expo Centre,Nasrec, Johannesburg. Leading suppliers will be gathered in one place and experts will be on hand to provide advice for the clients’ unique manufacturing environment.

Stillam CNC Programming will present its renowned Hexagon Manufacturing software lineup, featuring EDGECAM, ALPHACAM, RADAN and DESIGNER. Visitors to the show will be able to see live demonstrations showcasing cutting-edge solutions, offering market-leading CAD/CAM capabilities tailored for the manufacturing industry and ensuring manufacturing efficiency and operational excellence.

MECAD will present the unparalleled potential of Mastercam, a robust CAD/CAM software enabling manufacturers to achieve precision in crafting intricate parts. The company will also showcase SigmaNEST – the fabrication process with world-class nesting capabilities, powerful shop floor control and a flexible data interface for agile production and business oversight.

HMR High Tech Machine Tools will exhibit their range of scanners, including the peel3.CAD – The new generation budget friendly portable handheld professional grade 3D Scanner, the CREAFORM HandySCAN Black – an elite portable handheld metrology grade 3D Laser Scanner with software suitable for reverse engineering, inspection and Non-Destructive Testing and the BANSBACH Easylift Gas Springs.

SIMTEQ Engineering specialises in engineering simulation software and CAE technology, enabling businesses to manufacture smarter. The company’s local team of experts can help engineers and manufacturers to predict, prevent and eliminate production flaws and defects. Manufacturing processes include casting, injection moulding, metal forming, welding, additive manufacturing and even composite curing.

Ikusasa CNC Training Centre is a merSETA accredited training facility that offers CNC, G-Code, CAD/CAM and Microsoft training courses for all skill levels. The company’s CAD/CAM training covers all EDGECAM, ALPHACAM, RADAN and WORKNC modules.

Cadmes, the newly appointed CAMWorks reseller in South Africa, plans to share how their company’s feature-based CNC Programming Software for Machine Tools could reduce machining time by as much as 85% and increase tool life by as much as 500% even in the hardest materials. The Cadmes team will showcase the latest advancements in SOLIDWORKS and CAMWorks and will help visitors experience how their software can address specific manufacturing challenges.

Visitors to the Multitrade Distributors stand at Machine Tools Africa can participate in their Edgecam programming competition for a chance to win exciting prizes. While the competition challenges participants to put forward their best programme, winners will walk away with valuable rewards.

Recognised as the essential machine tools exhibition in Africa, Machine Tools Africa is a showcase of cutting-edge developments across the machine tools and related industries. The expo is designed to highlight the very latest global machine tool technology and to focus on the importance of local suppliers and their international manufacturing partners.

Machine Tools Africa will be taking place at the Expo Centre in Nasrec, Johannesburg, from 21-24 May 2024.

For more information and to register to attend, visit the Machine Tools Africa website www.machinetoolsafrica.co.za

 

 

 

 

 

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