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CNC TECHNOLOGY REQUIRES DIGITIZED TOOLS

Rows of CNC machine tools sharing their workspace with industrial robots that transport machined parts, accompanied by a minimal number of machine operators, are already a common scenario that depicts modern metalworking plants and shops. CNC machines are the catalyst which created progressive computer data engineering to enable this new reality. Advanced multi-axis machines facilitate the production of very complicated shapes with minimal setups. Advanced milling and turning capabilities, coupled in multitasking machines, open new opportunities for effective process planning. Innovative CNC metal cutting systems are on the verge of a one-set full part production – the ultimate dream of every manufacturer. A quantum leap in CNC technology enables the practical understanding of machining methods that have been theoretical for a long time, such as power skiving. The progress in the world of computerized numerical control is impressive. It has impacted related spheres such as work and tool holding, and the diverse world of cutting tools.

So, what are the expectations of the machine tool producers from the cutting tool producers? What are the requirements that modern cutting tools must meet? How should tool manufacturers be driven when planning their production program for the near future? The answer is simple…The next generation of tools must be better, which means cut faster, provide higher tool life, ensure better surface finish and more. These are obvious and undoubted demands which every tool manufacturer needs to contend with to assure its future. However, the progress in CNC technology has highlighted one more feature in tool design being the digital component. This virtual element has turned into an integral part of a tomorrow’s cutting tool.

The contemporary evolution of smart manufacturing is based on network technologies. In a smart factory, CNC machines perform under the conditions of real-time and combine mutual information exchange from an environmental context that blends both real and virtual worlds. The systems interact with the context via the Internet of Things referred to as IOT. For example, the real world shows the position of a cutting tool and acting cutting forces, while the virtual world specifies 3D tool paths during an operation combined with predetermined machine stock allowance. Subsequently, the real and virtual worlds find themselves in a cutting tool where they naturally complement each other.

A digital tool component possesses vast information or data. Its elements are comprised of 3D and 2D models, estimated tool life, accumulated cutting time, possible limitations such as maximum rotational speed, optimal machining data and additional essential information. Tomorrow the gate of a smart factory will be closed for tools without such components, consequently cutting tool manufacturers have started to prepare and adapt for changes. The virtual element is now focusing on the development of new tools and tooling solutions.

For centuries, technical drawings were considered a common language for defining tool features. Computer aided engineering (CAE) and CNC systems require another means for data exchange. Cooperative efforts of world specialists from various engineering and scientific fields have resulted in the creation of the ISO 13399 standard, which specifies computer representations of information related to cutting tools, their holder which makes the lexicon base of the language. Adherence to this standard means that the tool digital component’s platform remains independent, and computerized systems can utilize the data seamlessly. This new standard is only the first sign. The smart factory will require additional smarter manufacturing systems and smarter tools for these systems. Information about tool properties, such as the remainder of its tool life period, specific tool identification, service limitations, necessitates uniform rules for specifying the information and its computer representation – like the ISO 13399 standard, yet much more comprehensive. These will require the intensive cooperation of companies and governmental institutions.

Today, a cutting tool customer expects to receive not only a tool as the physical product, but also quick access to  accompanying information such as virtual assembly options for collision checks, finding the optimal tool configuration, clear machining data, and learning how changing cutting parameters will reflect on tool life. This has already formed the virtual tool component, and its significance will only grow.

ISCAR is aware of the key importance of tool digital elements. The new company’s developments relate to both cutting tools and the tool informational essentials, including tool assembly options in 3D and 2D formats in ISCAR’s electronic catalogue, NEO-ITA, the ISCAR digital tool adviser, on-line engineering calculations and MATRIX, the automated tool dispenser that is an integral part on the shop-floors of a smart factory. These are just a few examples of the tool virtual environment.

From technologists working on process planning, engineers designing tool assemblies or preparing the tooling part of a complex key project, CNC programmers checking a tool path in a CAD/CAM environment, to application specialists optimizing machining operations, and even sales managers assisting in selecting a more effective tool – all might spend hours adopting the tool manufacturers’ tool data to integrate with the customer’s software. ISCAR’s electronic catalogue provides a digital twin representation of the tool assembly based on the ISO 13399 standard. This guarantees the successful communication between current and future software support in a digitized smart factory. The virtual assembly ensures fast, reliable simulation of the operation as well as collision (interference) by checking and tool path optimization and the design of workholding fixtures. As the selected machining method affects the forces acting on workpieces, and a tool configuration influences the shape of workholding elements, simulating the operation by use of the tool assembly model may be also considered an effective instrument for jig and fixture design. In addition to milling, drilling, and threading virtual tool assembly options, ISCAR has recently introduced the turning tool assembly function which expands the range of its electronic catalogue’s digital services.

The ISCAR tool adviser which assists users in selecting the right tool is now reborn under the brand name NEO-ITA which features advanced analytics based on artificial intelligence and a big-data platform. The upgraded adviser version utilizes new capabilities such as new machine brands, material libraries, integrated machining calculations, and the ability to export p21-files as an integral part of tool recommendations.

One more useful digital assistant is the 4 PRO‎ – an online product information -and machining recommendation tool which enables tool and insert information at your fingertips. 4PRO scans the 2D data matrix barcode on an ISCAR tool or insert packaging label while assuring access to the necessary data on a CNC shop floor. Diverse 4PRO options provide product geometrical information presented in accordance with the ISO 13399 standard, and tie together inserts and tools to match up with recommended cutting speeds and feeds. 4PRO also bonds the insert geometry and its coating to the correct type of metal, allowing better choices at the planning stages of a given process.

Intelligent CNC machines, network technologies, information real-time exchange and virtual twins of physical objects are the necessary bricks for building manufacturing in the era of INDUSTRY 4.0. Digitizing cutting tools will ensure that tools will be used in smart factory environments.

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

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EUROPEAN PREMIERE FOR FANUC’S NEW INJECTION MOULDING MACHINE

Considered the most important trade show for the plastics processing industry, FAKUMA 2021 (Friedrichshafen, Germany, 12-16 October) is the ideal platform for presenting FANUC’s new ROBOSHOT α-SiB injection moulding machine (Hall 3, Stand B3-3211). The new machine operates at higher injection speeds, and is faster and more flexible than previous-generation ROBOSHOT models. For tool and mould makers, the trade fair premiere of the new ROBOCUT α-CiC wire-cut EDM machine will be the highlight.

An important advantage of FANUC’s all-electric injection moulding machines is their typically low energy consumption, which is especially attractive for companies that want to improve their carbon balance. The new ROBOSHOT series starts with a total of five machine sizes between 50 and 220 tonnes clamping force, and different injection capacities. These machine sizes will appeal to mould makers and high-precision plastic parts manufacturers in all industries, including medical technology and automotive engineering. FANUC will expand the range of the new ROBOSHOT α-SiB series further to give a total machine range covering 15 to 450 tonnes clamp forces.

The new, all-electric ROBOSHOT injection moulding machines demonstrate particular improvements in terms flexibility, speed and connectivity. Among the many highlights of α-SiB machines is a multi-functional 21.5″ HD FANUC PANEL iH Pro display, which users can operate either traditionally with buttons, or like a smartphone via touchscreen and swipe functions. In addition, users will benefit from advanced software functionality as standard.

The precise, repeatable and reliable FANUC ROBOSHOT α-SiB offers multiple screw diameters, new injection unit sizes and higher injection pressures as standard, depending on the size. There is also the option of four-axis servo core control.

Wired for precision

Another FANUC highlight at FAKUMA 2021 will be the new ROBOCUT α-CiC wire EDM machine for all mould and tool-making requirements. The revised design of the ROBOCUT α-CiC means that the machines have a significantly stiffer structure than before. For the operator, this extra rigidity pays off in higher cutting accuracy and better repeatability.

Other improvements include a new function that compensates for table movement errors. At FAKUMA, a ROBOCUT α-C400iC will simulate the cutting of mould inserts.

Connectivity made easy

FANUC’s FAKUMA presentation will focus on “solutions” rather than just products – all based on the overarching idea of ONE FANUC, a unique technology concept for complete automation with CNC machine tools, robots and software.

A number of FANUC exhibits at FAKUMA will highlight this approach, including a ROBOSHOT α-S150iB application featuring a second, vertical injection unit (SI20iA), and a handling cell with an LRMate robot that demonstrates how easily FANUC machines and robots can be connected via the company’s QSSR (Quick & Simple Start-up of Robotization) concept. In another cell, FANUC will give a live demonstration of the all-electric α-S150iB in an LSR (Liquid Silicone Rubber) version, automated with an M-20iD robot.

The Industrial IoT section of the FANUC stand will demonstrate product connectivity using the company’s ROBOSHOT LINKi2 software, the latest version of which will receive its official launch at FAKUMA. Aside from providing complete monitoring of the moulding process, RS-LINKi2 can schedule upcoming jobs, analyse and evaluate historical data to help drive improvements, create customised reports, and issue downtime notification emails. In addition, machine learning functionality estimates the amount of machine wear, helping users to take advantage of predictive/preventative maintenance strategies.

For more information, please contact FANUC South Africa – Tel: 011 392-3610.

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TONGTAI TMS SERIES FROM PBS MACHINE TOOLS

In January 2019 Tongtai turned 50 years old and with that comes a push towards the future. Tongtai has released several new machines in the last two years including VMCs with turning functionality (VMT-200), 5 Axis VMCs with additive hybrid technology (AMH-350) as well as Ultra-sonic machining solutions (VU-5).

Tongtai always has and will continue to provide the best productivity vs cost ratio solutions to its customers. With the ability to supply single function CNCs all the way through to mass production turnkey systems, Tongtai is the ideal partner for any manufacturing organization.

With this is mind and following requests from customers, the decision was made to introduce a B-axis head multi-tasking CNC lathe.

When comparing to competitors, Tongtai has focused on overall larger diameters with longer length capacities.

Tongtai TMS Series mill/turn machines are available in 4 different models, each with 3 different configurations with up to 9 axes. The standard TMS machine has a main spindle with programmable tailstock, while the TMS-S has a sub-spindle in place of the tailstock, and the TMS-ST features both a sub-spindle and a lower turning turret. Maximum turning diameter is 660mm with bed lengths up to 2000mm.

The TMS Series consists of the TMS-2000 (8″ chuck, 51″ bar), TMS-2500 (10″ chuck, 76″ bar capacity), TMS-3000 (12″ chuck, 76″ bar capacity) and TMS-3800 (15″ chuck, 89″ bar capacity).

 

With such a large working envelope and machine options, the target workpieces and industries include aerospace, prototyping, medical, automotive, tooling and medium to mass production.

TMS Series machines feature a one piece 75° mono-block slant bed that permits free flow of chips as well as easy access to the spindles and cutting tools. A true linear (perpendicular) Y-axis simplifies programming. Roller-type linear guideways in all axes and large-diameter pre-tensioned ballscrews provide precise position accuracy. The machines are made of Meehanite cast iron for rigidity and vibration dampening.

Both main and sub-spindles feature dual-wound built-in motors with electronic high/low gears. Both spindles have a full Cs axis (0.001°) with braking system. Three-piece Hirth couplings rigidly lock the spindles in place in 1˚ increments for heavy milling and high accuracy. Spindle power ranges from 26kW on the TMS-2000

to 60kW on the TMS-3800. Both main and sub-spindles are liquid cooled for thermal stability.

The B-axis milling spindle has a zero-backlash roller gear drive with highspeed rotation of 33.3 rpm and ±120˚ of movement from the vertical position. It features a rigid 3-piece coupling to lock the spindle in place for heavy turning and can be indexed in 15° increments.

The integral spindle milling motor delivers 22kW and 12,000 rpm and a 40 station with 80 optional arm type tool changer is standard, while an optional 10 station lower turret provides turning capability to both spindle as well as pinch turning ability with the B-axis. The automatic tool changer is available in either HSK-63T or Sandvik Capto C-6 tooling systems. These options mean the machine is especially suitable for small-volume, large-variety production.

The extended Y-axis stroke of ±125mm promotes less dependence on C-axis which results in shorter cycle times.

The standard Fanuc 31iT-B provides two-path control for simultaneous turning operations as well as 4+1 milling ability. The optional 31iT-B5 or Siemens 840D enables 5-axis simultaneous milling.

The benefits of multi-tasking machining are proven time and again. However, incorporating single clamping, easy tool set up and interchange ability means that machines become even more productive, while increasing efficiency leads to a better cost per piece for the user.

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

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BYCUT SMART 6225 – HIGH PRODUCTIVITY AND PERFORMANCE AT A FAVOURABLE PRICE

The ByCut Smart 6225 up to 10 kilowatts of laser power from Bystronic optimizes sheet metal utilization thanks to the 6225 format and the optional BeamShaper – all at a favourable price.

More sheet metal, more parts, more variety. Large-format laser cutting systems enable you to stand out against competitors without huge financial expenditures. This is why we are expanding the ByCut Smart product line with the 6225 format in a new design. The machine can be equipped with the Fiber 3000, 4000, 6000, 8000, or 10000 laser sources, depending on the user’s requirements.

Less waste thanks to intelligent nesting

Thanks to the new large format, you can process metal sheets on the ByCut Smart with a length of up to 6.2 meters and a width of 2.5 meters. On the one hand, this increases the machine’s productivity, because large metal sheets allow the cut parts to be nested more efficiently. On the other hand, this also significantly reduces undesirable raw material offcuts thanks to a high degree of material utilization.

The BySoft CAM process software supports you in this process with intelligent nesting procedures.

Wide range of cutting applications

In addition, the new format increases the variety of cutting applications on the ByCut Smart. If required, large-format metal sheets allow large parts to be cut in addition to diverse small parts, without requiring the machine to interrupt the laser cutting process. This provides an additional competitive advantage that laser cutting systems in the common standard formats cannot offer.

Large format range for every need

In addition to cutting applications with extra-large metal sheets, it is also possible to process smaller sheets by lining them up on the ByCut Smart’s long cutting table. You can simply prepare sufficient raw material, in order to subsequently allow the fiber laser cutting system to cut without interruptions for a longer period of time.

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

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ECLIPSE HACKSAWS FROM FIRST CUT

Represented in South Africa by First Cut and with a proud history of hacksaw frame and blade manufacture stretching back nearly 100 years, Eclipse hacksaw blades and frames have become synonymous with engineering excellence and continuous product development. For example, in terms of development, the distinctive ground tooth profile of the Eclipse Bimetal blade produces a faster and more aggressive cutting action, that requires less effort and is more efficient. Their ergonomic design also makes them a pleasure to use. Whatever the application or the metal that needs to be cut, Eclipse will have exactly the right blade in its range.

For more information, please contact First Cut – Tel: 011 614-1112.

EVERISING FULLY AUTOMATIC BANDSAWS

Everising’s H series bandsaws are well-suited for heavy duty cutting applications as their column- type design allows for maximum cutting stability.

Everising has four pivot-type bandsaws in its S-250HB – S 460HB range. The bandsaws feature full PLC control of all electrical and hydraulic functions. The raising and lowering of the cutting head is controlled by a single lifting cylinder which makes for quick, efficient operation. Work-pieces are secured during cutting by a hydraulically controlled dual-vice clamping system. Blade tension, a factor that can extend the life of a blade, on Everising’s S machines is controlled hydraulically for optimal blade life. Blade speed is controlled by an inverter giving infinitely variable speeds of between 20 to 100 m/min. The machines also feature automatic shuttle-type feeding systems.

A pre-set counter shuts off the S Series bandsaws after a given number of items have been cut, while an idler-wheel motion-detector shuts down the machine should the blade stall or break. In addition, the saws detect when stock has run out and automatically shut down. In its column type H Series bandsaw range, Everising offers 11 different models. These range from the H-250HA with a 250mm cutting capacity to the large H-1100HANC capable of cutting workpieces of 1000mm x 1100mm dimension. The machines at the larger end of the range have progressively more features, such as the ability to use tungsten-carbide tipped blades. However, all of the H series bandsaws are well- suited for heavy duty cutting applications as their column type design allows for maximum cutting stability. Should the blade on an H series machine break, the machine will automatically shut down to protect both the operator and the machine. The bandsaws are fitted with automatic chip conveyors which keep the inside of the machine clean and save on operator time. In terms of the operator’s time, the H series are fitted with user-friendly NC touchscreen controls with a self- diagnostic control system. As with the S series, the H series’ hydraulic system and electrical devices are controlled by PLC. When there is need to cut bundles of steel rod, on the H series S-250B to the H-460 HB models, a hold-down device ensures that the material being cut stays secure in the machine thereby offering consistent quality. For larger work-pieces, the bandsaws in the H series are equipped with a hydraulic full-stroke, dual-vice clamping system. For machines capable of cutting diameters greater than 700mm, the guide arm travels on linear guide-ways for greater stability during cutting. On the larger H Series models, an anti-vibration roller not only eliminates vibration but extends blade life as well. The anti-vibration roller and the saw blade clamp are automatically adjusted. Optional H-Series devices feature an out-of-square detection system which automatically shuts the machine down while adjusting dual wire blade cleaning brushes which also serve to extend blade life. Everising’s automated functions allow for a minimum of skilled supervision.

For more information, please contact First Cut – Tel: 011 614-1112.

AMADA – THE FOREFRONT OF BANDSAWING TECHNOLOGY

Amada’s continued commitment to reliability and dependable service is evident through the continued research and development carried out by the company.

With over 75 years of experience and expertise to rely on, Amada is at the forefront of bandsawing technology. The ever-growing need for – faster, cheaper and simpler – is a driving force behind the development of state-of-the art equipment.

Everyone knows that time is money, but very few take heed to the practice of investing in reliable, dependable equipment in order to eliminate down time, to speed up production, increase quality and reduce scrap.

Amada has, through their many years of experience, managed to produce both machines and blades to cater for all cutting needs in the different world markets. Every feature, function and configuration offered by Amada has been carefully considered and applied to specific machine models in order to obtain the ultimate in productivity for specific cutting requirements. Amada’s aim is to take productivity to the next level, and offer products that exceed expectations. Features such as “skew cut detection” allow for unmanned production as the machine is constantly monitoring its own cutting accuracy.  Multi vices allow for bundle cutting which in turn increases through put and cut-off-counters ensure the correct number of cuts which prevents over or under production. Simple things like the positively driven wire brush add to the longevity of the blade by removing swarf from the root of the blade tooth and the variable blade speed adjustment ensures optimum operation.

Operator friendly controls ensure simplicity and ease of use, thus allowing skilled and semi-skilled operators to become professionals in their jobs. Simple hands-on training supplied by Amada will ensure proper, extended blade life as well as machine reliability.

HA Series

Amada’s range of sawing equipment is able to cater for all types of cutting demands. From a simple- accurate single piece cutting, to high volume- high demand accurate cutting, there is a machine model to suit every cutting need.

The Amada range of bandsaw machinery includes both horizontal and vertical models. The most popular of which has to be the ever-faithful “HA” – horizontal series. This tried and trusted HA series has proven that they are built to outlast any other. Some of these machines in the market are still running after 50 plus- years. Although technology has been updated over the years, the basics remain the same and accuracy and reliability are still guaranteed. The vertical range of bandsaws – the VM series is also a reliable range offered that has now been complimented with the “VT” Series which allows for the tilting of the cutting head for angular cutting. These machines are available as manual machines or automatic programmable options.

VM 1200
HPSAW 310
CM Series

High production requirements are catered for with the CM Series, the PC Saw and the HP Saw series of machines. These machines are capable of high speed and high volume cutting. Pre-set cutting conditions ensure accurate and optimal operation and drastically reduce scrap as well as material handing thanks to the programmable cutting data. Standard and optional accessories available will also assist in streamlining the cutting process in production.

Amada offers a full variety of bandsaw blades to compliment the reliability of the machinery. With careful attention given to detail, Amada blades have proven themselves to give outstanding blade life and accurate cutting results. The most common of the range is the SGLB blade. This is a M42 Bi-Metal blade that is ultimately the best “all-rounder”. The most important consideration when selecting a blade, is the blade pitch. This is what determines the ultimate blade life together with feed speeds. Coarse blades used on smaller products will cause blade chipping and premature blade failure. Similarly, fine blades on large products will result in teeth clogging and excessive heat      build-up , then premature failure again.  Feeds and speeds play just as an important role and it is imperative that settings are correct according to the blade being used and product being cut.

Axcela Blade
SGLB Blade

 

Amada offers a full range of blades to cater for all cutting needs. This range includes the SGLB, Axcela H, Axcela G, CTB, Magnum HI-LO, Magnum 71, Super HI-LO, Protector, Cobalt8 and DUOS blades. The TCB series of circular saw blades is also supplied by Amada for Cold Saws.

All blades manufactured by Amada are tested by stringent methods to ensure quality and reliability. This together with quality material grades used ensures reliability and longevity.

For more information, please contact Amada – Tel: 011 453-5459.

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New ROBOCUT α-CiC series

Thanks to a number of breakthrough advances, the new ROBOCUT α-CiC series of wire EDM machines from FANUC offers even higher levels of reliability, cutting speed, surface finish and dimensional precision. Among the many customer-centric enhancements are an entirely new mechanical structure, pitch error compensation across the complete work surface, a dramatic simplification in taper cutting adjustment and a hardened table as standard.

Electro-discharge machining (EDM) is the go-to process for parts out of electrically conductive materials where intricate contours or cavities are required, particularly in hard metals or those that would be difficult to machine using conventional techniques such as milling, turning or grinding. It was in 1975 that FANUC brought its first ROBOCUT wire EDM solution to the market. Since then, the company’s expert team of design and development engineers has worked continuously on new iterations to ensure customers stay ahead of their competitors. With the latest ROBOCUT α-CiC, wire EDM has reached another new dawn.

“Offering all-round, high-quality cutting performance and uncompromising reliability in a multitude of applications, the new ROBOCUT α-CiC wire erosion machine will bring genuine competitive gain to both subcontract and OE manufacturers,” states Stefan Raff, FANUC’s Head of Sales Robomachine Europe. “Nearly half a century since FANUC first launched its ROBOCUT wire EDM brand, we are bringing this foundation stone of wire erosion technology to the next-generation of manufacturers.”

Underpinning several of the improvements is a high-strength, high-rigidity upgrade to the mechanical structure of the main linear axes. This reconfiguration of the ROBOCUT design suppresses distortion and promotes better stability, which in turn leads to higher cutting accuracy and extended machine reliability, both of which are pillars of the FANUC philosophy.

The new ROBOCUT α-CiC will provide users with a further accuracy boost thanks to the introduction of a high-precision pitch error compensation function. A special factory-calibrated compensation grid ensures pitch error correction over the entire X-Y table area – rather than a single central point – delivering a significant advantage in workpiece accuracy. It no longer matters where the workpiece is located on the work surface, the same level of optimum precision will result.

Improvements in taper cutting performance and ease of adjustment represent another notable advance. The traditionally complex operation of setting and adjusting the wire taper is now straightforward thanks to the use of a basic jig guided by on-screen instructions.

Customers will also benefit from the inclusion of a hardened and durable workpiece table as standard, preventing any potential for scratches to develop.

Improved process control

FANUC appreciates that process control is paramount to success in wire EDM operations. ROBOCUT control enhancements via the latest feature-rich FANUC iH Pro user interface focus on leveraging the advantages of the new mechanical structure to cut more efficiently. The new and improved user interface with its 15’’ widescreen, multi-touch LCD means that more intuitive operation is a further advancement, even for those relatively new to wire EDM.

This high level of practicality extends to many other machine functions, including installation and maintenance. It now takes 2 hours less on average to complete installation, while many maintenance options are far quicker. For instance, maintenance of the feed rollers takes just 5 minutes, rather than 40. And, with the aim of reducing the already unlikely possibility of a breakdown, the FANUC iH Pro can highlight impending issues prior to failure, even providing a video or image that outlines how rectification can take place in-house to minimise downtime.

ROBOCUT α-CiC machines also feature new-generation discharge technology to achieve higher cutting speeds without wire breakage, particularly for rough cutting passes. Alternatively, users can opt to improve surface finish (to Ra 0.3 µm) without heavy compromises in speed. To help find the optimum speed/surface finish settings for a specific workpiece, FANUC has introduced a straightforward adjustment function. Now, instead of having to reference a complex table of parameters, users can adjust cutting performance via a simple +/- slider control while maintaining the discharge gap for stable machining.

Rapid wire threading

The new ROBOCUT α-CiC design offers more space for easy and quick wire threading. In terms of wire-related functions, the machine retains many popular features of the previous ROBOCUT generation, including highly reliable automatic wire feeding. The ROBOCUT AWF technology allows automatic wire feeding up to 500 mm under submerge conditions depending on the machine configuration.

ROBOCUT-Linki software, supplied as standard, serves to manage production and quality information. Users can monitor operations, receive e-mail alerts, manage consumables and transfer programs. With Linki, customers are able to connect up to 32 IoT-ready ROBOCUT α-CiC machines.

Further capabilities available to customers include: the ROBOCUT-CCR high-precision rotary table, which provides even more application opportunities (such as helical cutting and PCD tool machining); a wire loader (for 20-30 kg wire) to further boost continuous unmanned machining; and the potential to connect a machine-tending robot/cobot via a single Ethernet cable. To create solutions that meet specific requirements, full customisation is possible, either at the build stage or any point of the machine’s lifetime.

Space-saving design

Featuring a more compact design than the previous-generation machine, two model sizes are available: the ROBOCUT α-C400iC and ROBOCUT α-C600iC. Users can load workpieces with dimensions up to 1050 x 775 x 400 mm in the X, Y and Z axis respectively, with a maximum weight of 1000 kg.

Importantly, thanks to a comprehensive Europe-wide network of service centres, FANUC can offer lifetime support for its machines, regardless of running hours or age of control.

“Such is the reliability of FANUC and its machines that customers frequently enjoy using ROBOCUT models for several decades,” concludes Stefan Raff. “This dependable performance, matched by our extensive service provision, allows customers to concentrate on their core business of manufacturing parts with complete peace-of-mind. Wherever you are located, we have a local presence to ensure help is never far away.”

For more information, please contact FANUC South Africa – Tel: 011 392-3610.

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DEBURR IT WHILE YOU MAKE IT

TAPMATIC DeBurr-Z CNC FLOATING DEBURRING TOOL

The DeBurr-Z deburring tool is an axially (Z axis) floating tool holder, for use on CNC machines, designed for deburring or chamfering the sharp edges of a work piece. The floating holder allows the burr cutting tool to follow the edges of the part even when these are not clearly defined or vary in position like in the case of castings, cross holes or intersecting surfaces.

The DeBurr-Z compensates in both the compression and the extension direction allowing you to deburr both the top edges and underside edges of the work piece.

There are 10mm of both compression float and extension float and the force exerted against the work piece edge can be adjusted for harder work piece materials or to increase the size of the edge break.

The force adjustment works equally and simultaneously in both the compression and extension direction and making an adjustment does not affect the tool length.

Neighbouring tools and collision areas in the machine’s tool magazine will normally not pose a problem thanks to the compact design.

Maximum recommended speed is 10,000 RPM.

The feed rate can be programmed based on the material, and the desired edge break size and finish.

Using external flood coolant / lubrication, results in the longest tool life and best finish.

Burr cutting tools with angular and spherical profiles can be used.

For more information, please contact Duncan Macdonald – Tel: 011 444-4345.

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UNIVERSAL EXCELLENCE IN MILLING

Walter Xill·tec™ combines performance with wide applicability

With Xill·tec™, the solid carbide milling cutters in the MC230 Advance product range, Walter is presenting a new range of products: A new type of high-performance geometry with an asymmetrical helix (35°/38°) was combined with Walter’s own wear-resistant and high-performance grade WK40TF. The result is a tool family with high performance that also offers universal applicability for roughing and finishing.

The milling cutter experts have consolidated the developments of the past ten years in the Xill·tec™ range. The asymmetrical helix, the most important feature of the geometry, enables smooth, low-vibration operation: This is essential for long tool life and process reliability. Fractures are avoided and the high level of operational smoothness contributes to the soft cutting action of the Xill·tec™ milling cutter.

The solid carbide milling cutters are suitable for all ISO material groups (P, M, K, N and S) as well as all common milling operations, such as shoulder milling, ramping, (helical) plunging and full slotting (up to 1×D), while exhibiting a high-performance level. This is also true for innovative machining strategies such as dynamic milling. The comprehensive range of products also contributes to the universal applicability of the Xill·tec™: The milling cutters are available with and without corner radii, with centre cutting edge, reduced neck, protective chamfer, cylindrical and Weldon shank. The universal applicability and an outstanding price/performance ratio make the milling cutters an appealing option not just for sub-suppliers and channel partners, but also for users in a wide range of different sectors.

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

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