Home Blog Page 37

naamsa ANNOUNCES NEW VEHICLE SALES TURNAROUND

naamsa logo

The Automotive Business Council recently, as it has become a monthly national ritual, released the March 2021 new vehicle statistics and said that the expected new vehicle market turnaround has commenced as the monthly comparisons would from now on, be with the COVID-19 affected months of 2020.

Aggregate domestic sales in March 2021, at 44 217 units, reflected a substantial increase of 10 671 units, or 31,8%, from the 33 546 vehicles sold in March last year. Export sales also recorded a huge increase in March 2021 and at 40 026 units reflected a gain of 11 137 units, or 38,6%, compared to the 28 889 vehicles exported in March 2020.

naamsa CEO, Mikel Mabasa said “the turnaround in the new vehicle market has commenced during March 2021 compared to the corresponding month last year when the country lockdown restrictions resulted in the temporary suspension of vehicle production and sales towards the end of March 2020”.

“The industry is expected to start recapturing lost demand on its recovery path in 2021, considering the close correlation between new vehicle sales and the country’s anticipated annual GDP growth rate in excess of 3%. However, structural constraints, which exist in the economy, coupled with the growing debt of the country and the ongoing electricity capacity limitations that business may be faced with in the future do not bode well for a quick recovery. New vehicle sales in 2021 may also be hampered by stock shortages of some models in the coming months, caused by COVID-19 induced manufacturing supply chain disruptions, such as the current global shortage of semi-conductors, or computer chips, an important part of modern vehicles”, Mabasa said.

Overall, out of the total reported industry sales of 44 217 vehicles, an estimated 37 572 units, or 85,0%, represented dealer sales, an estimated 8,7% represented sales to the vehicle rental industry, 3,7% sales to government, and 2,6% to industry corporate fleets. The March 2021 new passenger car market at 27 330 units had registered an increase of 5 187 cars, or an improvement of 23,4%, compared to the 22 143 new cars sold in March 2020. The car rental industry accounted for a solid 12,3% of car sales in March 2021.

Domestic sales of new light commercial vehicles, bakkies and mini-buses at 14 375 units during March 2021 had recorded an improvement of 4 941 units, or a massive increase of 52,4%, from the 9 434 light commercial vehicles sold during the corresponding month last year. Sales for medium and heavy truck segments of the industry also reflected a positive performance and at 705 units and 1 807 units, respectively, showed an increase of 73 units, or 11,6% in the case of medium commercial vehicles, and, in the case of heavy trucks and buses a substantial gain of 470 vehicles, or an improvement of 35,2%, compared to the corresponding month last year.

The March 2021 exports sales number at 40 026 units reflected a massive increase of 11 137 vehicles or 38,6% compared to the 28 889 vehicles exported in March 2020. For the first three months of 2021 vehicle exports were now 13 019 units, or 16,8% above the corresponding period last year.

Vehicle export numbers gained significant upward momentum during the month and will be supported by the rebound in global economic growth prospects for 2021. In terms of a timeframe for a full recovery to pre-COVID-19 vehicle record export levels, much will depend on the ongoing path of the pandemic and how it is managed by the South African automotive industry’s main trading partners.

FORD ANNOUNCES STEPS TOWARDS CARBON NEUTRALITY

Ford Solar Energy Project

All passenger vehicles in Europe are expected to be all-electric by 2030, as Ford invests $1 billion in a new manufacturing centre in Cologne and begins delivery of Mustang Mach-E.

On the road to building a better world for future generations, Ford has announced significant greenhouse gas emission targets in its 2021 Integrated Sustainability and Financial Report summary, milestones that will help the company achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. 

Ford has used the approach of the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) to set interim emissions targets that are in line with what the latest climate scientists deem necessary to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.* The 2035 targets consist of reducing absolute greenhouse gas emissions from company global operations by 76 per cent and from new vehicles sold globally by 50 per cent per kilometre. 

Key to the reduction of emissions is the development of electrified vehicles. Ford’s strategy in Europe is to go all-in on electrification, with passenger vehicles to be all-electric by 2030. For commercial vehicles, Ford’s product range in Europe will be zero-emissions capable, with all-electric or plug-in hybrid offerings, as early as 2024.

Spearheading the move to electric is the $1 billion investment to transform the company’s vehicle assembly facility in Cologne into a centre for the manufacture of electric vehicles, Ford’s first such facility in Europe. Also, the next generation Ford Transit Custom range will include all-electric models built by Ford Otosan in Turkey, further advancing Ford’s electrification strategy and commercial vehicle leadership in Europe.

“We will lead in achieving carbon neutrality because it’s the right thing for customers, the planet and for Ford,” said Bob Holycross, chief environment and sustainability and safety officer, Ford Motor Company. “Ninety-five per cent of our carbon emissions today come from our vehicles, operations and suppliers, and we’re tackling all three areas with urgency and optimism.”

Carbon neutrality 2050

 

 

The company’s 2050 carbon neutrality goal is aligned with the Paris Climate Agreement, which the US recently recommitted to and Ford fully supports.

Shifting to a single Integrated Report for the first time increases transparency and provides a more holistic view of the company’s success.

 

Alternative energy solutions for the future

Ford is focussed on investing in electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles and connected solutions. The company recently doubled the investment in electric vehicles to $22 billion through 2026 as Ford continues to electrify some of its most popular nameplates – including the highly anticipated Mustang Mach-E SUV, which rolled out in North America in late 2020, followed by Europe in early 2021, and will arrive in China later this year.

In addition to the $1 billion investment to transform the company’s vehicle assembly facility in Cologne into a centre for the manufacture of electric vehicles, construction has already begun on the new Rouge Electric Vehicle Center in Dearborn, in the US, where the all-electric F-150 pick-up truck will be built. These investments – together with another $1 billion announced in February to transform operations in Pretoria, South Africa – will further help reduce Ford’s overall carbon footprint.

Last year, Ford South Africa announced the launch of Project Blue Oval; a renewable energy project which aligns with the company’s global target of using 100 per cent locally sourced renewable energy for all its manufacturing plants by 2035, and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. In its first phase, construction of solar carports for 4,200 vehicles at the Silverton Assembly Plant will go a long way to seeing the Pretoria property become entirely energy self-sufficient and carbon neutral by 2024 – making it one of the first Ford plants in the world to achieve this status.

Ford Silverton solar car port

Also included in Project Blue Oval planning is the implementation of treated wastewater reuse at the assembly plant. The short-term goal will be to capture 100 per cent of the facility’s wastewater for recycling, and to reuse the maximum available volume back into the manufacturing process. The long-term goal will be to identify and utilise alternative non-fresh water sources to eliminate the use of fresh water in manufacturing entirely.

Building on our success and setting new goals

Reduced Greenhouse gas

Ford has a strong history in making its operations more sustainable. Over the past decade, Ford has achieved a 40 per cent reduction in the carbon footprint through improved energy efficiency and conservation at company facilities, as well as manufacturing processes. Ford’s objective of using 100 per cent locally sourced renewable electricity for all manufacturing plants by 2035 is on track and is closely linked with its commitment to electrified vehicles. 

 

Along with the commitment towards zero waste to landfill through the “reduce, reuse, recycle” model and eliminating single-use plastics, the company’s global manufacturing water strategy targets a 15 per cent reduction in absolute freshwater by 2025 from the 2019 baseline, building on the 75 per cent reduction since 2000.

Endorsed by the SBTi, the two targets for 2035 were developed to reduce near-term emissions, addressing the urgency of climate change while helping Ford achieve the ambitious long-term goal of carbon neutrality by 2050:

  • Reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions from global operations by 76 per cent from a 2017 base year. Scope 1 covers direct emissions from company-owned or -controlled sources. Scope 2 addresses indirect emissions from the generation of purchased electricity, steam, heating and cooling used by Ford.

• Reduce Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions from use of new vehicles globally sold by 50 per cent per kilometre from a 2019 base year. Scope 3 includes in-use emissions from vehicles that Ford sells and emissions from its supply base, among others.

Ford

 

NEWAY CNC VERTICAL MACHINING CENTRES

Neway Vertical Machining Centre VM1150.

Neway CNC Equipment Co offers a cost effective range of vertical machining centres, which are manufactured at the company’s modern manufacturing plants in Suzhou China. Neway’s excellent manufacturing and quality control capabilities are maximized by the use of latest equipment from well-known international brands including Zayer, Kellenberger, Starragheckert, Swiss SIP, Renishaw and Shenck. They hold ISO and CE certification. Neway’s Chinese manufacturing operation is supported by the group’s head office in Texas USA and a sales and support centre in Germany. Neway CNC Equipment currently offers a range of moving table vertical machining centres which range in table size from 750 x 420mm to 1800 x 800mm. This range is available in the following table sizes, VM740 – 750 x 420mm, VM950 – 950 x 520mm, VM1150 – 1100 x 520mm, VM1260 – 1200 x 600mm, VM1360 – 1350 x 600mm, VM1580 – 1500 x x800mm, VM1780 – 1700 x 800 and VM1880 – 1800 x 800mm. The VM740, VM950 and VM1150 models are fitted with BT40 spindle tapers. These three models are available as a lower specification S series with a Fanuc 0i-Mate-MD controller or a higher specified H series which are supplied with a Fanuc 0i-MD controller. The VM1260 and VM1360 models are fitted with BT 40 spindle taper as standard and can be supplied with a BT50 spindle taper as an option. The VM1580, VM1780 and VM1880 are only available as H series specification with Fanuc 0i-MD controllers and have BT50 spindle tapers as standard. With the exception of the VM740, which has a 20 tool magazine, all models in the range come with a 24 tool magazine and arm type tool changer. The complete series of models from VM740 to VM1880 in the S and H range have linear guideways on all three axis. The additional HR series which is available in sizes from VM950 to VM1780 feature box guideways as opposed to linear guideways. Full enclosure guarding and chip conveyors feature as standard equipment across the entire range. Factory fitted optional equipment includes 4th axis rotary tables, through spindle coolant, workpiece measuring and toolsetting probes systems. Spindle oil cooling systems and coolant water/oil separators are available on request. To complement the range of vertical machining centres, Neway CNC Equipment offers the VM640D drilling and tapping machine. This machine has a table size of 650 x 400mm, a 16 position cam type tool changer with a 1.6 second tool change, a spindle speed of 15 000 rpm, X and Y axis rapid feed rates of 48 meters per minute and a Z axis rapid feed rate of 60 meters per minute. They come fitted with the Fanuc 0i MD controller.

For more information, please contact Machine Tool Promotions – Tel: 016 931 1564.

FAW TRUCKS REACHES IMPORTANT MILESTONE

FAW Trucks

FAW Trucks ended the month of April on a high note when the 7 000th locally assembled vehicle rolled out of its Coega manufacturing plant. This marked another significant milestone for the Chinese brand that took top spot in the Heavy Commercial Vehicle (HCV) segment of the local market for the first time in the first quarter of this year.

The unit in question was a JH6 28.500FT model, which has since been delivered to a well-established strategic fleet customer. 

The largest of the truck tractors from FAW Trucks, the JH6 28.500FT features a full floating extended-roof cab with an innovative flat floor design for optimal comfort and interior space. Its 13-litre, six-cylinder common-rail turbocharged and intercooled diesel powerplant produces 370 kW at 1 800 r/min, has 2 300 Nm of peak torque on tap at 1 400 r/min and is commonly referred to as China’s most efficient engine. It is mated to a ZF 12-speed TraXon AMT transmission, with parabolic spring suspension front and rear to address vehicle weight requirements. A full air dual circuit WABCO braking system with ABS enhances the long hauler’s safety features. 

Says Jianyu Hao, CEO of FAW South Africa: “This is an understandably proud moment for us. It reaffirms our commitment to the local market and is the result of one of the largest investments made by a Chinese entity in this country.

“Since first entering the South African market 27 years ago, we have gone from strength to strength, providing local buyers with products of high quality that are not only well suited to local conditions, but also boast high levels of safety, convenience and comfort. We have managed to combine this with competitive pricing, low running costs and excellent aftersales service.” 

Funded by the China FAW Group Corporation and the China-Africa Development Fund, the first vehicle rolled off the Coega assembly line in July 2014. The facility was built at a cost of R600 million and spans some 30 000m². This includes a state-of-the-art training facility, a body shop and a paint shop. As a responsible corporate citizen, it provides employment for 148 staff members. 

All units arrive in South Africa in semi knocked-down form and are then assembled at Coega. 

Currently, the Coega facility has a production capacity of 3 000 units per annum, but this is scalable to 5 000 in order to be able to meet growing demand for FAW Truck models.

“The reason for our continued growth in South Africa is the fact that we cater to virtually every need within the highly competitive commercial vehicle market,” explains Hao. In addition, all models are assembled to exacting standards in order to be able to withstand the harsh conditions of the African continent.

“All current models in the local FAW Trucks range represent the strength, reliability, affordability and ease of operation that the brand and its products are renowned for. Most importantly, though, each model delivers on the promise of a ‘truck built in South Africa for Africa’,” Hao concludes. 

 

FANUC ROBODRILL ADVANCED VERSION

Versatility, Speed & Intelligence

The new-generation Advanced Version ROBODRILL promises unrivalled quality and precision at great hourly rates.

With an unbeatable tool change time of 0.7 seconds and a turret capable of handling tools weighing up to 4kg, the new advanced version is both the fastest and strongest Robodrill yet. With by far the shortest cycle times on most machining operations, all ROBODRILL machines offer incredible performance and unbeatable efficiency.

Designed to meet every need, the ROBODRILL α-DiB5 series comprises of six completely redesigned models in Space Saver, Medium and Long sizes, available in either standard or advanced versions. With a rigid servo drive control and a highly dynamic BT30 spindle, these high-speed all-rounders are suitable for all vertical machining applications, from short production runs requiring fast turnaround times to flawless mass production. With well over 200 000 machines installed worldwide, its future-proof versatility and easy adaptability make the ROBODRILL the best-selling machine in its class.

Spreading your machining work across several ROBODRILLs instead of relying on a dedicated transfer machine, allows you to benefit from cheaper production and higher flexibility in the face of changing production numbers. Inherently adaptable, FANUC ROBODRILL also represents a great addition to your production facilities, since you can use it to absorb extra demand, thereby freeing up your larger vertical machining centres for bigger jobs.

Spreading your machining work across several ROBODRILLs instead of relying on a dedicated transfer machine, allows you to benefit from cheaper production and higher flexibility in the face of changing production numbers. Inherently adaptable, FANUC ROBODRILL also represents a great addition to your production facilities, since you can use it to absorb extra demand, thereby freeing up your larger vertical machining centres for bigger jobs.

The Advanced Version offers many unique improvements:

Improved swarf evacuation

To maximize uptime, the ROBODRILL α-DiB5 series can be fitted with a number of swarf evacuation options: from the coolant tank and chip flush methods to a piping system for wall coolant. Advanced versions minimize swarf interference with a mountain-shaped Y-axis front cover. It also offers an optional fully-enclosed spindle cover that separates the machining area from the mechanism.

Stronger Turret for bigger Tools

At the heart of every ROBODRILL is a patented high-speed tool changer that can carry up to 21 tools and offers the best reliability in its class. Its manufactured efficiency lies in its solid metal construction and optional BIG-PLUS BBT30 spindle.

This makes it extremely resistant to radial forces and enables it to deliver unbelievably efficient machining.

Advanced version ROBODRILLs feature an even stronger turret. Offering even more versatility, this enables the tool changer to handle heavy, customized cutting tools weighing up to 4kg while still realizing ultraquick tool changing times.

Power Failure Backup Module

Power interruptions can be costly. Avoid unnecessary workpiece damage or tool damage with FANUCs Power Failure Backup module. This will prevent the tool from dropping into the workpiece or the axis from slowly decelerating to a stop potentially causing a collision with the spindle, or jigs and fixtures.

All of the new model ROBODRILLS can be fitted with the improved Direct Drive 4th axis with built in brake. For ultra high speed indexing, or 4 axis simultaneous work, the new DDRiB offers unrivalled speed and accuracy.

When you have longer workpieces or want to put many on the table at the same time, the new DDR-TiB offers a factory built 4th axis with tail support, base plate, and angle brackets for a swing plate. Available in 300mm, 500mm or 700mm in X direction, this allows maximum use of the ROBODRILLS travel space.

Need a 5 axis machine? No problem!

ROBODRILLs are available with 5 axis simultaneous control allowing machining of complex workpieces. Control functions like Tool Certer Point Control and smart smoothing functions mean you can manufacture high quality parts quickly and accurately.

Smart Automation and Robotization

As the worlds largest manufacturer of Industrial robots, FANUC offers the advantage of full automation and robotization from a single supplier.

Through a single Package called QSSR, or Quick and Simple Start of Robotization, robot loading can be quickly configured.

IoT and Information Management

In todays world information is everything. FANUC offers a solution for production monitoring for the factory floor. Information from each machine is gathered and presented graphically. Production count or time, tool life information, alarm diagnosis, program details, feed & speed details etc can be viewed and stored for every machine connected to the system.

FANUCs legendary reliability coupled with easy preventative maintenance procedures keeps downtime to an absolute minimum. And thanks to their extreme longevity, ROBODRILL machines also provide an unbeatable return on investment.

FANUC ROBODRILL is proudly made in Japan and comes with a 2 year mechanical and control warranty.

FROM CONVENTIONAL MILLING TO CNC MILLING

In a market where skilled artisans are becoming more and more scarce, it has become necessary to look at alternative ways of machining, whether it be for general engineering, tool-making or production work CNC machining is quicker and certainly more accurate than conventional milling machines and there is no need for constant monitoring while in use. Taking this into account, MJH Machine Tools have a solution to suit customers’ needs. Featuring an entry level CNC control, our Ctek CNC milling machine is the first step to CNC machining. As long as the operator has basic knowledge on using a DRO, he can, within a few hours, be taught how to program and run the machine. There is no need for G code knowledge as the control is conversational, using a question and answer format. The software is simple to use with graphic input in basic machinist language. The control has options for standard operation modes such as drill, tap, bore, contour and pocket programming, which is ideally suited to general engineering work without a need for external programming packages. The latest Ctek’s come with linear guides on all three axes for better accuracy and speed, as well as a direct spindle drive motor and an improved Z axis motor with inline break which eliminates the need for a counterbalance. The Ctek can be fitted with a 4th axis within a matter of hours and programmed from the standard Ctek control.

The Ctek range has six x-travel sizes, 800mm, 1 000mm, 1 500mm, 1 800mm, 2 000mm and 2 500mm. These machines are available in open type or fully enclosed depending on the customer’s requirements. All spares are available ex stock at a fraction of the cost compared to other controls. With hundreds of these machines sold throughout South Africa since 1997, it is not surprising that Ctek CNC milling machines have been the first step to full CNC machining in many workshops. Should there be a requirement for a high performance machining centre for super fine finishing and accuracy, the Akira Seiki is the machine to consider. Spindle power ranging from 15HP on the Junior series to 42HP on the Super Vertical range and spindle speeds from 9 000rpm to 15 000rpm guarantee high quality surface finish. Akira Seiki machines come standard with spindle oil chillers, inner spindle air chiller, coolant through spindle, pneumatic counter balance, chip screw conveyor, quick change ATC and 4th axis preparation.

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

HIGH PERFORMANCE TAPS FOR HIGHER CUTTING SPEEDS AND TOOL LIFE

NORIS STABIL UNI HSS-PS TiCN in machining situation through hole: Chips are evacuated in the cutting direction.

NORIS taps for processing a wide variety of steel alloys, cast iron and various nonferrous alloys are well known under the names SALOREX UNI for blind holes and STABIL UNI for through-hole. REIME NORIS now extends the UNI series to high performance taps made of HSSE-PM (HSS-PS) with improved cutting geometry and TiCN coating. NORIS SALOREX UNI – the specialist for deep blind hole threads up to 3 x D thread depth – has 42° right-hand helix flutes. These provide secure chip removal against the cutting direction. NORIS STABIL UNI stands for the production of through hole threads up to 4 x D thread depth. The special STABIL-flutes move the chips in the cutting direction. The drills are available in metric sizes from M3 to M20 and M8 x 1 to M16 x 1,5 in stock. In both versions, the use of powder metallurgical high-speed steel permits higher cutting speeds while increasing tool life. The user benefits by increasing the cycle times and a reduction in tool costs. With the ability to process a very wide range of materials, additional cost of storage and tool investment can be reduced. The proven cutting edge geometries were further optimized in detail. They are specially adapted to the characteristics of the HSSE-PM substrate and the coating. REIME NORIS thus promises significant performance gains and expects especially in the production of small- and medium-sized series, the greatest economic advantages of using these high performance taps.

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

ECONOMICAL 14 CUTTING EDGES – 6mm INSERT

As the need for machining smaller volume work pieces made from cast iron and steel has grown, so has the need for smaller size tools that can enhance productivity and reduce operating cost. Therefore TaeguTec offers a smaller size insert for its highly popular Chase2Hepta milling line. The Chase2Hepta 6mm inserts and cutters are available to meet the challenges posed by technical trends in forging and casting technologies which is demanding higher productivity and economical tools that can handle lower depth of cut conditions. The Chase2Hepta line is renowned for offering 14 corners on one insert.

The double-sided and highly effective 45 degrees entry angle is the ideal solution for high performance on cast iron and steel machining, while its positive cutting edge geometry lowers cutting loads during rough machining making it an efficient and smooth set of tools. Covering a wider range of machining applications, the dual usage TaeguTec Chase2Hepta 6mm inserts are screw type. The line of mini cutters comes in three geometries – the M, MM and ML.

M Geometry
MM Geometry

The M geometry 6mm Chase2Hepta line is used for roughing applications of steel and cast iron work pieces and its smooth machining with good tool life is due to its reinforced, positive rake angle. For general cast iron machining applications, the optimized cutting edges of TaeguTec’s MM geometry chip breakers on the Chase2Hepta 6mm line means low cutting forces in cast iron machining.

ML Geometry

The ML geometry for the 6mm line is ideal for cast iron light machining and difficult to cut materials such as stainless steel and heat resistant alloys. Its sharp, positive cutting edge was designed for minimal cutting force.

 

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

 

VERSATILE HIGH FEED MILL WITH STRONG 4 CUTTING EDGE INSERT

To meet market demand, TaeguTec has released an expansion to the CHASE-4-FEED family – BLMP 04, 11 inserts and cutters. They are, smaller double-sided four corner BLMP 04 inserts for small and high feed machining applications. The smaller size inserts mean more inserts can be mounted to the same diameter cutters, which will greatly improve productivity over the existing BLMP 06 type under similar conditions. Available in Ø8(1z) and Ø10(2z) sizes, these are an alternative to solid end mills for roughing operations. While both the BLMP 11 and BLMP 13 cover a similar machining range, the BLMP 11 inserts give an advantage as they make it a finer pitch same diameter cutter for better productivity. The cutters come in all types, including face mill, end mill and modular types. While, as part of the new campaign, the design for the new CHASE-4- FEED line highlights TaeguTec’s

new direction, the new CHASE-4-FEED logo will be applied to the BLMP 06, 09 inserts and cutters as well.

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

HURCO CNC LATHE CONSIDERATIONS AND TERMINOLOGY

I am often amazed at the number of highly skilled CNC machinists and operators who can accomplish almost anything on a milling machine, but who are very uneasy and intimidated around a lathe because they don’t really understand the meaning of basic lathe terminology.

Michael Cope, Senior Applications Engineer & Product Specialist at Hurco Companies, Inc.

That is the purpose of this article. I will try to clarify the meaning and benefit of a few of the “not-so-obvious” features that exist on a typical lathe spec sheet, and attempt to clarify their definition and explain why they might be an important consideration when purchasing a CNC lathe.

Maximum Turning Diameter: This simply indicates the largest size of part that can be turned on the machine – using standard length tooling – without interference or collision with guarding or other machine components.

With the X-axis retracted all the way positive, what size of part can be turned safely, as it relates to X-axis travels of the machine tool. For example: if you are looking at a machine with a max turning diameter of 16″, and the parts that you run on a regular basis are 15″ in diameter or larger, then you would probably want to look at a machine with a larger maximum turning diameter.

Even though, in our example above, the part would technically “fit” in this case, you must realize that you are running on the very edge of the envelope, and if you had to hang a tool out of the turret farther than normal – for one reason or another – you would likely NOT have enough X-axis travel to accommodate the part.

Maximum Swing: Refers to the largest diameter part that can be spun in the chuck without mechanical interference with guarding, cross-slide, or other machine components located near the chucking area. Depending on the style and design of the machine tool in question, this value could be larger than the maximum turning diameter mentioned above, however this does NOT mean that you can turn a part larger than that specified in the maximum turning diameter specification.

Horsepower & Torque: Horsepower and torque are obvious considerations when purchasing a new machine, but their necessity may not be so obvious in all cases. If you are running work such as castings and forgings, drilling large diameter holes in steel, or generally turning features on large diameter parts, then horsepower and torque are going to be very important to you, and you should be certain that the machine in question has enough for your application. However, if you are more focused on high production or general turning of small to medium sized parts, then spindle RPM may become more important than power in your case.

Just as we have seen in the milling arena over the past several years, high-speed machining is quickly making its way into turning as well. As the technology of turning tooling is advancing, and through the tool coolant options are more prevalent, the principles of cutting shallower but faster are becoming more common. Spindle speed, rapid traverse, and maximum programmable feed rates become much more important than sheer horsepower and torque.

Maximum Turning Length: Very similar to the maximum turning diameter, this specification indicates the longest part that can be turned based on the mechanical limitations and axis travels of the machine tool. Keep in mind – the effective maximum turning length, for a particular part, can be less than specified by the use of larger or deeper chucks, or tooling that sticks out from the face of the turret farther than what is considered “normal”. In both cases you would be introducing the possibility for mechanical interferences – which would restrict the length of the part that could be machined, even though the physical travels and limits of the machine have not been changed.

 

Bed design 

Now let’s discuss the ins and outs of the two main bed designs – the true slant bed and the flatbed “flying wedge” configurations.

First we will dive into the true slant bed design. Unlike the flatbed flying wedge design – where the slant is achieved by the addition of a bolt-on wedge that is mounted on the cross slide – the true slant bed machine casting is manufactured with the slant built in. This not only offers more rigidity and thermal stability, but also proves to give the casting more overall mass, and means you have a much heavier machine with a smaller footprint. Typically the true slant bed design is offered in one of two slant angles, 30 degree and 45 degree, but there are also some 60 degree models available.

There are many advantages to the true slant bed design, and it is probably the most common configuration in modern CNC lathes. One of the most well-known and obvious advantages to the true slant bed is better chip evacuation. As the chips are created during the machining process, they are immediately washed down toward the chip bed by gravity and the normal flow of the coolant. This keeps chips from accumulating on flat surfaces, which not only helps control the chips in high volume production applications, but can also aid in prolonging the overall life of a machine – by reducing undue wear on the ways and other moving parts.

Another advantage to the true slant design is larger X-axis travels. Unlike the flatbed lathes where guide rail length is limited to the horizontal depth of the casting, the true slant bed design allows for longer X-axis rails. Just like in a square box, the straight sides of the box are one specific length, but the angular distance from one corner to the other is much longer. The same is true for the slant bed casting design which obviously means a larger part capacity in a smaller machine footprint. Although the flying wedge design, with the bolt-on slant, can also offer some increased X-axis travels over traditional flatbed machines, it can also magnify the lack of rigidity that is present in the bolt-on approach. You just cannot substitute for a sturdy casting design.

Thermal dynamics are also a big consideration in any machining process. The angular configuration of the base casting, and extended X-axis guideways, also offer better rigidity and part accuracies. Since the linear rails are longer, the base saddle casting that carries the turret can also be longer, providing a much sturdier base of support for the turret. And as the machine components begin to heat-up during the machining process, the headstock, tailstock and cross slide will all begin to grow along the same 30, 45, or 60 degree plane as the X-axis – unlike the flatbed flying wedge design, where the X-axis is mounted on a slant, but the rest of the machine components are mounted on the horizontal flatbed plane.

For more information, contact Hurco – Tel: (011) 849-5600.

1...363738...99Page 37 of 99