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SPOTTED AT A SPECIAL TAEGUTEC SEMINAR DAY

SPOTTED AT a special TaeguTec Seminar day dedicated to increasing productivity and profitability on the production floor, conducted by IMC Group president Jacob Harpaz. IMC Group

IMC Group president Jacob Harpaz.
L-R Hans Rossouw, Managing Director, TaeguTec, South Africa and Nathan Govender, General Manager, TaeguTec, South Africa.

FORD RANGER REMAINS THE TOP LIGHT COMMERCIAL VEHICLE EXPORT FROM SOUTH AFRICA

Local production of the Ford Ranger continues to make a significant impact on the South African economy. Overall, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa contributes over 1 percent to the country’s GDP and tops the country’s light commercial vehicle exports, with Rangers exported from Ford’s Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria to more than 100 global markets.

“Since we began building the current-generation Ranger in 2011, 400 000 units have been exported around the world,” says Ockert Berry, VP Operations at Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA). “Locally assembled Rangers are exported to the Sub-Saharan Africa region, North Africa, the Middle East, Europe and several other countries, which positions our domestic operations on a truly global scale.

“Along with domestic sales having surpassed 225 000 Rangers to date, we are on track to build our 700 000th Ranger in 2020,” Berry adds. “This is a fantastic achievement for our local plants, our employees and the extensive network of suppliers that support our business.” Ford employs around 4 300 people in South Africa, and supports over 50 000 jobs in the total value chain.

In 2019, the Ford Ranger continued its leadership of exports in the pickup segment, with 65 908 vehicles supplied to international customers 24.9 percent, or 16 402 units, more than its nearest rival.

This strong demand was primarily from Europe where Ranger notched up its best-ever sales of over 52 500 vehicles – an achievement that helped Ford record its best year for commercial vehicles in the region for the past 25 years.

SOUTH AFRICA A LEADING SUPPLIER OF CATALYTIC CONVERTERS FOR FORD GLOBALLY

Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) is one of South Africa’s top vehicle exporters and the leader in the pickup segment, with the locally assembled Ford Ranger exported to over 100 global markets. It is also a significant supplier of components to Ford manufacturing plants internationally by managing the local manufacturing and export of catalytic converters.

Annually, more than 1.8-million catalytic converters are supplied from South Africa to 25 Ford vehicle manufacturing plants around the world, along with two aftermarket divisions – with more than 18-million units exported over the past decade. The catalytic converter is an essential exhaust emissions control device that reduces toxic gasses and pollutants from diesel and petrol internal combustion engines, thus contributing towards cleaner emissions and reduced environmental impact.

FMCSA has nine local catalytic converter manufacturers – six of which are based in Port Elizabeth, two in Cape Town and one in Germiston – which support Ford’s global vehicle assembly operations for a variety of models. A single supplier located in Ibiden, Hungary, is also contracted by FMCSA to supply customer plants in Europe.

“Catalytic converters have been a crucial part of our export business since this division was established in the mid-1990s,” says Ockert Berry, VP Operations at FMCSA. “The programme ramped up significantly in 2002, and through to the end of 2019 we have supplied almost 37-million catalytic converters to Ford plants around the world.”

“As a highly specialised industry, the catalytic converter business is an important contributor towards investment and employment in the local economy and currently supports several thousand jobs at our nine local supplier companies.”

In 2019 alone, over 160 000 catalytic converters were fitted to Ford Ranger pickup and Everest seven-seater sport utility vehicle (SUV) models produced at the Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria and destined for the domestic and export markets. Catalytic converters are also exported to Ford Ranger assembly plants in Argentina and Thailand.

South Africa supplies catalytic converters to Ford plants in Europe that assemble the Fiesta, Figo, KA, B-Max, EcoSport, Focus, Mondeo/Fusion, C-Max and Transit/Tourneo.

Locally manufactured catalytic converters are also shipped to North America for use in the Ford Fusion which is assembled in Oakville, Canada, along with the Transit van produced at the Kansas City plant in the US.

PARTING 4 PRODUCTIVITY WITH TANG-F-GRIP

Always at the cutting edge of developments in the field of cutting tools, ISCAR introduces a revolutionary system for parting and grooving operations.

Parting and grooving are essential aspects of the turning process and the metalworking industry faces a constant challenge to integrate methods that will increase efficiency and decrease downtime for these popular operations.

ISCAR fully understands the importance of parting and grooving operations in the turning process and that multiple factors need to be considered for every application, including machine tool selection, the type of material being parted/ grooved, required depth of cut, and feed and speed rates. ISCAR has responded to these complex needs by developing a comprehensive range of highly effective parting and grooving solutions that include an extensive choice of insert geometries, chip breakers, and carbide grades – and the range continues to expand.

With Industry 4.0 demands and standards fueling industry development at extraordinary rates, ISCAR has introduced new parting and grooving technologies capable of integrating seamlessly with the new wave of machining centers that work with incredibly high feeds. TANG-F-GRIP has been designed to answer these needs and to achieve high productivity and lower costs.

DOGRIP Tool.
TANGFGRIP Insert.

A revolutionary parting system designed for increased productivity, TANG-F-GRIP comprises a robust tool block carrying square blades that feature four pockets, with a unique parting concept capable of parting off up to 120mm bar diameter to optimize performance.

TANG-F-GRIP is simple to mount and operate on all machine types, including multi-task and machining centers on X-AXIS, without any need for special adjustment. The system enables the mounting of both TANG-F-GRIP and DO-GRIP blades on the same blocks.

The square blades possess a support system that provides totally vibrationfree grooving and parting. TANG-F-GRIP also saves on setup time as, in cases of pocket damage, the block’s configuration allows a blade to be rotated to a new pocket without setup.

TANG-F-GRIP is intended for high feed parting. It extends insert life, improves surface finish and part straightness, and features high stability – especially when parting large diameters. The new patented blades reduce cutting time and also enable significant material savings – for instance, a 120mm bar can be cut with a 3mm blade with HF (high feed) inserts at a feed rate of up to 0.4 mm/rev (.0157ipr).

DOGRIP Tool.
DOGRIP insert.

The HF tangential single-ended insert was developed to enable highly efficient parting at very high feed rates, by use of a unique chipformer technology. The insert features a new insert chipformer to allow unobstructed chip flow, which increases insert and blade tool life and leads to very high productivity gains.

All TANG-GRIP inserts can be integrated into the TANG-F-GRIP system, which is also compatible with DO-GRIP DGN double-sided twisted geometry parting inserts, to provide an extensive choice of parting widths for all application ranges. ISCAR offers a wide variety of chipformers and advanced grades to ensure unbeatable performance and extended tool life.

TANGFGRIP Application.
DOGRIP Application.

A revolutionary secure clamping method using a tangentially orientated pocket facilitates pocket life that is three times longer than that of any other conventional selfgrip system. The robust clamping method enables machining at high feed rates and provides excellent straightness and surface finish characteristics, while the flat top configuration prevents chip obstructions under all possible machining conditions.

The JETCUT system incorporates ingeniously designed through coolant channels to deliver coolant close to the cutting edge, which improves chip formation and slashes flank and cratering rates.

When machining materials such as stainless steel or high temperature alloys, the temperature near the cutting edge area becomes extremely high. In addition, these material types tend to adhere to the tools cutting edge, causing built-up edge. These problematic phenomena can be moderated by targeting high pressure coolant directly to the cutting zone.

ISCAR maintains its unrelenting progress as a result of the company’s continuous development of innovative, high-quality products, based on the talented work of the company’s R&D Department and prompted by the evolving needs of global industry. This desire to provide customers with the very latest, most efficient metal cutting technology is reflected in the introduction of TANG-F-GRIP solutions to ISCAR’s comprehensive GRIP range of parting and grooving tools.

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 HSSEPM 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.

ECONOMICAL 14 CUTTING EDGES

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.

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.

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.

M Geometry
MM Geometry
ML Geometry

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.

NEW MULTI-MASTER FACE MILLING HEADS

ISCAR is introducing MULTI-MASTER solid carbide heads, designed for face milling applications that require small diameters. The new MM FM MULTI-MASTER solid carbide face milling heads are intended for face and shoulder milling in narrow and confined areas, as well as on small milling machines or mill-turn machine tools.

MM FM MULTI-MASTER milling heads are available in 12 to 25 mm diameters, featuring 6 flutes, 3.6 to 7.5 maximum milling depth, excellent surface finish and high tooth density, which enables very fast table feed. The milling heads can be used with all MULTI-MASTER adaptation options and are less expensive when compared to solid carbide endmills.

ISCAR recommends using the tools with a short overhang to achieve maximum stability, which influences surface finish and tool life.

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.

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.