Featuring 24-bit color and 1-button menu, Glance v2.0 enables sales staff to provide prospects with enhanced communication experience by combining phone call with ability to present sales pitch or demo an application from any PC, Mac, or Linux computer. Prospects enter demos instantly from their own website, without having to download web conferencing software. Presentations can include any application, PowerPoint illustration, graphic art design, or 3D rendering.
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- Latest Release Adds Full Color and Even Faster Speeds to its Dependable
One-Button Sales Demo Tool
Arlington, Mass. - September 20, 2005 - Glance Networks, creators of the
"one-button simple" GlanceT screen sharing service, today announced version
2.0, which adds full 24-bit color, faster screen update speeds and easy customer website integration. Used primarily as a sales tool for hosting
instant web demos and presentations, Glance provides a quick and dependable
web demo service. It includes "Guests Connect for FreeT" flat-rate pricing
and the ability to connect instantly to nearly any PC, Mac or Linux computer
without downloading software.
"Simplicity and ease of use have been two challenges inhibiting mass
adoption of web conferencing," observes Mike Gotta, principal analyst,
Burton Group. "There's an underserved audience within this market that
simply wants to deliver a richer communication experience by combining a
phone call with the sharing of a screen. The ability to present a sales
pitch or demo an application should be a natural part of the conversation."
Sales professionals know they need to make every call count. A single
botched demo or presentation can cost them a sale. Whether showing a
software application, pitching a presentation, filling out a form or walking
through a website, sales people need a demo service that is as reliable as
their phone. Their ideal service would be:
oDependable - Their 9:00 a.m. demos need to start at 9:00 a.m., not 9:15
a.m. The service needs to connect the first time, every time.
oFast - Their prospects should enter demos instantly from their own website,
without wasting time downloading complicated web conferencing software.
oSimple - Their guests should be able to focus on the demo, without
distractions from unnecessary web conferencing buttons and menus.
"When we needed a simple, reliable sales tool to walk clients through a
demonstration of our software applications, we turned to Glance," commented
Steven Green, president at PollStream Inc., a direct response software
solution that makes it easy to engage customers in a two-way conversation.
"We tried other conferencing services with frustrating results, experiencing
technical problems with downloads and such. All we wanted was reliability
and ease of use at a reasonable price. Glance 2.0 fits the bill for quick
web demos and sales presentations."
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Reduce coolant costs with air tool chiller
ChillyBits, a new air chiller from Abanaki Corporation, is suitable for use in a range of industrial, fabrication, assembly and packaging processes. Designed to reduce the safety concerns associated with mist cooling, the air chiller can increase machining speeds by as much as 36 percent while extending tooling life by percent.
Compressed air is used for industrial spot cooling. According to the company, this eliminates mist coolants and heat-related parts growth. The product can also be used in milling, drilling, machining, grinding and sharpening operations. The portable model contains no moving parts and has an adjustable tip for precision airflow.
Compressed air is used for industrial spot cooling. According to the company, this eliminates mist coolants and heat-related parts growth. The product can also be used in milling, drilling, machining, grinding and sharpening operations. The portable model contains no moving parts and has an adjustable tip for precision airflow.
Virtual Machine Language
Virtual Machine Language (VML) is a mission-independent, reusable software system for programming for spacecraft operations. Features of VML include a rich set of data types, named functions, parameters, IF and WHILE control structures, polymorphism, and on-the-fly creation of spacecraft commands from calculated values. Spacecraft functions can be abstracted into named blocks that reside in files aboard the spacecraft. These named blocks accept parameters and execute in a repeatable fashion. The sizes of uplink products are minimized by the ability to call blocks that implement most of the command steps. This block approach also enables some autonomous operations aboard the spacecraft, such as aerobraking, telemetry conditional monitoring, and anomaly response, without developing autonomous flight software. Operators on the ground write blocks and command sequences in a concise, high-level, human-readable programming language (also called "VML"). A compiler translates the human-readable blocks and command sequences into binary files (the operations products). The flight portion of VML interprets the uplinked binary files. The ground subsystem of VML also includes an interactive sequence-execution tool hosted on workstations, which runs sequences at several thousand times real-time speed, affords debugging, and generates reports. This tool enables iterative development of blocks and sequences within times of the order of seconds.
This program was written by Christopher Grasso, Dennis Page, and Taifun O'Reilly with support from Ralph Fteichert, Patricia Lock, Imin Lin, Keith Naviaux, and John Sisino of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free online at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Software category.
This program was written by Christopher Grasso, Dennis Page, and Taifun O'Reilly with support from Ralph Fteichert, Patricia Lock, Imin Lin, Keith Naviaux, and John Sisino of Caltech for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. For further information, access the Technical Support Package (TSP) free online at www.techbriefs.com/tsp under the Software category.
Monday, December 25, 2006
Creating models and tool paths for CNC machining
With BobArt Pro-X from BobCAD-CAM, users can convert pictures or CAD drawings into 2D toolpath or embossed models for machining within Version 20 2D and 3D CAD/CAM software. The release is intended to assist manufacturers, including mold makers, in creating the appropriate model and tool path for CNC machining, from imported or designed images and CAD geometry.
Users can automatically convert a color, grayscale or black and white picture into a full relief model, says the company. The appropriate toolpath strategy can then be created on the fly. Added mirroring options are useful for creating negative relief models. In addition to this capability, users can form raster to vector operations to create 2D profile tool paths for carving or profile milling directly from pictures.
Once the toolpath is machined in the CAM sphere of the software, the cutting process can be simulated and verified prior to sending the program to the machine
Users can automatically convert a color, grayscale or black and white picture into a full relief model, says the company. The appropriate toolpath strategy can then be created on the fly. Added mirroring options are useful for creating negative relief models. In addition to this capability, users can form raster to vector operations to create 2D profile tool paths for carving or profile milling directly from pictures.
Once the toolpath is machined in the CAM sphere of the software, the cutting process can be simulated and verified prior to sending the program to the machine
Multi-use air powered abrasive belt machine
Dynabrade's Dynafile II air powered abrasive belt machine features a grinding head that pivots 360 degrees, making this tool especially useful for getting into hard-to-reach areas.
The machine features a 20,000-rpm direct-drive air motor that powers abrasive belts 1/4" to 3/4" x 18" long. The motor handle has a 7-degree pitch to help prevent wrist and arm fatigue. The tool features quick and easy abrasive belt change, interchangeable contact arms and trouble-free belt tracking, according to the company. The tool also has a thermal insulated housing, which prevents cold air transmission to the operator's hand while at the same time reducing tool vibration. Additionally, the air motor easily converts to a die grinder by adding a 1/4" collet or to an air drill by adding a chuck.
A versatility kit is also available. It includes the tool, an assortment of contact arms, abrasive belts and a 1/4" collet, all in a carrying case
The machine features a 20,000-rpm direct-drive air motor that powers abrasive belts 1/4" to 3/4" x 18" long. The motor handle has a 7-degree pitch to help prevent wrist and arm fatigue. The tool features quick and easy abrasive belt change, interchangeable contact arms and trouble-free belt tracking, according to the company. The tool also has a thermal insulated housing, which prevents cold air transmission to the operator's hand while at the same time reducing tool vibration. Additionally, the air motor easily converts to a die grinder by adding a 1/4" collet or to an air drill by adding a chuck.
A versatility kit is also available. It includes the tool, an assortment of contact arms, abrasive belts and a 1/4" collet, all in a carrying case
Sunday, December 24, 2006
How to machine "pure abrasion": powder metal is one of the most abrasive materials that a shop will encounter. The key to successfully machining this
Machining powder metal is like machining pure abrasion. So opines Charles Gerlach, president of Gerlach Machine. Located in St. Henry, Ohio, a small town landlocked by corn fields and quaint farm houses, Mr. Gerlach's shop has specialized in machining powder metal parts since the 1980s.
The soil in those nearby cornfields is loosely similar to powder metal, in that it is a mixture of nutrients and organic material that come together to provide the base for what farmers hope will be a bumper crop. Along those lines, powder metal parts are a mixture of tiny metal and alloying elements (think talcum powder tiny) that, after being compacted together and heated, form a near-net-shape component.
Unfortunately (for the powder metal molders, anyway), secondary machining operations are typically required to bring the part to its final form. At this stage, the powder metal part may have an apparent hardness rating that isn't very daunting in terms of machineability (30 Rc, for example). However, those individual powders retain their individual hardnesses--which could be 50 Rc or higher--yen after the part is molded. A tool cutting into such material will be slicing through very small, very hard particles--in essence, it's pure abrasion. The number of powder metal components finding their way into the latest automobile designs continues to rise. In fact, such components are now used in more high-profile engine and transmission applications. Though powder metal parts have become the darling of the auto industry, they can still be a demon for the shops that must machine the finishing touches.
Gerlach Machine didn't set out with the intention of specializing in powder metal machining. The shop's Midwestern location had a lot to do with it. A number of local powder metal molders approached the company 25 years ago to machine the features that couldn't be created in the molding process. Many of these early parts required only boring operations to bring IDs to tolerance or tapping operations, because threads can't be formed in the mold.
In many cases, the ODs of the powder metal part the shop machines are molded to net shape. This is why these materials are especially attractive for gear components, as the traditional hobbing process to form gear teeth is not necessary. The molded teeth can then be induction-hardened for wear resistance, while the core remains soft to reduce the chance of fracture during operation.
It is because of molding process limitations that other part features, such as threads, require secondary machining. While holes that are parallel to the axis of mold compression can be molded, cross holes (those perpendicular to the compression axis) and grooves around the periphery of the part can't be molded. There are also limits to how thin part walls can be molded. In addition, machining may be necessary to reach the tighter tolerances and better surface finishes that are required of the latest automotive components.
Tooling Considerations
Most powder metal parts require turning and tapping operations rather than milling, which is why Mr. Gerlach's shop has more CNC lathes than mills. Because powder metal parts are near net shape, heavy roughing cuts are typically not required. Appropriate tooling, therefore, is that which is geared toward semifinishing and finishing duties. For turning operations, Mr. Gerlach primarily uses cermet inserts from Valenite (Madison Heights, Michigan). These inserts have essentially no edge prep in order to provide an extremely sharp cutting edge and free cutting action, which Mr. Gerlach has found effective in turning powder metal parts.
In certain instances, powder metal parts will be hardened via heat treating or induction hardening prior to machining work. Parts that are induction-hardened may require a finish machining pass because the quality of the finished surface was altered. For these hardened parts, the shop is more likely to use cubic boron nitride (CBN) inserts that are typically used for most hard turning applications. Again, those CBN inserts have minimal edge prep, so that their cutting edge is as sharp as possible.
As for threading, the shop has settled on titanium nitride (TIN) coated taps, and it has machined threads without coolant for the past 20 years. It also tries to mill and turn dry, with some machines fitted with air blast units used more for chip control than to keep tool cutting edges cool. Machining without coolant means that chips remain dry and are less likely to adhere to the part after machining. But more importantly, dry machining reduces the possibility of rust forming on the parts after machining.
The soil in those nearby cornfields is loosely similar to powder metal, in that it is a mixture of nutrients and organic material that come together to provide the base for what farmers hope will be a bumper crop. Along those lines, powder metal parts are a mixture of tiny metal and alloying elements (think talcum powder tiny) that, after being compacted together and heated, form a near-net-shape component.
Unfortunately (for the powder metal molders, anyway), secondary machining operations are typically required to bring the part to its final form. At this stage, the powder metal part may have an apparent hardness rating that isn't very daunting in terms of machineability (30 Rc, for example). However, those individual powders retain their individual hardnesses--which could be 50 Rc or higher--yen after the part is molded. A tool cutting into such material will be slicing through very small, very hard particles--in essence, it's pure abrasion. The number of powder metal components finding their way into the latest automobile designs continues to rise. In fact, such components are now used in more high-profile engine and transmission applications. Though powder metal parts have become the darling of the auto industry, they can still be a demon for the shops that must machine the finishing touches.
Gerlach Machine didn't set out with the intention of specializing in powder metal machining. The shop's Midwestern location had a lot to do with it. A number of local powder metal molders approached the company 25 years ago to machine the features that couldn't be created in the molding process. Many of these early parts required only boring operations to bring IDs to tolerance or tapping operations, because threads can't be formed in the mold.
In many cases, the ODs of the powder metal part the shop machines are molded to net shape. This is why these materials are especially attractive for gear components, as the traditional hobbing process to form gear teeth is not necessary. The molded teeth can then be induction-hardened for wear resistance, while the core remains soft to reduce the chance of fracture during operation.
It is because of molding process limitations that other part features, such as threads, require secondary machining. While holes that are parallel to the axis of mold compression can be molded, cross holes (those perpendicular to the compression axis) and grooves around the periphery of the part can't be molded. There are also limits to how thin part walls can be molded. In addition, machining may be necessary to reach the tighter tolerances and better surface finishes that are required of the latest automotive components.
Tooling Considerations
Most powder metal parts require turning and tapping operations rather than milling, which is why Mr. Gerlach's shop has more CNC lathes than mills. Because powder metal parts are near net shape, heavy roughing cuts are typically not required. Appropriate tooling, therefore, is that which is geared toward semifinishing and finishing duties. For turning operations, Mr. Gerlach primarily uses cermet inserts from Valenite (Madison Heights, Michigan). These inserts have essentially no edge prep in order to provide an extremely sharp cutting edge and free cutting action, which Mr. Gerlach has found effective in turning powder metal parts.
In certain instances, powder metal parts will be hardened via heat treating or induction hardening prior to machining work. Parts that are induction-hardened may require a finish machining pass because the quality of the finished surface was altered. For these hardened parts, the shop is more likely to use cubic boron nitride (CBN) inserts that are typically used for most hard turning applications. Again, those CBN inserts have minimal edge prep, so that their cutting edge is as sharp as possible.
As for threading, the shop has settled on titanium nitride (TIN) coated taps, and it has machined threads without coolant for the past 20 years. It also tries to mill and turn dry, with some machines fitted with air blast units used more for chip control than to keep tool cutting edges cool. Machining without coolant means that chips remain dry and are less likely to adhere to the part after machining. But more importantly, dry machining reduces the possibility of rust forming on the parts after machining.
Job Sites, Machine Tool-Style - Brief Article
During the Internet Revolution, have you utilized the Web to help with your employmentneeds? Chances are, you have.
Sites such as Monster.com (www.monster.com), Hot Jobs (www.hotjobs.com) and others have redefined how many folks look for and interact with prospective employees or employers.
But something's missing from these new channels, particularly when they're utilized for the unique employment demands of a machining environment.
Go visit any of the "Job Exchanges" online and odds are you'll find them touting that they "currently house 'XXX,XXX' job postings" (or words to that effect). Translated, that means you'll have to wade through listings for numerous categories far from the manufacturing realm to find something close to your needs. Or not.
But there is hope. A few recent additions to the Web job site landscape focus on the machining industry exclusively, and they just might be worth a visit and a bookmark MetalIndustryJobs.com is actually three sites that serve vertical sectors of the machining world--Fabricating, Die/Mold and Screw Machining.
MachineToolJobs.com also offers machining-related job postings, but it offers its listings in subcategories, rather than as separate sites.
Each of these offers added specificity that metalworking job or employee seekers will find useful. And, over time, the tools, partnerships and applications these sites develop should improve their overall industry focus.
For job links and many others, visit www.mmsonline.com/links.
Job Shop Site Of The Month
Metalcraft Technologies, Inc. serves the aerospace industries by way of milling, fabricating, finishing, tool design and engineering support. Its Web site (www.metalcraft.net) delivers a depth of information about who the company is and how it does what it does. The navigation used within this site is creative and effective.
Sites such as Monster.com (www.monster.com), Hot Jobs (www.hotjobs.com) and others have redefined how many folks look for and interact with prospective employees or employers.
But something's missing from these new channels, particularly when they're utilized for the unique employment demands of a machining environment.
Go visit any of the "Job Exchanges" online and odds are you'll find them touting that they "currently house 'XXX,XXX' job postings" (or words to that effect). Translated, that means you'll have to wade through listings for numerous categories far from the manufacturing realm to find something close to your needs. Or not.
But there is hope. A few recent additions to the Web job site landscape focus on the machining industry exclusively, and they just might be worth a visit and a bookmark MetalIndustryJobs.com is actually three sites that serve vertical sectors of the machining world--Fabricating, Die/Mold and Screw Machining.
MachineToolJobs.com also offers machining-related job postings, but it offers its listings in subcategories, rather than as separate sites.
Each of these offers added specificity that metalworking job or employee seekers will find useful. And, over time, the tools, partnerships and applications these sites develop should improve their overall industry focus.
For job links and many others, visit www.mmsonline.com/links.
Job Shop Site Of The Month
Metalcraft Technologies, Inc. serves the aerospace industries by way of milling, fabricating, finishing, tool design and engineering support. Its Web site (www.metalcraft.net) delivers a depth of information about who the company is and how it does what it does. The navigation used within this site is creative and effective.
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Bundling With Machine Tools - Brief Article
The company has partnered with Servo Products Company for the bundling of SFP Express programming software with Servo's SAM, IMPACT and SERVO II machine tool product lines. With this software bundled with its machine tools, Servo's customers will have access to powerful shopfloor programming functionality at their machine tools, allowing them to realize greater efficiencies that significantly reduce cycle times and scrap.
SFP Express is an entry-level CNC programming and graphical editing system specialized for the shopfloor environment. The graphical user interface, specifically timed for the machinist, enables users to start making parts the same day they install the system. It includes features such as optimized geometry creation, graphical process verification and built-in training with step-through wizards to speed program creation and eliminate programming errors. Servo Products says SFP Express is a natural extension of its new Windows NT based CNC software
SFP Express is an entry-level CNC programming and graphical editing system specialized for the shopfloor environment. The graphical user interface, specifically timed for the machinist, enables users to start making parts the same day they install the system. It includes features such as optimized geometry creation, graphical process verification and built-in training with step-through wizards to speed program creation and eliminate programming errors. Servo Products says SFP Express is a natural extension of its new Windows NT based CNC software
Cylinder head porting on a turn/mill machine
CNC milling is the machining that an automotive cylinder head is likely to require. Turning is not a capability you would look for in a machine tool meant to run such a part.
Indeed, when Mazak (Florence, Kentucky) first started to work on a better machining process for the benefit of a maker of high-performance heads, the machine tool company's first attempt involved a five-axis machining center. But Robin Cave, national applications engineer for Mazak, says that a more capable and efficient process has now been developed for an Integrex machine.
"Integrex" is the company's brand name for a family of CNC turn/mill machines. The term is traditionally associated with multitasking lathes.
However, the machine tool proving effective at cylinder head porting is no lathe, says Mr. Cave. It's an "e"-series Integrex, and this distinction is significant. Earlier machines in the family have the slanting structure of a lathe, with the wedge-shaped work zone causing Y-axis travel to get progressively more limited toward the bottom of the machine. The e-series design gives the machine's milling spindle the freedom to move like a machining center can move, with a box-shaped work zone permitting the same full field of travel at the machine's top or bottom. The unit is still a turn/mill machine, but while the traditional Integrex might be thought of as a lathe effective for milling, the e-series version is essentially a machining center effective for turning.
The machine permits full five-axis milling. While B-axis motion comes from the tilting of the e-series machine's spindle head, C-axis motion comes from the rotation of the horizontal spindle used for turning. The maker of cylinder heads does no turning on this machine, but instead uses this turning spindle exclusively in the five-axis mode. This direct-driven rotation does not involve a worm gear, unlike a previous process in which the company used indexers on vertical machining centersThe milling cutter is a long-reach lollipop tool capable of cutting from various engagement angles along the inside of a complex channel. Mazak is working with cutting tool supplier Kennametal (Latrobe, Pennsylvania) to develop a diamond-coated version of this tool. The higher spindle speeds on the newer machine (relative to the previous process) will make it possible to use this tool productively. Comparison testing between coated and uncoated tooling in this application shows a clear improvement in finish. With a coated tool incorporated into the process, says Mr. Cave, it may be possible to perform this porting solely through CNC machining, without a subsequent need for finishing by hand
Indeed, when Mazak (Florence, Kentucky) first started to work on a better machining process for the benefit of a maker of high-performance heads, the machine tool company's first attempt involved a five-axis machining center. But Robin Cave, national applications engineer for Mazak, says that a more capable and efficient process has now been developed for an Integrex machine.
"Integrex" is the company's brand name for a family of CNC turn/mill machines. The term is traditionally associated with multitasking lathes.
However, the machine tool proving effective at cylinder head porting is no lathe, says Mr. Cave. It's an "e"-series Integrex, and this distinction is significant. Earlier machines in the family have the slanting structure of a lathe, with the wedge-shaped work zone causing Y-axis travel to get progressively more limited toward the bottom of the machine. The e-series design gives the machine's milling spindle the freedom to move like a machining center can move, with a box-shaped work zone permitting the same full field of travel at the machine's top or bottom. The unit is still a turn/mill machine, but while the traditional Integrex might be thought of as a lathe effective for milling, the e-series version is essentially a machining center effective for turning.
The machine permits full five-axis milling. While B-axis motion comes from the tilting of the e-series machine's spindle head, C-axis motion comes from the rotation of the horizontal spindle used for turning. The maker of cylinder heads does no turning on this machine, but instead uses this turning spindle exclusively in the five-axis mode. This direct-driven rotation does not involve a worm gear, unlike a previous process in which the company used indexers on vertical machining centersThe milling cutter is a long-reach lollipop tool capable of cutting from various engagement angles along the inside of a complex channel. Mazak is working with cutting tool supplier Kennametal (Latrobe, Pennsylvania) to develop a diamond-coated version of this tool. The higher spindle speeds on the newer machine (relative to the previous process) will make it possible to use this tool productively. Comparison testing between coated and uncoated tooling in this application shows a clear improvement in finish. With a coated tool incorporated into the process, says Mr. Cave, it may be possible to perform this porting solely through CNC machining, without a subsequent need for finishing by hand
Friday, December 22, 2006
Tool measurement system works inside grinder
Users can rapidly measure the shape, profile and outer diameter of a cutting tool while it is clamped in the grinding machine, then compare measurements to ideal tool geometry with ANCA's iView system. The benefit is that discrepancies can then be addressed immediately, without the need to remove the tool and measure off-machine. Measured data can be fed back into the grinding cycle for automatic compensation.
A cost-effective solution for high-precision tool measurements, the system includes software that works seamlessly with its machine operating software and a camera that mounts easily inside the tool and cutter grinder in less than 1 minute, the company says. It may be stored outside the machine when not in use. A single system can serve up to four grinding machines and has a standard magnification of 300:1. The accuracy of the system is 2 microns.
The system's software generates the ideal shape for standard tool geometries and protracts it over the actual tool image. It can import DXF overlay files for complex profiles. A high-visibility image of the ground tool as taken by the system's camera is compared to the ideal (as designed) overlay shape. Tolerance bandwidth can be specified and graphically displayed over the tool image. Automatic generation of tangent to the profile simplifies the measurement processSemiautomatic measurement mode means the tool overlay is automatically positioned over the corresponding point on the ground tool. The operator acknowledges the measured point, and the machine advances to the next predetermined point. A 0.005-mm grid or auto shadowgraph can be superimposed over the tool for measurement. Images can be stored in graphical file formats so they can be shared via e-mail. Measurement protocol can also be automatically generated and printed. The system can measure three-point angle; it also offers three-point radium measurement and two-point distance measurement.
A cost-effective solution for high-precision tool measurements, the system includes software that works seamlessly with its machine operating software and a camera that mounts easily inside the tool and cutter grinder in less than 1 minute, the company says. It may be stored outside the machine when not in use. A single system can serve up to four grinding machines and has a standard magnification of 300:1. The accuracy of the system is 2 microns.
The system's software generates the ideal shape for standard tool geometries and protracts it over the actual tool image. It can import DXF overlay files for complex profiles. A high-visibility image of the ground tool as taken by the system's camera is compared to the ideal (as designed) overlay shape. Tolerance bandwidth can be specified and graphically displayed over the tool image. Automatic generation of tangent to the profile simplifies the measurement processSemiautomatic measurement mode means the tool overlay is automatically positioned over the corresponding point on the ground tool. The operator acknowledges the measured point, and the machine advances to the next predetermined point. A 0.005-mm grid or auto shadowgraph can be superimposed over the tool for measurement. Images can be stored in graphical file formats so they can be shared via e-mail. Measurement protocol can also be automatically generated and printed. The system can measure three-point angle; it also offers three-point radium measurement and two-point distance measurement.
Cylinder head porting on a turn/mill machine
CNC milling is the machining that an automotive cylinder head is likely to require. Turning is not a capability you would look for in a machine tool meant to run such a part.
Indeed, when Mazak (Florence, Kentucky) first started to work on a better machining process for the benefit of a maker of high-performance heads, the machine tool company's first attempt involved a five-axis machining center. But Robin Cave, national applications engineer for Mazak, says that a more capable and efficient process has now been developed for an Integrex machine.
"Integrex" is the company's brand name for a family of CNC turn/mill machines. The term is traditionally associated with multitasking lathes.
However, the machine tool proving effective at cylinder head porting is no lathe, says Mr. Cave. It's an "e"-series Integrex, and this distinction is significant. Earlier machines in the family have the slanting structure of a lathe, with the wedge-shaped work zone causing Y-axis travel to get progressively more limited toward the bottom of the machine. The e-series design gives the machine's milling spindle the freedom to move like a machining center can move, with a box-shaped work zone permitting the same full field of travel at the machine's top or bottom. The unit is still a turn/mill machine, but while the traditional Integrex might be thought of as a lathe effective for milling, the e-series version is essentially a machining center effective for turning.
The machine permits full five-axis milling. While B-axis motion comes from the tilting of the e-series machine's spindle head, C-axis motion comes from the rotation of the horizontal spindle used for turning. The maker of cylinder heads does no turning on this machine, but instead uses this turning spindle exclusively in the five-axis mode. This direct-driven rotation does not involve a worm gear, unlike a previous process in which the company used indexers on vertical machining centersThe milling cutter is a long-reach lollipop tool capable of cutting from various engagement angles along the inside of a complex channel. Mazak is working with cutting tool supplier Kennametal (Latrobe, Pennsylvania) to develop a diamond-coated version of this tool. The higher spindle speeds on the newer machine (relative to the previous process) will make it possible to use this tool productively. Comparison testing between coated and uncoated tooling in this application shows a clear improvement in finish. With a coated tool incorporated into the process, says Mr. Cave, it may be possible to perform this porting solely through CNC machining, without a subsequent need for finishing by hand
Indeed, when Mazak (Florence, Kentucky) first started to work on a better machining process for the benefit of a maker of high-performance heads, the machine tool company's first attempt involved a five-axis machining center. But Robin Cave, national applications engineer for Mazak, says that a more capable and efficient process has now been developed for an Integrex machine.
"Integrex" is the company's brand name for a family of CNC turn/mill machines. The term is traditionally associated with multitasking lathes.
However, the machine tool proving effective at cylinder head porting is no lathe, says Mr. Cave. It's an "e"-series Integrex, and this distinction is significant. Earlier machines in the family have the slanting structure of a lathe, with the wedge-shaped work zone causing Y-axis travel to get progressively more limited toward the bottom of the machine. The e-series design gives the machine's milling spindle the freedom to move like a machining center can move, with a box-shaped work zone permitting the same full field of travel at the machine's top or bottom. The unit is still a turn/mill machine, but while the traditional Integrex might be thought of as a lathe effective for milling, the e-series version is essentially a machining center effective for turning.
The machine permits full five-axis milling. While B-axis motion comes from the tilting of the e-series machine's spindle head, C-axis motion comes from the rotation of the horizontal spindle used for turning. The maker of cylinder heads does no turning on this machine, but instead uses this turning spindle exclusively in the five-axis mode. This direct-driven rotation does not involve a worm gear, unlike a previous process in which the company used indexers on vertical machining centersThe milling cutter is a long-reach lollipop tool capable of cutting from various engagement angles along the inside of a complex channel. Mazak is working with cutting tool supplier Kennametal (Latrobe, Pennsylvania) to develop a diamond-coated version of this tool. The higher spindle speeds on the newer machine (relative to the previous process) will make it possible to use this tool productively. Comparison testing between coated and uncoated tooling in this application shows a clear improvement in finish. With a coated tool incorporated into the process, says Mr. Cave, it may be possible to perform this porting solely through CNC machining, without a subsequent need for finishing by hand
Machine Vision Software supports 3rd party cameras
Providing optical character recognition as well as security and data collection for achieving CFR Part 11 compliance, iNspect Vision Appliance software features 1D barcode and 2D matrix reader tools, including support for QR code. It is also equipped with iLabel product for verifying placement and quality of labels on packaged goods. Software offers machine vision solution for range of industries, from precision metrology to pharmaceutical packaging.
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STUTTGART, GERMANY (November 8, 2005) - ipd, a DALSA Coreco Group, today announced the release of Version 1.4 of the company's easy-to-use Vision Appliance software, iNspect. Packed with new capabilities, such as Optical Character Recognition (OCR), and advanced user controls, such as security and data collection for achieving CFR Part 11 compliance, iNspect offers an attractive machine vision solution to a broad range of industries, from precision metrology to pharmaceutical packaging.
"The evolution of our Vision Appliance software is very exciting. We are continually adding new features and capabilities without compromising the user interface that customers have come to appreciate," said Steve Geraghty, Director of ipd. "Version 1.4 demonstrates our commitment to bring simplified machine vision technology to ALL users. With iNspect now supporting 3rd party hardware platforms, such as IEEE 1394 cameras, users have an easy-to-use inspection tool with widespread applicability and a choice of hardware deployment options In addition to OCR, security and data collection tools, iNspect includes new and improved versions of its 1D barcode and 2D matrix reader tools, including support for QR code, along with many other features and enhancements. Furthermore, the iNspect software package now includes ipd's iLabel product, which was designed specifically for the Packaging Industry and is used for verifying the placement and quality of labels on packaged goods.
The iNspect product is offered as a standalone software package for use with 3rd party cameras, or combined with ipd's line of Vision Appliance hardware products. Pricing starts at $1,495.
More information about ipd and its product offerings-including Vision Appliances, NetSight II(TM) Vision Systems and Sherlock(TM) inspection software-can be found on the company
About ipd
ipd's mission is simple: to provide robust, intelligent and easy-to-use machine vision solutions to improve quality throughout the manufacturing process. Headquartered in Billerica, MA, ipd manufactures hardware and software machine vision products for end users, OEMs and systems integrators worldwide. ipd offers three product lines that simplify machine vision tasks: iNspect based vision appliances, Sherlock inspection software and the NetSight II family of pre-integrated machine vision systems. ipd is a group within DALSA Coreco (St. Laurent, Canada), a leader in the design and development of hardware and software for high-performance computer vision applications
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STUTTGART, GERMANY (November 8, 2005) - ipd, a DALSA Coreco Group, today announced the release of Version 1.4 of the company's easy-to-use Vision Appliance software, iNspect. Packed with new capabilities, such as Optical Character Recognition (OCR), and advanced user controls, such as security and data collection for achieving CFR Part 11 compliance, iNspect offers an attractive machine vision solution to a broad range of industries, from precision metrology to pharmaceutical packaging.
"The evolution of our Vision Appliance software is very exciting. We are continually adding new features and capabilities without compromising the user interface that customers have come to appreciate," said Steve Geraghty, Director of ipd. "Version 1.4 demonstrates our commitment to bring simplified machine vision technology to ALL users. With iNspect now supporting 3rd party hardware platforms, such as IEEE 1394 cameras, users have an easy-to-use inspection tool with widespread applicability and a choice of hardware deployment options In addition to OCR, security and data collection tools, iNspect includes new and improved versions of its 1D barcode and 2D matrix reader tools, including support for QR code, along with many other features and enhancements. Furthermore, the iNspect software package now includes ipd's iLabel product, which was designed specifically for the Packaging Industry and is used for verifying the placement and quality of labels on packaged goods.
The iNspect product is offered as a standalone software package for use with 3rd party cameras, or combined with ipd's line of Vision Appliance hardware products. Pricing starts at $1,495.
More information about ipd and its product offerings-including Vision Appliances, NetSight II(TM) Vision Systems and Sherlock(TM) inspection software-can be found on the company
About ipd
ipd's mission is simple: to provide robust, intelligent and easy-to-use machine vision solutions to improve quality throughout the manufacturing process. Headquartered in Billerica, MA, ipd manufactures hardware and software machine vision products for end users, OEMs and systems integrators worldwide. ipd offers three product lines that simplify machine vision tasks: iNspect based vision appliances, Sherlock inspection software and the NetSight II family of pre-integrated machine vision systems. ipd is a group within DALSA Coreco (St. Laurent, Canada), a leader in the design and development of hardware and software for high-performance computer vision applications
Thursday, December 21, 2006
A winner's view of the machine tool industry
Determination and technical ingenuity enabled Haas Automation to find a respected place in US manufacturing. In this exclusive article, the company's founder, Gene Haas, responds to questions from Manufacturing Engineering on the business
and technology of machine tools.
Manufacturing Engineering: What future do you see for North American manufacturers of machine tools? Gene Haas: If you look far into the future, you'll become very depressed over the situation facing American machine tool builders. Over the past 30 years, imports have gained a larger share of the market in the US every year. Currently they control around two-thirds. This is a very scary truth.
But automation can level the playing field. We've become successful by using our own product to reduce our production costs. As a result, we are not as sensitive to the high cost of labor as companies that use less automation. We've demonstrated that it's possible to build an entire machine in the US and be very successful.
We find it disappointing that so many US builders have trouble competing with imports. Some say they only import the iron and add the high-tech controls to it. Some say they only import the control and add the machine iron. But we-and a small number of other companies-have demonstrated that it's still possible to do it all. Unless this attitude spreads throughout manufacturing, the US machine tool builder may disappear.
ME: How much more consolidation do you expect to see in the machine tool industry in the US, Japan, and Europe?
Haas: The US machine tool industry is consolidating because small builders are having trouble surviving and the larger builders are trying to buy market share. This trend will continue as long as the US builders' market share is falling.
It's also true that consolidation is occurring across international boundaries. In the near future, it may be difficult to determine what country a builder is from, just as it's difficult today to tell where your car was built.
Because supply continues to be higher than demand, there will continue to be consolidation in the machine tool industry on all continents. Sustained over-supply is creating price pressures, and many machine tool builders are not profitable today. Even Southeast Asia isn't immune to this phenomenon. Consolidation is usually associated with shrinking. To survive, machine tool companies must become global and increase market share, so they can have the volume they need to make them price-competitive.
ME: Given the number of low-wage manufacturers in the world, how much manufacturing work will continue to be done in high-wage countries like the US?
Haas: The fact that machine builders in the US are in decline is probably closely related to the fact that manufacturing in general is leaving this country. It's a simple fact that it appears to be cheaper today to make most things outside of the US. The problem with this perception is that it's short-sighted.
We can only keep a great deal of manufacturing in this country by getting much smarter about the way we manufacture. As I said before, automation is the key to reducing manufacturing costs and thus keeping manufacturing here. Low wages affect areas where a great deal of labor is required. Replacing labor with automation wherever it's possible to do so reduces overall cost through labor savings, more consistent production, and better quality.
People in the United States must remember what wealth is and where it comes from. Wealth does not come from cooking hamburgers. Wealth does not come from cleaning one another's windows. Wealth consists primarily of "things." If we continue to import "things" we will, by definition, become less wealthy. At the same time, the nations who do manufacture things will become more valuable to our economy.
ME: How will the Internet change the way your company does business?
Haas: The Internet has already changed our business. We have online quote generation today, along with full product line and options information. We also use the Internet for service support. Software updates and automatic parameter checking can be done over the Internet. We fully expect this trend to continue and to involve sales, support, and service more and more. The Internet will become the universal information source. It will give our customers access to the information they need to make purchasing decisions.
ME: How will the role of your distributors change as more and more business is done via the Internet?
Haas: The role of our distributors is already changing. We have spent the last couple of years developing a common approach to the operations of our dealers. They already use the Internet for sales, service, and training. Ultimately, the distributors will become service organizations-not information sources. Because of the Internet, distributors will provide more technical support to their customers and less sales/information type support.
Machine tool basics--Part 1
This article series is not a comprehensive explanation of manufacturing equipment, but a once-over-lightly discussion of how the major chipmaking machine tools, and supporting elements function. We hope they will help two groups of people: The first consists of recent manufacturing engineering graduates who might need more information about the tools of their trade. The second group are those who have worked in nonmanufacturing fields, but are transferred to a position of responsibility in manufacturing, and find themselves challenged when it comes to knowledge of industry basics.
Turning, drilling, and milling are the three basic manufacturing techniques that use a tool to remove metal. Recently there has been a move to multitasking machine tools in which a single machine performs all three functions, plus grinding in some cases. These multifunction machines can work on a variety of parts and carry out more operations in a single setup. Despite this blurring of distinctions among machine tools the basic operations are still unchangedThis process uses the relative motion between a rotating, multiedge cutter and a workpiece to generate both flat and curved surfaces. During rotation, each tooth of the cutter alternately enters and leaves the cut, removing small amounts of material (chips). Called interrupted cutting, it results in more mechanical shock to the part and tool than occurs with continuous cutting, which is characteristic of turning.
Milling is done by a variety of machines. Simple stand-alone machines perform a minimal number of functions and are chiefly used in job shops. Machining centers have a wider variety of tools and sometimes have additional live spindles for drilling, turning, and even grinding. Milling functions can also be a major part of transfer lines. In these high-volume applications milling is often simple and repetitive.
The capabilities of a milling machine or machining center are measured by motor horsepower, maximum spindle speed, spindle taper size (which determines the size of the toolholder and tool), worktable size, and the amount of cutting tool travel.
Much toolmaking, prototype machining, and low-volume milling machining is done on small, lightweight, vertical spindle ram-type machines called knee mills. They are rarely used for production work.
This design includes a knee-and-column support for the machine table, hence the name, "knee mill." Base and column are one piece and the knee travels vertically on the column. The knee supports the saddle and table. The saddle moves in-and-out from the column, and the table moves side-to-side.
The ram atop the column supports the head and provides horizontal motion in-and-out from the column, parallel to the saddle movement.
At the front of the ram is the milling head, with motor, toolhead, speed-and-feed controls, quill, and spindle. The nonrotating quill holds the rotating spindle and allows the spindle to be fed on its own axis. Tilting the spindle axis allows milling or drilling at an angle to the table. Cutting tools are held in drill chucks or in collets, that are, in turn, held in the spindle, or mounted directly in the spindle.
On manual mills, the operator sets the machine parameters for each cut, positions the tool for the start of the cut, directs all of the machine's motions manually, and changes the settings and tools after each operation.
The two main types of machining centers are the vertical spindle machining center (VMC) and the horizontal spindle machining center (HMC). A third, less-- common type is the universal machine, which is capable of both vertical and horizontal spindle orientations.
Verticals may be preferred over HMCs when working primarily on a single work face. When a rotary table or indexer is added to the VMC machine table, more than one side of a workpiece or a multiple-part setup can be machined without operator intervention. Rotary devices either index the part to present a new work surface to the spindle, or they rotate it slowly, under full CNC control, while it's machined.
There are the three linear axes:
X defines side-to-side table motion,
Y defines in-and-out table motion,
Z defines head movement up and down the column,
B and C may be added as rotary axes, usually as a rotating spindle or mounting table.
T-slots in the machine table are still the primary means of holding work and workholding devices to a machining center table.
Because an HMC's spindle is orientated horizontally, it may be preferred for heavy, boxy parts. Chips fall out of the way better on a horizontal machine, and more workholding and automation options may be possible than on a vertical machine.
The HMC table typically rotates to expose four sides of the workpiece, or fixture, to the tools.
Tombstones, commonly used on HMCs, come in a wide variety of configurations to hold multiple parts. The part program is written to machine all parts on the tombstone before shuttling it out of the machine.
Turning, drilling, and milling are the three basic manufacturing techniques that use a tool to remove metal. Recently there has been a move to multitasking machine tools in which a single machine performs all three functions, plus grinding in some cases. These multifunction machines can work on a variety of parts and carry out more operations in a single setup. Despite this blurring of distinctions among machine tools the basic operations are still unchangedThis process uses the relative motion between a rotating, multiedge cutter and a workpiece to generate both flat and curved surfaces. During rotation, each tooth of the cutter alternately enters and leaves the cut, removing small amounts of material (chips). Called interrupted cutting, it results in more mechanical shock to the part and tool than occurs with continuous cutting, which is characteristic of turning.
Milling is done by a variety of machines. Simple stand-alone machines perform a minimal number of functions and are chiefly used in job shops. Machining centers have a wider variety of tools and sometimes have additional live spindles for drilling, turning, and even grinding. Milling functions can also be a major part of transfer lines. In these high-volume applications milling is often simple and repetitive.
The capabilities of a milling machine or machining center are measured by motor horsepower, maximum spindle speed, spindle taper size (which determines the size of the toolholder and tool), worktable size, and the amount of cutting tool travel.
Much toolmaking, prototype machining, and low-volume milling machining is done on small, lightweight, vertical spindle ram-type machines called knee mills. They are rarely used for production work.
This design includes a knee-and-column support for the machine table, hence the name, "knee mill." Base and column are one piece and the knee travels vertically on the column. The knee supports the saddle and table. The saddle moves in-and-out from the column, and the table moves side-to-side.
The ram atop the column supports the head and provides horizontal motion in-and-out from the column, parallel to the saddle movement.
At the front of the ram is the milling head, with motor, toolhead, speed-and-feed controls, quill, and spindle. The nonrotating quill holds the rotating spindle and allows the spindle to be fed on its own axis. Tilting the spindle axis allows milling or drilling at an angle to the table. Cutting tools are held in drill chucks or in collets, that are, in turn, held in the spindle, or mounted directly in the spindle.
On manual mills, the operator sets the machine parameters for each cut, positions the tool for the start of the cut, directs all of the machine's motions manually, and changes the settings and tools after each operation.
The two main types of machining centers are the vertical spindle machining center (VMC) and the horizontal spindle machining center (HMC). A third, less-- common type is the universal machine, which is capable of both vertical and horizontal spindle orientations.
Verticals may be preferred over HMCs when working primarily on a single work face. When a rotary table or indexer is added to the VMC machine table, more than one side of a workpiece or a multiple-part setup can be machined without operator intervention. Rotary devices either index the part to present a new work surface to the spindle, or they rotate it slowly, under full CNC control, while it's machined.
There are the three linear axes:
X defines side-to-side table motion,
Y defines in-and-out table motion,
Z defines head movement up and down the column,
B and C may be added as rotary axes, usually as a rotating spindle or mounting table.
T-slots in the machine table are still the primary means of holding work and workholding devices to a machining center table.
Because an HMC's spindle is orientated horizontally, it may be preferred for heavy, boxy parts. Chips fall out of the way better on a horizontal machine, and more workholding and automation options may be possible than on a vertical machine.
The HMC table typically rotates to expose four sides of the workpiece, or fixture, to the tools.
Tombstones, commonly used on HMCs, come in a wide variety of configurations to hold multiple parts. The part program is written to machine all parts on the tombstone before shuttling it out of the machine.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Machine Tools are available with VDI-driven units
Mazak Quick Turn Nexus, Super Quick Turn, and Multiplex-series machine tools are offered with self-contained VDI-driven units that enable multiple part processes such as milling, drilling, and turning on same part in one setup. Available with KM interface or ER collet style, units feature sealed spindle bearings, recessed spindle configuration, and through-coolant capabilities up to 1,500 psi. Tool setups can be pre-staged offline.
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(LATROBE, PA) - Self-contained VDI-driven units from Kennametal for Mazak Quick Turn Nexus, Super Quick Turn, and Multiplex-series machine tools enable multiple part processes such as milling, drilling, and turning on the same part in a single setup. Available with either the Kennametal KM interface or standard ER collet style, setups can be accomplished accurately and efficiently. Since the units make offsets known quantities, tool setups can even be pre-staged offline for greater productivity gains. As Product Manager Curtis Rellick succinctly puts it, "Less setup time, more spindle time."
Individual driven units are designed to work specifically with each model variation of the Mazak machine tools for maximum equipment capability. The units feature high-precision gears and sealed spindle bearings for smooth operation, and a recessed spindle configuration that reduces spindle stress and increases bearing life. High-quality seals and O-rings enhance protection against external contamination. Through-coolant capabilities of up to 1500 psi are available.The driven units increase rigidity by design, enabling higher spindle speeds and feeds and longer tool life. Product life averages of three years before repair or rebuilding are required, compared to nine to 12 months for other drive spindles. One customer described the advantages of a driven unit running a four-tooth, 1.57-in. face mill rough-cutting cast stainless steel at 600 SFM at a depth of 0.07 inches taking a full 1-inch width of cut. "Our maintenance personnel were frequently rebuilding competitive units due to bad gear backlash and blown spindles from the heavy interrupted cut," he says. "Despite the pounding the Kennametal unit takes, we have experienced better tool life, increased surface finishes, and no downtime with broken spindles/gears. That translates into productivity and dollars that go right to the bottom line."
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(LATROBE, PA) - Self-contained VDI-driven units from Kennametal for Mazak Quick Turn Nexus, Super Quick Turn, and Multiplex-series machine tools enable multiple part processes such as milling, drilling, and turning on the same part in a single setup. Available with either the Kennametal KM interface or standard ER collet style, setups can be accomplished accurately and efficiently. Since the units make offsets known quantities, tool setups can even be pre-staged offline for greater productivity gains. As Product Manager Curtis Rellick succinctly puts it, "Less setup time, more spindle time."
Individual driven units are designed to work specifically with each model variation of the Mazak machine tools for maximum equipment capability. The units feature high-precision gears and sealed spindle bearings for smooth operation, and a recessed spindle configuration that reduces spindle stress and increases bearing life. High-quality seals and O-rings enhance protection against external contamination. Through-coolant capabilities of up to 1500 psi are available.The driven units increase rigidity by design, enabling higher spindle speeds and feeds and longer tool life. Product life averages of three years before repair or rebuilding are required, compared to nine to 12 months for other drive spindles. One customer described the advantages of a driven unit running a four-tooth, 1.57-in. face mill rough-cutting cast stainless steel at 600 SFM at a depth of 0.07 inches taking a full 1-inch width of cut. "Our maintenance personnel were frequently rebuilding competitive units due to bad gear backlash and blown spindles from the heavy interrupted cut," he says. "Despite the pounding the Kennametal unit takes, we have experienced better tool life, increased surface finishes, and no downtime with broken spindles/gears. That translates into productivity and dollars that go right to the bottom line."
Machine tool consumption up 6% - Brief Article
CHICAGO -- U.S. machine tool consumption totaled $182.66 million in March, up 6 percent from a revised $172.32 million the previous month but down 42.2 percent from $315.8 million in March 2001, according to a joint report by the American Machine Tool Distributors' Association, Rockville, Md., and the Association for Manufacturing Technologies (AMT), McLean, Va. "The poor start to the 2002 machine tool market illustrates that the general economic recovery has not filtered down to manufacturing," said Don F. Carlson, AMT president. "While economic recoveries usually start without a pickup in investments in manufacturing, they never last without sustained manufacturing output." Machine tool consumption in the first quarter totaled $513.62 million, down 35.2 percent fromlast year
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Versatile Machine Tools
Okuma America Corporation is the US-based affiliate of Okuma Corporation, a world leader in the development of computer numeric controls (CNC) and machining technology, founded in 1898 in Nagoya, Japan.
Okuma is known for its technology leadership and world-class manufacturing, product quality, and dedication to customer service. Okuma products are used in the automotive industry, aerospace and defense, construction and farm equipment, energy, medical, mold and die, and fluidpower industries.
Machines include vertical and horizontal machining centers, lathes, double column machining centers, grinders, and wheel machines that offer users high throughput, high accuracy, and reliable solutions to production machining operations.
Using Mechatronics, our full-circle approach to equipment design, we build machines that have the exact balance of power, speed and size to meet most any application-machines that can hold tight tolerances, perform more sophisticated cuts, and create precision-crafted parts time and again.Okuma has entered into a partnership agreement with the National hot Rod Association and has been named Official Machine Tool Sponsor of the NHRA. This partnership is part of Okuma's High Performance Motorsports Industry program.
With Okuma as your machining partner you are free to imagine a more productive, cost-effective solution, knowing we can work together to make it happen.Okuma has entered into a partnership agreement with the National hot Rod Association and has been named Official Machine Tool Sponsor of the NHRA. This partnership is part of Okuma's High Performance Motorsports Industry program.
With Okuma as your machining partner you are free to imagine a more productive, cost-effective solution, knowing we can work together to make it happen.
Cutting Tool Supplier's Involvement Helps Security Systems Manufacturer Optimize Machining
Pelco (Clovis, California), the world's leading manufacturer of video security systems, is one firm that appreciates the value of involving key suppliers early on. When developing its important new stainless steel product, Pelco called in cutting tool supplier Seco-Carboloy.
The need for greater surveillance around ships, defense installations, power plants and other locations within the marine environment recently led Pelco to begin offering an explosion-proof pan-and-tilt video security system for marine applications. "Our product engineers had a conceptual idea of how to introduce the stainless steel product," explains Lolo Garza, machine shop manager at Pelco.
Daryl Serna, Seco-Carboloy Senior Technical Specialist says, "We came to the conclusion that machining the component from one large 316L stainless steel billet would be the most cost-efficient way to go."
Seco-Carboloy employed its perfoMAX indexable drills with T300D coated inserts, and boring bars using grade TP400 for finishing. The result was a reduction in total cycle time (from previous method) per module from twelve minutes to just threeErgonomic Tool cuts, crimps, and strips wire in one step
Designed for auto repair, PWCS9 features construction cold forged from alloy steel and heat-treated. Tool provides functionality for wire stripping, bolt cutting, and terminal crimping. It strips stranded wire from AWG 20-10 and solid wire from AWG 16-8. In addition to bi-molded, soft-grip handles, tool features narrow pliers tip, lock that maintains closed position during transport or storage, and internal spring that maintains open position during use.
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FUNCTIONAL DESIGN COMBINES ERGONOMICS AND VERSATILITY
KENOSHA, Wis., November 28, 2005 - In response to technicians' demands for a high-quality wire stripper/cutter/crimper that would better meet their needs for auto repair, Snap-on has introduced the PWCS9 wire stripper.
The PWCS9 is specifically designed to work on auto wiring and is cold forged from special alloy steel and heat-treated to offer technicians a tool of superior durability and lasting performance. An improvement from the traditional stamped units, the PWCS9's manufacturing process also helps maintain consistency from tool to tool, providing the same performance for every user. This wire stripper also helps technicians complete several tasks while using only one tool - wire stripping, bolt cutting and terminal crimping. These features allow the tool to strip stranded wire from AWG20 to 10, solid wire from AWG16 to 8, crimp insulated and non-insulated terminals, shear wires, and cut both no. 6 and no. 8 machine screws. The wire stripper also features:
- A narrow pliers tip for grabbing or pulling wire
- A lock to keep the tool in the closed position during transport or when it's in storage
- A patented internal spring that will keep the tool in the open, ready-to-use position when technicians need it handy
- Bi-molded, soft-grip handles that provide technicians greater comfort and decrease fatigue incurred from use
Customers can find out more about the Snap-on[R] PWCS9 wire stripper/cutter/crimper by contacting their local Snap-on representative, visiting www.snapon.com or calling toll free 877-SNAPON-2 (877-762-7662).
Snap-on Tools Company, LLC is a subsidiary of Snap-on Incorporated, a leading global developer, manufacturer and marketer of tool and equipment solutions for professional tool users. Product lines include hand and power tools, diagnostics and shop equipment, tool storage products, diagnostics software and other solutions for the transportation service, industrial, government, education, agricultural, and other commercial applications, including construction and electrical. Products are sold through its franchised dealer van, company-direct sales and distributor channels, as well as over the Internet at snapon.com. Founded in 1920, Snap-on is a $2 billion-plus, S&P 500 company headquartered in Kenosha, Wis., and employs approximately 11,400 people worldwide
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FUNCTIONAL DESIGN COMBINES ERGONOMICS AND VERSATILITY
KENOSHA, Wis., November 28, 2005 - In response to technicians' demands for a high-quality wire stripper/cutter/crimper that would better meet their needs for auto repair, Snap-on has introduced the PWCS9 wire stripper.
The PWCS9 is specifically designed to work on auto wiring and is cold forged from special alloy steel and heat-treated to offer technicians a tool of superior durability and lasting performance. An improvement from the traditional stamped units, the PWCS9's manufacturing process also helps maintain consistency from tool to tool, providing the same performance for every user. This wire stripper also helps technicians complete several tasks while using only one tool - wire stripping, bolt cutting and terminal crimping. These features allow the tool to strip stranded wire from AWG20 to 10, solid wire from AWG16 to 8, crimp insulated and non-insulated terminals, shear wires, and cut both no. 6 and no. 8 machine screws. The wire stripper also features:
- A narrow pliers tip for grabbing or pulling wire
- A lock to keep the tool in the closed position during transport or when it's in storage
- A patented internal spring that will keep the tool in the open, ready-to-use position when technicians need it handy
- Bi-molded, soft-grip handles that provide technicians greater comfort and decrease fatigue incurred from use
Customers can find out more about the Snap-on[R] PWCS9 wire stripper/cutter/crimper by contacting their local Snap-on representative, visiting www.snapon.com or calling toll free 877-SNAPON-2 (877-762-7662).
Snap-on Tools Company, LLC is a subsidiary of Snap-on Incorporated, a leading global developer, manufacturer and marketer of tool and equipment solutions for professional tool users. Product lines include hand and power tools, diagnostics and shop equipment, tool storage products, diagnostics software and other solutions for the transportation service, industrial, government, education, agricultural, and other commercial applications, including construction and electrical. Products are sold through its franchised dealer van, company-direct sales and distributor channels, as well as over the Internet at snapon.com. Founded in 1920, Snap-on is a $2 billion-plus, S&P 500 company headquartered in Kenosha, Wis., and employs approximately 11,400 people worldwide
Produce good surface finishes without tool breakage
Useful for die mold operations that require accuracy, short cycle times and good surface finishes, Makino's V-series vertical machining centers feature a 30,000-rpm spindle and compact footprint.
Machine rigidity and low vibration that result from the core-cooled spindle technology are said to make the machine particularly suited for high speed milling of deep ribs. Therefore, users can penetrate the part without tool breakage. In addition, benchwork on dies and molds can be virtually eliminated because of the quality of surface finishes, says the company.
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