October 1, 1999

5 Min Read
Machining equipment

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Machining equipment

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Turning machines

A single-spindle automatic turning machine is designed for applications requiring up to 13-mm-diam machining. With preliminary bar preparation, the DECO 2000 will also allow 16-mm diameters. Its software enables 50–100% faster computing speeds than previous models. The manufacturer has also introduced the MultiDECO 20/6 model, a multispindle offering 20-mm capacity with six spindles. It combines the flexibility of CNC with the speed of cam operation and is capable of managing 18 axes at one time. Tornos Technologies Corp., 70 Pocono Rd., Brookfield, CT 06804.

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Centerless grinder

Fine grinding capacities from 0.020 to 2.000 in. diam make a centerless grinder suitable for both small and large shops. The Model 310 uses the same size wheels and work blades as the model that it is replacing, but incorporates many of the product improvements and features found on the manufacturer's larger-capacity machines. It uses a 12-in.-diam, 4-in.-wide grinding wheel and features hydrodynamic grinding spindle bearings. These are located at each end of the spindle to provide rigidity and thereby ensure good workpiece accuracy and surface finish, as well as a long life. Monza Corp., 532 Rte. 15, Sparta, NJ 07871.

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CNC grinding machine

A CNC grinding machine is designed to automatically produce rotary burrs, end mills, router bits, drill bits, endodontic and surgical instruments, and other components for dental and medical applications. The compact (68 x 52 x 66½-in.) CNC 2005 grinds extremely complex part geometries in a variety of small diameters. It features five separate axes and a four-axis robot to pick and place blanks. According to the manufacturer, specific advantages of the machine include grinding accuracy, fast feed rates, and fast cycle times. Cutting Edge Technologies, P.O. Box 147, Bridgewater Corners, VT 05035.

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Milling and engraving system

A CNC milling and engraving system provides high-speed machining of plastics, aluminum, and other nonferrous materials. The CAT3D was developed specifically for the electronics marketplace, including medical electronics manufacturing. Its applications include rapid prototyping, front panels and membrane subpanels, enclosures, 3-D mold making, and machining intricate parts. Features include a 60,000-rpm spindle, an automatic tool-change unit with electronic tool length measurement, and an integrated coolant system. A Z-height sensor measures and compensates for irregular surfaces. This prevents surface scratching while providing exact cutting depths for milling and engraving on contoured surfaces, 3-D shapes, and cavities. Datron Dynamics, Haines Rd., Mississauga, ON L4Y 1 Y6, Canada.

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Die-sinking EDM

A die-sinking EDM uses Program Expert software systems and a numerical control capable of true multitasking. Program Expert automatically writes machine programs—from roughing to finishing—and selects the best technology for upcoming applications while the machine concurrently works on another project. Another software system, the Pilot Expert 3, is based on a novel method of spark analysis and provides unsupervised operation. It allows the system to continually self-adjust and avoid complications in the cut, which could cause increased machining time and dull the geometrical details of electrodes. Charmilles Technology Corp., 560 Bond St., Lincolnshire, IL 60069-4224.

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Speed lathes

Speed lathes are typically used for burr removal, polishing, and gauging. The Model LT-2A lathe is an efficient, compact solution for machine shops that produce precision parts in high volume. It features a heavy-duty, heat-treated aluminum T-slotted base to accommodate jobs that require a tool holder or special fixture. Its 1/3-hp motor delivers 50% more torque than the model it replaces. Dimensions are 24 x 14 x 18 in., and the weight is 79 lb, allowing the unit to be easily moved to an end station for finishing jobs. The unit also features a heavy-duty foot switch and dynamic braking. It is equipped with instant forward and reverse, eliminating downtime. Microfine tension adjustment allows instant chucking and release of parts. Overbeck Machine Tools, 329 Ingalls St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060.

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Programmable milling head

A five-axis programmable head attachment can be affixed to nearly any three-axis vertical or horizontal milling center to provide simultaneous five-axis machining and drilling capability economically. The heavy-duty solid-steel M5411 attachment uses the host machine's spindle drive and features precision Zerol bevel gears and Cone Drive worm gears for enhanced strength, accuracy, and long-lasting dependability. It can be installed in under 30 minutes and is compact enough to fit many small and midsized machines, measuring 8½ in. in diameter by 12 in. in length. The head offers a tilt range of ±90° and continuous 360° rotational capability. It runs with any five-axis-capable controller, five-axis-capable CAM software, and a five-axis Post Processor available through the manufacturer. Tri-Tech Precision Products Inc., 1577 Harmony Cir., Anaheim, CA 92807.

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Stent cutter

Many factors, including the degree of automation, cutting speed, and the time needed to convert a design into a cutting program, contribute to throughput in stent cutting. A stent cutter designed to address these factors features automated tub indexing, software for quickly converting designs to cutting programs, Laser Process Manager software for documenting process conditions, and a control system (System 94W/PC) that is network-ready to transfer stent-cutting programs to the laser cutting system. The laser is a high-repetition-rate pulsed Nd:YAG. Training and service programs are provided by the manufacturer. GSI Lumonics, 105 Schneider Rd., Kanata, ON, K2K 1Y3, Canada.


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