Thursday, November 30, 2006
Conveyor division rebranded
Wire Belt Co has officially relaunched its conveyor division under the name of ConveyorTec for purposes of worldwide branding. The product range of Flex-Turn units, spreaders and convergers, product shuttles and straight conveyors remain of the same high design quality and product finish and are available through existing channels. The ConveyorTec name has been used for a number of years, principally in Germany to position the product range optimally in the conveying and processing market.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Ready set belt fasteners cut splicing time
Ready set staple conveyor-belt fasteners reduce installation time by more than 20 percent compared to conventional staple-attached, hinged-plate splicing in light/medium-duty applications.
Alligator Ready Set Staple conveyor-belt fasteners from Flexco reduce installation time by more than 20 percent compared to conventional staple-attached, hinged-plate splicing in light/medium-duty applications. Supplied as one-piece fastener strips complete with staples pre-inserted in each fastener's top plate, Ready Set Staple eliminates the time-consuming step of either loading a staple-dispenser or manually inserting loose staples into installation tools. Pre-inserted staples also ease maintenance, inventory and purchasing efforts - and help minimize installation errors - by eliminating the need to match staple sizes and quantities to the three standard fastener sizes.
Designed for belts from 1/16 -inch (1.5 mm) to 1/4 -inch (6.4 mm) thick and with mechanical fastener ratings up to 200 PIW (pounds per inch of width) (35kN/m), Ready Set fastener strips are simply fitted onto belt ends and secured in a special guide-block tool.
Hammer-applied, the high-tensile-strength staples penetrate the belt without severing vital carcass fibers and compress plates into belt covers for a tight, evenly distributed grip that resists comb-out, reduces belt fatigue at the point of penetration and ensures long splice life.
Low-profile hinged-plate design with extended reachback enables trouble-free operation under diverters, scrapers and skirtboards and around pulleys as small as 2 inches (50mm) in diameter.
Pre-assembled fastener strips for belt widths from 4-60 inches (100-1500mm) assure a straight, uniformly spaced splice.
Individual fastener plates are joined with breakaway bridges, allowing segments to be easily broken off to trim the strip for any specific belt width.
These separable connections also allow new splices to conform automatically to troughing idlers.
All Alligator Ready Set Staple fasteners are offered in plated steel or stainless steel, for extra resistance to abrasion, rust and corrosion.
Standard Ready Set Staple splice cartons contain all necessary components for four complete splices, including pre-assembled fastener strips and hinge pins.
Additional hinge pins and accessories may be ordered separately.
Alligator Ready Set Staple conveyor-belt fasteners from Flexco reduce installation time by more than 20 percent compared to conventional staple-attached, hinged-plate splicing in light/medium-duty applications. Supplied as one-piece fastener strips complete with staples pre-inserted in each fastener's top plate, Ready Set Staple eliminates the time-consuming step of either loading a staple-dispenser or manually inserting loose staples into installation tools. Pre-inserted staples also ease maintenance, inventory and purchasing efforts - and help minimize installation errors - by eliminating the need to match staple sizes and quantities to the three standard fastener sizes.
Designed for belts from 1/16 -inch (1.5 mm) to 1/4 -inch (6.4 mm) thick and with mechanical fastener ratings up to 200 PIW (pounds per inch of width) (35kN/m), Ready Set fastener strips are simply fitted onto belt ends and secured in a special guide-block tool.
Hammer-applied, the high-tensile-strength staples penetrate the belt without severing vital carcass fibers and compress plates into belt covers for a tight, evenly distributed grip that resists comb-out, reduces belt fatigue at the point of penetration and ensures long splice life.
Low-profile hinged-plate design with extended reachback enables trouble-free operation under diverters, scrapers and skirtboards and around pulleys as small as 2 inches (50mm) in diameter.
Pre-assembled fastener strips for belt widths from 4-60 inches (100-1500mm) assure a straight, uniformly spaced splice.
Individual fastener plates are joined with breakaway bridges, allowing segments to be easily broken off to trim the strip for any specific belt width.
These separable connections also allow new splices to conform automatically to troughing idlers.
All Alligator Ready Set Staple fasteners are offered in plated steel or stainless steel, for extra resistance to abrasion, rust and corrosion.
Standard Ready Set Staple splice cartons contain all necessary components for four complete splices, including pre-assembled fastener strips and hinge pins.
Additional hinge pins and accessories may be ordered separately.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Conveyors offer superior strength and capacity
Mk Profile Systems leading supplier of aluminium profiles for machine building and modular conveying systems have further developed their modular plastic slat conveying system SBF-P2000. The increased popularity of mk modular conveyors and their interchangeability with the mk modular aluminium framework system has been recently enhanced with many new profiles, conveyors and other innovations. The mk plastic slat chain conveyor SBF-P2000 uses standard plastic or steel slat chain but has a construction based on a robust 100X50mm solid profile, rather than the thin wall profiles more commonly used.
This together with the extensive use of machined solid wearstrip material gives the SBF-P200 conveyor a strength and capacity significantly higher than other similar systems.
The conveyor has now been developed further to encompass new conveyor widths in addition to the standard 100mm.
New widths of 130mm, 170mm, 205mm and 320mm are now available.
These new conveyor designs increase the physical capacity able to be transported and also reduce the need for multi lane installations, giving a wide slat capacity with a single conveyor thereby reducing costs significantly.
This together with the extensive use of machined solid wearstrip material gives the SBF-P200 conveyor a strength and capacity significantly higher than other similar systems.
The conveyor has now been developed further to encompass new conveyor widths in addition to the standard 100mm.
New widths of 130mm, 170mm, 205mm and 320mm are now available.
These new conveyor designs increase the physical capacity able to be transported and also reduce the need for multi lane installations, giving a wide slat capacity with a single conveyor thereby reducing costs significantly.
Monday, November 27, 2006
Manual/CNC lathe has large 104mm spindle bore
The vital statistic of the new XYZ ProTURN SLX 555 manual/CNC lathe is its large 104mm spindle bore. This, combined with a 560 mm swing over bed and a choice of 1000mm, 1750mm or 3000mm between centres, guarantees maximum flexibility, whether machining one-off components or in small batch production mode. However, it is not just the physical dimensions and structural integrity of the ProTURN SLX 555 that prompts XYZ Machine Tools to describe its new lathe as ideal for such applications.
With just a few hours training even someone with little or no CNC experience will be confident of producing complex parts, because the unique 'traking' feature of the ProtoTRAK SLX control ensures that the operator is always in control.
This feature allows the operator to physically wind the hand wheel and so to move the machine through the program at a speed proportional to the speed at which the hand wheel is moving.
Stop or reverse the hand wheel and the machine will do the same.
This allows the operator to check the programmed toolpath before switching to computer control, thereby avoiding collisions and boosting operator confidence.
Standard machine equipment includes a 300mm diameter three-jaw chuck, Dickson quick change toolpost with six holders, air-assist 'floating' tailstock, interlocked chuck and swarf guards, and joystick control for rapid movement.
The ProtoTRAK SLX control contributes constant surface speed, tool tip radius compensation and a host of other features.
With just a few hours training even someone with little or no CNC experience will be confident of producing complex parts, because the unique 'traking' feature of the ProtoTRAK SLX control ensures that the operator is always in control.
This feature allows the operator to physically wind the hand wheel and so to move the machine through the program at a speed proportional to the speed at which the hand wheel is moving.
Stop or reverse the hand wheel and the machine will do the same.
This allows the operator to check the programmed toolpath before switching to computer control, thereby avoiding collisions and boosting operator confidence.
Standard machine equipment includes a 300mm diameter three-jaw chuck, Dickson quick change toolpost with six holders, air-assist 'floating' tailstock, interlocked chuck and swarf guards, and joystick control for rapid movement.
The ProtoTRAK SLX control contributes constant surface speed, tool tip radius compensation and a host of other features.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Toolroom CNC lathe is powerful, flexible, simple
Toolroom Lathe has a proprietary conversational operating system that makes cutting parts and creating part programs nearly effortless, and operation ranges from manual to CNC.
With a functional range from manual turning to full CNC, the Haas TL-1 Toolroom Lathe features a proprietary conversational operating system that makes cutting parts and creating part programs nearly effortless. The operator chooses an operation, touches off the X and Z surfaces, and is then prompted to enter basic dimension information. Default values for feed per revolution, spindle speed and depth of cut are automatically entered by the control, but may be changed by the operator.
Once all necessary information is entered, a push of the Cycle Start button performs the desired operation.
A Recorder function allows information to be saved for future retrieval.
The TL-1 operates in four modes.
In all modes, the Haas control provides extremely accurate digital read-out (DRO) of position, displayed to 0.0005in when using the manual handwheels or to 0.0001in when using the electronic jog handle.
Electronic soft stops may be set to limit the travel of the lathe.
In manual mode, the X and Z axes are moved via standard handwheels.
In semi-automatic mode, the TL-1 performs simultaneous linear interpolation for both axes using a single handwheel.
ID/OD chamfers and tapers, for example, are easily cut in semi-automatic mode.
In automatic mode, built-in machining cycles (both single- and multi-pass) are available for rough and finish profiling, chamfering, grooving, parting off, threading, drilling and tapping.
In full CNC, the TL-1 is programmed using standard G code, and all axis motion is regulated by the Haas control via a G-code program.
Operations that would be difficult or impossible on a manual machine, such as radii, tapers, profiles, grooving, ID and OD threading, and rigid tapping, are all possible on the TL-1 - without knowledge of G-code programming.
Help menus are available directly on-screen, and a dry-run graphics feature allows operators to check their work before running a part.
MACH 2006 witnessed several new machines from Haas Automation, the largest CNC machine tool manufacturer in the world.
Haas demonstrated machines and metal cutting technology for aerospace, automotive, medical, mould and die and general machining industries.
More than 25 CNC technology products were on show demonstrate vertical and horizontal machining and turning applications.
With a functional range from manual turning to full CNC, the Haas TL-1 Toolroom Lathe features a proprietary conversational operating system that makes cutting parts and creating part programs nearly effortless. The operator chooses an operation, touches off the X and Z surfaces, and is then prompted to enter basic dimension information. Default values for feed per revolution, spindle speed and depth of cut are automatically entered by the control, but may be changed by the operator.
Once all necessary information is entered, a push of the Cycle Start button performs the desired operation.
A Recorder function allows information to be saved for future retrieval.
The TL-1 operates in four modes.
In all modes, the Haas control provides extremely accurate digital read-out (DRO) of position, displayed to 0.0005in when using the manual handwheels or to 0.0001in when using the electronic jog handle.
Electronic soft stops may be set to limit the travel of the lathe.
In manual mode, the X and Z axes are moved via standard handwheels.
In semi-automatic mode, the TL-1 performs simultaneous linear interpolation for both axes using a single handwheel.
ID/OD chamfers and tapers, for example, are easily cut in semi-automatic mode.
In automatic mode, built-in machining cycles (both single- and multi-pass) are available for rough and finish profiling, chamfering, grooving, parting off, threading, drilling and tapping.
In full CNC, the TL-1 is programmed using standard G code, and all axis motion is regulated by the Haas control via a G-code program.
Operations that would be difficult or impossible on a manual machine, such as radii, tapers, profiles, grooving, ID and OD threading, and rigid tapping, are all possible on the TL-1 - without knowledge of G-code programming.
Help menus are available directly on-screen, and a dry-run graphics feature allows operators to check their work before running a part.
MACH 2006 witnessed several new machines from Haas Automation, the largest CNC machine tool manufacturer in the world.
Haas demonstrated machines and metal cutting technology for aerospace, automotive, medical, mould and die and general machining industries.
More than 25 CNC technology products were on show demonstrate vertical and horizontal machining and turning applications.
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Budget-priced lathes and millers introduced
Manual machine tools remain a popular choice for training organisations and maintenance departments but price is always a constraining factor. With this in mind XYZ Machine Tools has added the budget priced e series of turret mills and lathes to its product portfolio. Sourced from China, prices start at GBP 4950 for the eMILL 2000 and the smallest of the three models of eTURN.
Despite their ultra low price tags, these machines are of solid ribbed cast iron construction and are fitted with European-sourced bearings and electrical components.
All have full CE approval and are backed by a UK company that has become synonymous with quality, reliability and value for money.
Standard on the 3HP eMILL 2000 is a dual speed range 60-4200 rev/min spindle, power feed to the 1270mm by 254mm table and two-axis digital readout.
Options include a 5000 rev/min inverter driven spindle, power feed to the cross slide and 3- or 4-axis digital readout.
The three models in the eTURN range - 1430, 2060 and 2680 - offer spindle speed ranges from 45-1800 rev/min to 26-2000 rev/min, a swing over the bed from 356mm to 660mm and a between centres distance from 750mm to 2000mm
Despite their ultra low price tags, these machines are of solid ribbed cast iron construction and are fitted with European-sourced bearings and electrical components.
All have full CE approval and are backed by a UK company that has become synonymous with quality, reliability and value for money.
Standard on the 3HP eMILL 2000 is a dual speed range 60-4200 rev/min spindle, power feed to the 1270mm by 254mm table and two-axis digital readout.
Options include a 5000 rev/min inverter driven spindle, power feed to the cross slide and 3- or 4-axis digital readout.
The three models in the eTURN range - 1430, 2060 and 2680 - offer spindle speed ranges from 45-1800 rev/min to 26-2000 rev/min, a swing over the bed from 356mm to 660mm and a between centres distance from 750mm to 2000mm
Friday, November 24, 2006
Precision CNC toolroom lathe works manually too
As technology advances toward miniaturization, machines and machine components get smaller and more efficient. Many shops are purchasing smaller-size lathes to produce these parts. Haas Automation's new compact HHLV-1 precision toolroom lathe is a perfect choice for producing high-quality small- to medium-sized parts without the expense of purchasing a larger machine.
The new HHLV-1 is a hybrid precision toolroom lathe that has a full CNC control, but can also be operated manually.
The distance between centers is 18in, and the cross-slide travel is 8in.
The machine has a part swing of 14in over the guide rail, with 6in over the cross slide.
For versatility, spindle speeds are infinitely variable from 0-3,000 rev/min, and the 5C collet nose accepts a variety of workholding options.
The HHLV-1 has a compact 77' x 32.5in footprint that occupies very little floor space, and the machine is slim enough to fit through a standard 36in doorway.
Haas Automation designed the HHLV-1 to be easy to use and efficient.
A No 3 Morse-taper tailstock and 10-gallon coolant tank are standard equipment.
The heavy steel base includes a utility cabinet with a built-in tooling rack, utility shelf and plenty of room for storage.
The cabinet also allows easy access to the coolant tank.
Options for the HHLV-1 include 4in and 5in 3-jaw chucks, a cam-lock tool post for 1/2in tooling, a steady rest and an 8-station automatic tool turret.
The famous Haas CNC control makes the HHLV-1 easy to program and operate, even for beginners.
Its bright, color LCD display and thoughtful keyboard layout make it a pleasure to use.
The machine comes standard with the Haas Intuitive Programming System, a conversational operating system that guides the operator through basic CNC operations - from initial set up to pressing the Cycle Start button.
You don't have to know G-code to cut make parts, and that makes it one of the most user-friendly CNC controls in the industry.
In manual mode, the standard handwheels and precise digital readout ensure high accuracy and ease of operation.
Manual machinists will be making parts almost immediately.
The tough HHLV-1 is a small, high-precision CNC lathe that incorporates the design philosophy and high quality that make Haas the largest machine-tool manufacturer in North America.
And because it's built in the USA by Haas, it's backed by the worldwide Haas Factory Outlet network of support and service.
* Haas Automation at IMTS 2006, Chicago, USA, September 6-13, South Hall, Booth A8000.
The new HHLV-1 is a hybrid precision toolroom lathe that has a full CNC control, but can also be operated manually.
The distance between centers is 18in, and the cross-slide travel is 8in.
The machine has a part swing of 14in over the guide rail, with 6in over the cross slide.
For versatility, spindle speeds are infinitely variable from 0-3,000 rev/min, and the 5C collet nose accepts a variety of workholding options.
The HHLV-1 has a compact 77' x 32.5in footprint that occupies very little floor space, and the machine is slim enough to fit through a standard 36in doorway.
Haas Automation designed the HHLV-1 to be easy to use and efficient.
A No 3 Morse-taper tailstock and 10-gallon coolant tank are standard equipment.
The heavy steel base includes a utility cabinet with a built-in tooling rack, utility shelf and plenty of room for storage.
The cabinet also allows easy access to the coolant tank.
Options for the HHLV-1 include 4in and 5in 3-jaw chucks, a cam-lock tool post for 1/2in tooling, a steady rest and an 8-station automatic tool turret.
The famous Haas CNC control makes the HHLV-1 easy to program and operate, even for beginners.
Its bright, color LCD display and thoughtful keyboard layout make it a pleasure to use.
The machine comes standard with the Haas Intuitive Programming System, a conversational operating system that guides the operator through basic CNC operations - from initial set up to pressing the Cycle Start button.
You don't have to know G-code to cut make parts, and that makes it one of the most user-friendly CNC controls in the industry.
In manual mode, the standard handwheels and precise digital readout ensure high accuracy and ease of operation.
Manual machinists will be making parts almost immediately.
The tough HHLV-1 is a small, high-precision CNC lathe that incorporates the design philosophy and high quality that make Haas the largest machine-tool manufacturer in North America.
And because it's built in the USA by Haas, it's backed by the worldwide Haas Factory Outlet network of support and service.
* Haas Automation at IMTS 2006, Chicago, USA, September 6-13, South Hall, Booth A8000.
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Instrument makers' lathe has sensitive feed
A compact clock, watch and instrument makers lathe accepting the 8mm horological collets in both headstock and tailstock spindles. Constructed from cast iron and steel, individually built and issued with an Engineers Test Certificate, the 90 CW is mounted on a cast aluminium base with integral thyristor speed control and is a portable unit. * Lathe bed - a one piece massive iron casting of cantilever form ground on all faces.
The bed has a central tee slot providing a positive and accurate location for the tailstock, incorporating a gap permitting the accommodation of large diameter clock wheels, total swing is 120mm (4.7in), the bed is in dovetail form.
* Saddle and slides - the cast iron saddle can be rapidly or sensitively traversed via the saddle lever feed (a leadscrew can be fitted if preferred).
A long tee slotted steel crosslide permits the mounting of accessories such as the Jacot (RG59) unit or Roller (RG53) filing rest, for example.
The crosslide has an etched angular scale 45-0-45 deg and carries the swivelling topslide to permit taper turning.
A quick change height adjustable tool holder is fitted.
All slides are fitted with full length adjustable gib strips.
Handwheels are steel and incorporate laser etched, re-set to zero calibration dials, clearly marked and graduated in 0.025mm increments.
* Tailstock - the tailstock is cast iron, bored and honed to accommodate the hardened ground steel barrel.
The barrel accepts the 8mm horological collet, which is secured in the conventional manner with a draw-in bar.
The barrel is lever fed to facilitate high sensitivity drilling.
Locking handles are fitted to both body and barrel.
The tailstock may be off-set for the turning of long and shallow tapers.
The bed has a central tee slot providing a positive and accurate location for the tailstock, incorporating a gap permitting the accommodation of large diameter clock wheels, total swing is 120mm (4.7in), the bed is in dovetail form.
* Saddle and slides - the cast iron saddle can be rapidly or sensitively traversed via the saddle lever feed (a leadscrew can be fitted if preferred).
A long tee slotted steel crosslide permits the mounting of accessories such as the Jacot (RG59) unit or Roller (RG53) filing rest, for example.
The crosslide has an etched angular scale 45-0-45 deg and carries the swivelling topslide to permit taper turning.
A quick change height adjustable tool holder is fitted.
All slides are fitted with full length adjustable gib strips.
Handwheels are steel and incorporate laser etched, re-set to zero calibration dials, clearly marked and graduated in 0.025mm increments.
* Tailstock - the tailstock is cast iron, bored and honed to accommodate the hardened ground steel barrel.
The barrel accepts the 8mm horological collet, which is secured in the conventional manner with a draw-in bar.
The barrel is lever fed to facilitate high sensitivity drilling.
Locking handles are fitted to both body and barrel.
The tailstock may be off-set for the turning of long and shallow tapers.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Turning can be manual, electronic or CNC
Combination' or 'half-NC' lathes combine conventional turning, electronic cycle turning and full CNC turning in one machine and the user needs no CNC training to use electronic turning cycles.
Centre lathe turning has progressed at an impressive rate since the conception of electronics, driving axis and spindles, and computer driven programming. The Ajax Evolution range of machines, combines all the virtues of conventional turning, electronic cycle turning and full CNC turning all in one machine. The Ajax Evolution machines can be used as a manual lathe by using the electronic handwheels and axis joy stick, the control is used as a simple DRO measuring system.
For the 'one-offs' and small batch production the Ajax Evolution can be programmed, using the flexible electronic turning cycles, its quick, its convenient and you do not have to be CNC trained to use the electronic cycles.
You can produce tapers, radii, grooving, multi point profiles and screwcutting by answering simple questions direct from the Fanuc screen.
These electronic cycles can then be linked together to give a complete electronic programme.
For complicated shapes and batch production, full ISO programming on the Fanuc Oi Turn Mate control is possible.
The Ajax Evolution machines include fully enclosed guarding, meeting CE regulations, automatic four-way indexing toolpost, automatic speed range change and new Fanuc touch screen control and monitor on sliding pendant.
Machine programs can be up and downloaded through the RS232 port or saved directly to the PMCIA card.
The range starts at 165mm centre height to 325mm centre height, with bed lengths varying from 750mm to 5000mm, spindle speeds vary for sizes of machines but all have CSS fitted as standard.
Centre lathe turning has progressed at an impressive rate since the conception of electronics, driving axis and spindles, and computer driven programming. The Ajax Evolution range of machines, combines all the virtues of conventional turning, electronic cycle turning and full CNC turning all in one machine. The Ajax Evolution machines can be used as a manual lathe by using the electronic handwheels and axis joy stick, the control is used as a simple DRO measuring system.
For the 'one-offs' and small batch production the Ajax Evolution can be programmed, using the flexible electronic turning cycles, its quick, its convenient and you do not have to be CNC trained to use the electronic cycles.
You can produce tapers, radii, grooving, multi point profiles and screwcutting by answering simple questions direct from the Fanuc screen.
These electronic cycles can then be linked together to give a complete electronic programme.
For complicated shapes and batch production, full ISO programming on the Fanuc Oi Turn Mate control is possible.
The Ajax Evolution machines include fully enclosed guarding, meeting CE regulations, automatic four-way indexing toolpost, automatic speed range change and new Fanuc touch screen control and monitor on sliding pendant.
Machine programs can be up and downloaded through the RS232 port or saved directly to the PMCIA card.
The range starts at 165mm centre height to 325mm centre height, with bed lengths varying from 750mm to 5000mm, spindle speeds vary for sizes of machines but all have CSS fitted as standard.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Operations software boosts manual/CNC lathe usage
'Operations Link' software offers operators of manual/CNC 'combination' lathes further important advantages in time-saving, automatic linking of operating cycles and workshop efficiency.
British lathe specialist T S Harrison has significantly enhanced its successful Alpha XT Manual/CNC lathe range with the introduction of 'Operations Link' software, which now offers operators further important advantages in time-saving, automatic linking of operating cycles and workshop efficiency. Technical designers at Harrison, part of the internationally-renowned 600 Group machine tools company based at Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire, have worked closely with the market-leading control systems provider, G E Fanuc, to develop this new software. 'Operations Link' will be incorporated on all newly-supplied Alpha XT machines.
It is also being offered to existing Harrison XT customers free of charge as an easily-installed update.
The four-version Alpha XT range (XT 1350, XT 1400, XT 1460 and XT 1550), is equipped with Fanuc's latest Oi TC Mate control which enables no fewer than 40 advanced, individual machining cycles to be programmed and stored, using the system's Fanuc TurnMate i conversational shop floor programming.
Now, thanks to the launch of 'Operations Link' these cycles can be linked together to create a fully-automatic and continuous machining sequence from start to end, without the need for the lathe operator to tend the machine or switch between cycles.
Philip Stockdale, technical support engineer at T S Harrison, said: 'The early versions of the Alpha XT required the operator to complete each operation and then move from one cycle to the next.
For example you might want to create cycles for a facing operation, followed by a rough and finish turning cycle, and then a threading cycle.' He said: 'Fanuc and Harrison engineers have created the ability to link together these separate operations to produce a complete program, which operates the whole sequence completely automatically with just one press of a button which makes it more like a CNC machine.' The second major benefit of 'Operations Link' is that multi-cycle programs can be transferred via a memory card and stored on a PC for future use - or, crucially, for off-line programming/simulation of complex parts and safety-checking prior to machining.
Furthermore, up to five of these complete programs can be stored on the Alpha XT's Oi Mate control itself, for maximum operating flexibility.
Stockdale explained: 'For small to medium numbers of turned components, the new software speeds up the all-important 'floor-to-floor' time, especially when the Alpha XT lathes are used with the multi-station tool turret.
For these types of turning operations, the quicker and easier it is to complete the machining, the better and more cost-effective it becomes for the toolroom.' He added: 'There are also important benefits in programming time, because large numbers of complete turning programs can be stored.
Operators can create a directory of complete programs on their PCs, which can be downloaded onto the lathe again and again.' As well as Fanuc TurnMate i conversational programming, the advanced Alpha XT lathe range features the ability to switch to full ISO (CNC) functionality.
All Alpha XT customers also receive Harrison's 'Alphalink' CAD/CAM software which is a fully Windows-compatible system for flexible off-line programming.
Harrison is the only lathe manufacturer to provide CAD/CAM free of charge to all customers.
British lathe specialist T S Harrison has significantly enhanced its successful Alpha XT Manual/CNC lathe range with the introduction of 'Operations Link' software, which now offers operators further important advantages in time-saving, automatic linking of operating cycles and workshop efficiency. Technical designers at Harrison, part of the internationally-renowned 600 Group machine tools company based at Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire, have worked closely with the market-leading control systems provider, G E Fanuc, to develop this new software. 'Operations Link' will be incorporated on all newly-supplied Alpha XT machines.
It is also being offered to existing Harrison XT customers free of charge as an easily-installed update.
The four-version Alpha XT range (XT 1350, XT 1400, XT 1460 and XT 1550), is equipped with Fanuc's latest Oi TC Mate control which enables no fewer than 40 advanced, individual machining cycles to be programmed and stored, using the system's Fanuc TurnMate i conversational shop floor programming.
Now, thanks to the launch of 'Operations Link' these cycles can be linked together to create a fully-automatic and continuous machining sequence from start to end, without the need for the lathe operator to tend the machine or switch between cycles.
Philip Stockdale, technical support engineer at T S Harrison, said: 'The early versions of the Alpha XT required the operator to complete each operation and then move from one cycle to the next.
For example you might want to create cycles for a facing operation, followed by a rough and finish turning cycle, and then a threading cycle.' He said: 'Fanuc and Harrison engineers have created the ability to link together these separate operations to produce a complete program, which operates the whole sequence completely automatically with just one press of a button which makes it more like a CNC machine.' The second major benefit of 'Operations Link' is that multi-cycle programs can be transferred via a memory card and stored on a PC for future use - or, crucially, for off-line programming/simulation of complex parts and safety-checking prior to machining.
Furthermore, up to five of these complete programs can be stored on the Alpha XT's Oi Mate control itself, for maximum operating flexibility.
Stockdale explained: 'For small to medium numbers of turned components, the new software speeds up the all-important 'floor-to-floor' time, especially when the Alpha XT lathes are used with the multi-station tool turret.
For these types of turning operations, the quicker and easier it is to complete the machining, the better and more cost-effective it becomes for the toolroom.' He added: 'There are also important benefits in programming time, because large numbers of complete turning programs can be stored.
Operators can create a directory of complete programs on their PCs, which can be downloaded onto the lathe again and again.' As well as Fanuc TurnMate i conversational programming, the advanced Alpha XT lathe range features the ability to switch to full ISO (CNC) functionality.
All Alpha XT customers also receive Harrison's 'Alphalink' CAD/CAM software which is a fully Windows-compatible system for flexible off-line programming.
Harrison is the only lathe manufacturer to provide CAD/CAM free of charge to all customers.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Mill-turn centre has rapid-motion feeds
Mill-turn centre has very stiff Y-axis A high-performance mill-turn centre features an extremely stiff Y-axis featuring wide-set guide rails and also very fast rapid-motion speeds.
Fitted with a counter spindle, driven tools, a high-precision C-axis and very fast rapid-motion speeds, the Maxxturn 45 offers everything the customer needs to manufacture complex turned and milled parts, not only in high quality, but also cost effective. A very special highlight of the new Maxxturn 45 is the Y-axis. It has been integrated into the machine structure and stands on extremely wide-set guide rails.
This ensures extreme stiffness and top precision, even when performing difficult cutting tasks.
Additionally, the machine has a very large travel, which also increases the number of machining options when turning and milling.
The Maxxturn 45 is available with either a Siemens or Fanuc control unit - SHOPTURN or Manual Guide are standard equipment.
* Tailored automation - as with all Emco machines, there are of course perfectly customised automation fittings for the Maxxturn 45 too.
There is a Swing Loader for automatic loading and feeding out.
For bar work, there are three different bar loaders on offer: a classical 3m loader, the Emco short-bar loader LM800 for limited floor space and the CompactLoad E45.
The latter is on offer in a package with the Maxxturn 45 at an unbeatable discount price.
Machine details include the following.
* Maximum bar diameter - 45mm.
* Maximum part length - 480mm.
* Maximum part diameter - 300mm.
* Travel in X/Z/Y - 160/510/ +40/-30mm.
* Maximum lining diameter HS/GS - 200/130mm.
Fitted with a counter spindle, driven tools, a high-precision C-axis and very fast rapid-motion speeds, the Maxxturn 45 offers everything the customer needs to manufacture complex turned and milled parts, not only in high quality, but also cost effective. A very special highlight of the new Maxxturn 45 is the Y-axis. It has been integrated into the machine structure and stands on extremely wide-set guide rails.
This ensures extreme stiffness and top precision, even when performing difficult cutting tasks.
Additionally, the machine has a very large travel, which also increases the number of machining options when turning and milling.
The Maxxturn 45 is available with either a Siemens or Fanuc control unit - SHOPTURN or Manual Guide are standard equipment.
* Tailored automation - as with all Emco machines, there are of course perfectly customised automation fittings for the Maxxturn 45 too.
There is a Swing Loader for automatic loading and feeding out.
For bar work, there are three different bar loaders on offer: a classical 3m loader, the Emco short-bar loader LM800 for limited floor space and the CompactLoad E45.
The latter is on offer in a package with the Maxxturn 45 at an unbeatable discount price.
Machine details include the following.
* Maximum bar diameter - 45mm.
* Maximum part length - 480mm.
* Maximum part diameter - 300mm.
* Travel in X/Z/Y - 160/510/ +40/-30mm.
* Maximum lining diameter HS/GS - 200/130mm.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Vibratory feeder for fragile sintered 'e' cores
Elscint Automation has developed a unique Vibratory bowl feeder for feeding of Sintered 'E' Cores. Mr Monish Shete, Director of Elscint Automation informs that these 'E' Cores are fragile and a fall from the top of the Bowl can break them. Therefore, he states that Elscint Automation uses a special type of Elscinthane PU Lining with extra thickness.
He further explains that the Bowl is designed in such a manner that the possibility of a fall is reduced if not eliminated.
If the components do fall during orientation, the fall is contained by specially designed flaps.
The total system consists of an Elscint Conveyor Feeder ahead of the Vibratory Bowl Feeder on which the 'E' Cores are passed and while they pass, the top portion is printed with a printing head.
This system works at 100 Pieces per minute and has resulted in completion of printing jobs at the customers end in just 4 hours which uptill now used to take more than 12 hours manually.
These and other innovative application ideas are possible by interacting with the qualified Application Engineers from Elscint Automation, who are more than eager to help you in your feeding requirements.
He further explains that the Bowl is designed in such a manner that the possibility of a fall is reduced if not eliminated.
If the components do fall during orientation, the fall is contained by specially designed flaps.
The total system consists of an Elscint Conveyor Feeder ahead of the Vibratory Bowl Feeder on which the 'E' Cores are passed and while they pass, the top portion is printed with a printing head.
This system works at 100 Pieces per minute and has resulted in completion of printing jobs at the customers end in just 4 hours which uptill now used to take more than 12 hours manually.
These and other innovative application ideas are possible by interacting with the qualified Application Engineers from Elscint Automation, who are more than eager to help you in your feeding requirements.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
'Ageism' does not enter CNC equation at Hone-All
Age doesn't enter into the equation at this honingsub-contractor, whose senior machinist quickly took control ofnew CNC machine tools, acquired to expand machining capabilities.Age doesn't enter into the equation at sub-contractorHone-All Precision. Enthusiasm and commitment are the qualitiesthis precision machining specialist looks for when recruiting,and machinist Roger Ayers, while cheerfully admitting to beingeligible for his bus pass, fits the bill precisely. He joined theDunstable-based company a year or so ago as a highly skilledmiller whose 45 years' experience had been gained on manualmachines.
Since then, encouraged by managing director ColinRodney and co-director Andrea Rodney, he has progressed to CNC,and has also added turning to his skills set.
It's part ofwhat the two directors describe as a multi-skilled approach tothe business of providing a single source capability.
Althoughwell known for its honing, deep hole drilling and boringexpertise, the past two to three years have seen Hone-AllPrecision expand its machining and project management capability.The result is an ISO 9001-2000 accredited business capable ofmachining components in virtually any material up to three metresin length to the highest quality standards and within onefacility.
Part of the GBP 0.5 million investment to date has beenin two new machines from XYZ Machine Tools.
These are a3HP/2.25kW Edge 2000 manual/CNC mill equipped with the innovativePrototrak control and a centre lathe equipped with a Newall C70digital readout, both of which Roger Ayers uses for intricateprototype work.
The turret mill has a table work surface of1270mm by 254mm and X, Y and Z travels of 762mm, 406mm and 406mmrespectively, while the 7.5HP/5.6kW XYZ 1550 lathe provides a390mm swing over the bed and 1250mm between centres.
ThePrototrak control's question and answer format has provedparticularly helpful, because it has enabled skilled machinistssuch as Ayers as well as younger trainees to adapt quickly toCNC, with both machines playing their part in Hone-AllPrecision's continuous improvement programme.
'Beforewe bought the XYZ mill some nine months ago we were doingone-offs on our machining centre and holding up production workas a result,' says Andrea Rodney.
'So we began lookingfor a machine that would be easy to set-up and operate, but onethat could also be used in our in-house training programme.
Wehad good reports about these machines from customers and have notbeen disappointed.
We freed up the machining centre and havesince taken on more prototype work because we can turn the workround more quickly.
Much the same has happened with the newlathe: as well as one-offs it does all the preparation work forthe smaller gundrills, freeing up much-needed capacity.
Since then, encouraged by managing director ColinRodney and co-director Andrea Rodney, he has progressed to CNC,and has also added turning to his skills set.
It's part ofwhat the two directors describe as a multi-skilled approach tothe business of providing a single source capability.
Althoughwell known for its honing, deep hole drilling and boringexpertise, the past two to three years have seen Hone-AllPrecision expand its machining and project management capability.The result is an ISO 9001-2000 accredited business capable ofmachining components in virtually any material up to three metresin length to the highest quality standards and within onefacility.
Part of the GBP 0.5 million investment to date has beenin two new machines from XYZ Machine Tools.
These are a3HP/2.25kW Edge 2000 manual/CNC mill equipped with the innovativePrototrak control and a centre lathe equipped with a Newall C70digital readout, both of which Roger Ayers uses for intricateprototype work.
The turret mill has a table work surface of1270mm by 254mm and X, Y and Z travels of 762mm, 406mm and 406mmrespectively, while the 7.5HP/5.6kW XYZ 1550 lathe provides a390mm swing over the bed and 1250mm between centres.
ThePrototrak control's question and answer format has provedparticularly helpful, because it has enabled skilled machinistssuch as Ayers as well as younger trainees to adapt quickly toCNC, with both machines playing their part in Hone-AllPrecision's continuous improvement programme.
'Beforewe bought the XYZ mill some nine months ago we were doingone-offs on our machining centre and holding up production workas a result,' says Andrea Rodney.
'So we began lookingfor a machine that would be easy to set-up and operate, but onethat could also be used in our in-house training programme.
Wehad good reports about these machines from customers and have notbeen disappointed.
We freed up the machining centre and havesince taken on more prototype work because we can turn the workround more quickly.
Much the same has happened with the newlathe: as well as one-offs it does all the preparation work forthe smaller gundrills, freeing up much-needed capacity.
Friday, November 17, 2006
True global subcontracting business is aim
BTMA member Rodmatic of Reading is setting a course few competitors will follow with the objective of being a true global subcontracting business.
By combining the expertise developed over some 40 years of high volume subcontract machining with a strong IT led strategy for smaller batchwork involving highly complex multi-feature components where a 'one-hit' single cycle operation will prevail, BTMA member Rodmatic of Reading is setting a course few competitors will follow with the objective of being a true global subcontracting business. Says director Brian Steatham, fresh from selling his highly successful software business Pathtrace to Planit Holdings at the turn of the year: 'I want to invest in this business and draw on my experiences from taking Pathtrace into international markets.' During his time at the head of the programming software company he successfully launched the business into America, Japan, Singapore, China and Brazil. Brian Steatham's vision is to structure the investment led company, already having a turnover of GBP 5 million and employing 55 people, into one providing a machining service that is very competitive, efficient on delivery and high on quality to support sectors such as oil and gas, fluid power, medical and specialist automotive with companies that operate in the global market.
The company, under managing director Robert Rickman, is already operating as two divisions, Rodmatic Multico for high volume production and Rodmatic Hytec as a fast response, single cycle, specialist production operation for higher value and complex parts in batch sizes between 20 and 500.
While both divisions are being organised with a view to being IT driven, they will use the latest business and communication systems and software, the most appropriate machine tools and quality equipment and this is to be progressively installed.
Adds Brian Steatham: 'We are not afraid to invest to achieve our targets.' Already at the Reading facilities a new Daewoo Puma MX 2000 ST turn/mill centre has been installed alongside an Hitachi Seiki HiTec-Turn 20 mill centre and a Mitutoyo Crysta Apex C co-ordinate measuring machine sited in its own temperature controlled inspection centre.
As would be expected from the founder of Pathtrace, EdgeCAM off line programming is being utilised to take in CAD models for four-axis contouring and five-axis positioning to present the tooling appropriately for compound angle feature machining.
Rodmatic Hytec is also providing a design support service where consultation for cost-effective machining is given taking in the extensive and traditional skills available from Rodmatic Multico's volume manufacture expertise as well as 'single cycle' technology.
And as part of the service available, in addition to Kanban or direct to line, both Rodmatic operations will provide packaging and delivery to customer specification.
Typical of the projects undertaken at Rodmatic Hytec is a family of shuttle valve bodies produced in batches of between 25 and 50 parts directly from a 200 mm sawn billet in a single operation.
The components involve considerably more milling and drilling than turning with more than 30 different holes, some set at compound angles with various critical intersections and breakthroughs to other holes and features.
Further operations also include turning, extensive milling, boring and threading carried out on the Puma MX 2000 ST utilising both main and subspindle, B-axis and five-axis positioning.
Altogether some 40 tools are used with the support of sister tool replacement for extended running to produce the part in a single cycle.
Previous suppliers machined the valve body from castings requiring numerous operations and relocations all accumulating to extended lead times with greater possibility of reject work.
Indeed, with Rodmatic Hytec's method development, any porosity problems often found by the customer on testing are a thing of the past and with a massive lead time reduction, it can almost instantly reset the machine to produce the next customer delivery.
The shuttle valve family was programmed using EdgeCAM Part Modeller and EdgeCAM Solid Machinist which, according to production manager Jonathan Imm, allowed holes and features to be easily repositioned or resized to accommodate the 'family' differences.
By combining the expertise developed over some 40 years of high volume subcontract machining with a strong IT led strategy for smaller batchwork involving highly complex multi-feature components where a 'one-hit' single cycle operation will prevail, BTMA member Rodmatic of Reading is setting a course few competitors will follow with the objective of being a true global subcontracting business. Says director Brian Steatham, fresh from selling his highly successful software business Pathtrace to Planit Holdings at the turn of the year: 'I want to invest in this business and draw on my experiences from taking Pathtrace into international markets.' During his time at the head of the programming software company he successfully launched the business into America, Japan, Singapore, China and Brazil. Brian Steatham's vision is to structure the investment led company, already having a turnover of GBP 5 million and employing 55 people, into one providing a machining service that is very competitive, efficient on delivery and high on quality to support sectors such as oil and gas, fluid power, medical and specialist automotive with companies that operate in the global market.
The company, under managing director Robert Rickman, is already operating as two divisions, Rodmatic Multico for high volume production and Rodmatic Hytec as a fast response, single cycle, specialist production operation for higher value and complex parts in batch sizes between 20 and 500.
While both divisions are being organised with a view to being IT driven, they will use the latest business and communication systems and software, the most appropriate machine tools and quality equipment and this is to be progressively installed.
Adds Brian Steatham: 'We are not afraid to invest to achieve our targets.' Already at the Reading facilities a new Daewoo Puma MX 2000 ST turn/mill centre has been installed alongside an Hitachi Seiki HiTec-Turn 20 mill centre and a Mitutoyo Crysta Apex C co-ordinate measuring machine sited in its own temperature controlled inspection centre.
As would be expected from the founder of Pathtrace, EdgeCAM off line programming is being utilised to take in CAD models for four-axis contouring and five-axis positioning to present the tooling appropriately for compound angle feature machining.
Rodmatic Hytec is also providing a design support service where consultation for cost-effective machining is given taking in the extensive and traditional skills available from Rodmatic Multico's volume manufacture expertise as well as 'single cycle' technology.
And as part of the service available, in addition to Kanban or direct to line, both Rodmatic operations will provide packaging and delivery to customer specification.
Typical of the projects undertaken at Rodmatic Hytec is a family of shuttle valve bodies produced in batches of between 25 and 50 parts directly from a 200 mm sawn billet in a single operation.
The components involve considerably more milling and drilling than turning with more than 30 different holes, some set at compound angles with various critical intersections and breakthroughs to other holes and features.
Further operations also include turning, extensive milling, boring and threading carried out on the Puma MX 2000 ST utilising both main and subspindle, B-axis and five-axis positioning.
Altogether some 40 tools are used with the support of sister tool replacement for extended running to produce the part in a single cycle.
Previous suppliers machined the valve body from castings requiring numerous operations and relocations all accumulating to extended lead times with greater possibility of reject work.
Indeed, with Rodmatic Hytec's method development, any porosity problems often found by the customer on testing are a thing of the past and with a massive lead time reduction, it can almost instantly reset the machine to produce the next customer delivery.
The shuttle valve family was programmed using EdgeCAM Part Modeller and EdgeCAM Solid Machinist which, according to production manager Jonathan Imm, allowed holes and features to be easily repositioned or resized to accommodate the 'family' differences.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Management expertise to support global operations
Managing director Robert Rickman of Rodmatic based in Reading has appointed Terry O'Sullivan as Works Manager to enhance the subcontract machining operations and introduce new ideas to improve productivity. Through his extensive expertise in volume production for Tier 1 automotive industry suppliers and short batch machining for OEMs in the mechanical handling sector, Terry O'Sullivan will directly control production at Rodmatic Multico which bases its high volume machining capability on 37 multi-automatic lathes as well as the small to medium batch, high technology mill/turn operation of Rodmatic Hytek. Terry O'Sullivan has extensive experience in supply-chain management and implementing lean manufacturing technology that he has built-up over 25 years.
He has a track record of justification, installation and commissioning flexible manufacturing technology, material handling, implementing MRP systems and has extensive assembly line experience.
He has also been heavily involved with many aspects of new product introduction.
Adds Robert Rickman: 'Terry has worked on a wide range of projects including the high profile Thrust SSC where he was involved in the supply of special equipment used in the breaking of the land speed record.
From his apprenticeship he has been heavily involved in production engineering and most aspects of production management.
With this level of considerable hands-on expertise, he will be a key player to help improve our competitiveness in support of our expansion as a global business.'
He has a track record of justification, installation and commissioning flexible manufacturing technology, material handling, implementing MRP systems and has extensive assembly line experience.
He has also been heavily involved with many aspects of new product introduction.
Adds Robert Rickman: 'Terry has worked on a wide range of projects including the high profile Thrust SSC where he was involved in the supply of special equipment used in the breaking of the land speed record.
From his apprenticeship he has been heavily involved in production engineering and most aspects of production management.
With this level of considerable hands-on expertise, he will be a key player to help improve our competitiveness in support of our expansion as a global business.'
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Silver celebrations for engineering subcontractor
A Staffordshire engineering firm is to celebrate its 25th anniversary in style - with a birthday bash for its employees and customers.
Staffordshire Precision Engineering is holding the event, at the Manor House Hotel in Alsager on November 10th, to thank people for their support and hard work over the past quarter of a century. Joint MD Phil Smith said: 'We've come a long way since my dad founded the company in 1981.
'He started the company from scratch to provide the facility of a local jobbing shop for larger manufacturers in the area.
'Over the years we have specialised into manufacturing small to medium volumes of high precision components.
We now have 36 employees and a turnover of over GBP2m.
'It's taken a lot of hard work and we couldn't have done it without the support of our customers, suppliers and most importantly, our workforce.
'This event is to thank all of them, celebrate our first 25 years and look forward to the next 25.' The firm, which is based in Newcastle-under-Lyme, manufactures specialist components for various industries including the aerospace, scientific instruments and the automotive sector.
Staffordshire Precision Engineering is holding the event, at the Manor House Hotel in Alsager on November 10th, to thank people for their support and hard work over the past quarter of a century. Joint MD Phil Smith said: 'We've come a long way since my dad founded the company in 1981.
'He started the company from scratch to provide the facility of a local jobbing shop for larger manufacturers in the area.
'Over the years we have specialised into manufacturing small to medium volumes of high precision components.
We now have 36 employees and a turnover of over GBP2m.
'It's taken a lot of hard work and we couldn't have done it without the support of our customers, suppliers and most importantly, our workforce.
'This event is to thank all of them, celebrate our first 25 years and look forward to the next 25.' The firm, which is based in Newcastle-under-Lyme, manufactures specialist components for various industries including the aerospace, scientific instruments and the automotive sector.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Subcontractor technical manager gets 25 years
Technical manager Richard Simmons is celebrating 25 years' service with APT Leicester - leading supplier of high precision turned components and intricate prismatic parts.
Technical manager Richard Simmons is celebrating 25 years' service with APT Leicester - leading supplier of high precision turned components and intricate prismatic parts. When he joined back in 1981, the company had just one CNC machine together with around 40 bar fed mechanical cam auto lathes, and much of its business came from providing machine parts for the hosiery industry. Appointed as works manager with the responsibility for setting up auto lathes and CNC sliding head lathes, Simmons was promoted to technical manager earlier this year and now also has responsibility for maintaining machinery and the IT network.
When he joined the company, just one computer was on site running an accounts package.
There are now 10 PCs in place and a variety of software applications.
'There have been quite a few changes since I joined APT,' explains Simmons.
'The company focuses increasingly on more difficult, high value jobs, machining close tolerance complex parts in a range of materials including aluminium, brass, steel, plastics, stainless and high temperature alloys.' Today, APT's 16 lathes and two machining centres are all CNC, while a significant proportion of customers now come from higher value sectors such as aerospace, automotive, lock making and instrumentation.
Born and educated in Whetstone, Leicester, Simmons qualified as a metallurgist while a trainee at TI Desford Tubes.
After five years with the company he left to run the machine shop for an electroforming/machining specialist for the following 12 years before joining APT.
Technical manager Richard Simmons is celebrating 25 years' service with APT Leicester - leading supplier of high precision turned components and intricate prismatic parts. When he joined back in 1981, the company had just one CNC machine together with around 40 bar fed mechanical cam auto lathes, and much of its business came from providing machine parts for the hosiery industry. Appointed as works manager with the responsibility for setting up auto lathes and CNC sliding head lathes, Simmons was promoted to technical manager earlier this year and now also has responsibility for maintaining machinery and the IT network.
When he joined the company, just one computer was on site running an accounts package.
There are now 10 PCs in place and a variety of software applications.
'There have been quite a few changes since I joined APT,' explains Simmons.
'The company focuses increasingly on more difficult, high value jobs, machining close tolerance complex parts in a range of materials including aluminium, brass, steel, plastics, stainless and high temperature alloys.' Today, APT's 16 lathes and two machining centres are all CNC, while a significant proportion of customers now come from higher value sectors such as aerospace, automotive, lock making and instrumentation.
Born and educated in Whetstone, Leicester, Simmons qualified as a metallurgist while a trainee at TI Desford Tubes.
After five years with the company he left to run the machine shop for an electroforming/machining specialist for the following 12 years before joining APT.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
CNC millers extend manufacturing experience
More CNC machine tools have been added to a Faculty of Enginering that uses industry-standard CAD/CAM software so that students experience the complete design to manufacture cycle.
Whatever the individual's background, interests or ability,Coleg Menai reckons to have something to offer on its threecampuses situated in the university city of Bangor and the Isleof Anglesey, North Wales. A wide range of vocational and academiccourses ensures that the college's intake continues toincrease year on year, with over 10,000 students currentlystudying full- or part-time at the College, at home and on-line.The campus at Ffordd Ffriddoedd houses the Faculty of Technology,which has more than 500 students each year signing up toengineering courses ranging from NVQ Level One to Higher NationalDiploma. Students are actively encouraged to move freely betweenvocational and academic courses in order to reach their fullpotential, and the College also plays a major role in keeping theWelsh language alive, with much of the day to day dialogue takingplace in Welsh.
'The quality of the teaching and theequipment we have here allows our engineering students toexperience the complete design to manufacture cycle forthemselves,' says David Price, who heads the Faculty ofTechnology.
'We use industry-standard CAD/CAM software andthe machine tools installed here are broadly representative ofthe level of technology that is to be found with employers inthis region.
One of the reasons why we opted for XYZ machines,for example, is that they are used in the Airbus factory atBroughton and we want to provide training on equipment that iscompatible with the market we serve here in North Wales.'Coleg Menai's latest purchase is a 13HP (10kW) XYZ Mini Mill560, which despite its small footprint of just 6ft2 (0.56m2) hastravels of 560mm in X, 400mm in Y and 500mm in Z.
It alsofeatures rapid travels of 20m/min, a 10-station toolchanger (16optional) and spindle speeds up to 8000 rev/min as standard or12,000 rev/min optional.
With safety very much in mind, steelconcertina covers are fitted to all three axes.
The Mini Mill 560installed in the Faculty of Technology is equipped with theSiemens 802D control, although the Siemens 810D conversationalShopmill, Fanuc Oi MB and Heidenhain iTNC 530 controls areoffered as alternatives.
In common with other XYZ CNC machinetools on site, the new machine is networked to the design suite,which means programming can be done either on- or off-line.
Thisgives students hands-on experience of downloading CAD/CAMprograms.
Workshop instructor Rhys Parry says he reassuresstudents new to CNC with the words: 'If you can use a mobile'phone, you can operate an XYZ machine'.
He singles outthe Prototrak control fitted to the manual/CNC mills as'being a great introduction to CNC' and, as the personresponsible for maintenance, is equally enthusiastic about thereliability and maintainability of the XYZ manual and CNCmachines.
The first Prototrak-equipped mill was installed 10years ago, while the latest, a SM1500, was installed lastSeptember.
It has a 3HP (2.25kW) spindle motor providing a75-4200 rev/min variable speed range and X, Y and Z travels of660mm by 330mm by 406mm.
With operator safety a majorconsideration, especially in a college environment, full tableguarding is supplied as standard.
One indication of how wellstudents have responded to the quality of the teaching and theinfluence of the technology available to them at Coleg Menai canbe gauged from the College's success in last November'sEEF Modern Apprenticeship Competition for Wales.
It was the ninthyear in a row that Coleg Menai swept the board in thisprestigious competition, with prizes awarded to eight studentswho between them are serving apprenticeships with AngleseyAluminium Metal, Blaenau Plastics and BNFL.
Whatever the individual's background, interests or ability,Coleg Menai reckons to have something to offer on its threecampuses situated in the university city of Bangor and the Isleof Anglesey, North Wales. A wide range of vocational and academiccourses ensures that the college's intake continues toincrease year on year, with over 10,000 students currentlystudying full- or part-time at the College, at home and on-line.The campus at Ffordd Ffriddoedd houses the Faculty of Technology,which has more than 500 students each year signing up toengineering courses ranging from NVQ Level One to Higher NationalDiploma. Students are actively encouraged to move freely betweenvocational and academic courses in order to reach their fullpotential, and the College also plays a major role in keeping theWelsh language alive, with much of the day to day dialogue takingplace in Welsh.
'The quality of the teaching and theequipment we have here allows our engineering students toexperience the complete design to manufacture cycle forthemselves,' says David Price, who heads the Faculty ofTechnology.
'We use industry-standard CAD/CAM software andthe machine tools installed here are broadly representative ofthe level of technology that is to be found with employers inthis region.
One of the reasons why we opted for XYZ machines,for example, is that they are used in the Airbus factory atBroughton and we want to provide training on equipment that iscompatible with the market we serve here in North Wales.'Coleg Menai's latest purchase is a 13HP (10kW) XYZ Mini Mill560, which despite its small footprint of just 6ft2 (0.56m2) hastravels of 560mm in X, 400mm in Y and 500mm in Z.
It alsofeatures rapid travels of 20m/min, a 10-station toolchanger (16optional) and spindle speeds up to 8000 rev/min as standard or12,000 rev/min optional.
With safety very much in mind, steelconcertina covers are fitted to all three axes.
The Mini Mill 560installed in the Faculty of Technology is equipped with theSiemens 802D control, although the Siemens 810D conversationalShopmill, Fanuc Oi MB and Heidenhain iTNC 530 controls areoffered as alternatives.
In common with other XYZ CNC machinetools on site, the new machine is networked to the design suite,which means programming can be done either on- or off-line.
Thisgives students hands-on experience of downloading CAD/CAMprograms.
Workshop instructor Rhys Parry says he reassuresstudents new to CNC with the words: 'If you can use a mobile'phone, you can operate an XYZ machine'.
He singles outthe Prototrak control fitted to the manual/CNC mills as'being a great introduction to CNC' and, as the personresponsible for maintenance, is equally enthusiastic about thereliability and maintainability of the XYZ manual and CNCmachines.
The first Prototrak-equipped mill was installed 10years ago, while the latest, a SM1500, was installed lastSeptember.
It has a 3HP (2.25kW) spindle motor providing a75-4200 rev/min variable speed range and X, Y and Z travels of660mm by 330mm by 406mm.
With operator safety a majorconsideration, especially in a college environment, full tableguarding is supplied as standard.
One indication of how wellstudents have responded to the quality of the teaching and theinfluence of the technology available to them at Coleg Menai canbe gauged from the College's success in last November'sEEF Modern Apprenticeship Competition for Wales.
It was the ninthyear in a row that Coleg Menai swept the board in thisprestigious competition, with prizes awarded to eight studentswho between them are serving apprenticeships with AngleseyAluminium Metal, Blaenau Plastics and BNFL.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
DXF file converter has automatic gap closing
A powerful DXF file converter, that has automatic gap closing within the software to minimise the time spent converting the CAD file, will be shown alongside the latest CNC machine tools at MACH.
At long last the recession which has afflicted British machinetools appears to be lifting, but funding growth after a period ofdownturn can be difficult. At MACH 2004, XYZ will bedemonstrating its comprehensive range of affordable machineswhich will provide greatly improved productivity and enable theuser to better service existing contracts and take on additionalones. Demonstrated under power, the XYZ machines enable the userto improve productivity and profitability by offering easy setup, greater accuracy and competitive cycle times.
One of its mostpopular machines at the moment, the XYZ Mini-Mill, is capable ofhandling all typical machining jobs but requires only half thefloor space.
With a tiny footprint of just 6ft2, the heavilyribbed XYZ Mini-Mill has a big working envelope and the largest Zaxis of any of the small machining centres.
Travel in X is 560mm,400mm in Y and 500mm in Z.
Rapid traverse is 25m/min.
Spindlespeed is 8000rpm (1200 optional) and spindle taper BT40.
The toolcarousel has 10 pockets; a 16 station arm-type toolchanger isoptional.
Table load is 350kg.
Being introduced at this MACH area new DXF file converter, a new 2.5D Edge, and a new XYZ200TCturning centre, which is an up-rated version of the XYZ150turning centre and provides a larger capacity from a smallerfootprint.
The powerful new DXF file converter, believed to beone of the simplest and easiest to use on the market today, isvirtually a plug and play system and is the only system known tohave automatic gap closing within the software to minimize thetime spent converting the CAD file.
It offers a significantimprovement in productivity because the simplicity of convertingthe CAD file into a machine program reduces set up timeenormously.
An optional extra with any of the XYZ ProtoTRAKmachines, the new DXF file converter uses intuitive plain Englishlanguage, so simple prompts on the screen enable the operator toquickly and easily program the control.
The system converts CADfiles into programs in a quick and easy process which can belearned, literally, in minutes.
The entire file can be viewed onscreen and the operator selects which layers he wants to machine.Also on show is the new 2.5D Edge.
Using plain English commandsand intuitive programming it can be used easily by operatorsunfamiliar with CNC machines.
It retains handwheels to give theinexperienced operator confidence, essential for productivity inthe early days of using any machine.
It provides all the featurescommonly used in an engineering shop without the additional, andoften unnecessary, features which make other systems complicatedor confusing to use.
The new 2.5D Edge will be fitted to a newBed Mill, the Edge DPM 2.5, a 2.5 axis bed mill, Also beingdemonstrated are the ProtoTRAK mills and ProTURN lathes, provenover many years to dramatically improve productivity.
Offered inthree milling versions, the entry level EDGE, the SM and VM (withspindle speed control), the VL is offered for lathes.
The systemcan accept CAD/CAM data from any recognised cam system and, withno limitation on memory capacity, it eliminates the need for DNC(drip feed).
The ProtoTRAK system has been designed for ease ofuse so even operators with no previous CNC experience can learnto use it in just a few hours.
Other machines being demonstratedare the XYZ machining and turning centres, a selection from itsmanual lathes and mills and the popular FastTap dedicated tappingsystem.
At long last the recession which has afflicted British machinetools appears to be lifting, but funding growth after a period ofdownturn can be difficult. At MACH 2004, XYZ will bedemonstrating its comprehensive range of affordable machineswhich will provide greatly improved productivity and enable theuser to better service existing contracts and take on additionalones. Demonstrated under power, the XYZ machines enable the userto improve productivity and profitability by offering easy setup, greater accuracy and competitive cycle times.
One of its mostpopular machines at the moment, the XYZ Mini-Mill, is capable ofhandling all typical machining jobs but requires only half thefloor space.
With a tiny footprint of just 6ft2, the heavilyribbed XYZ Mini-Mill has a big working envelope and the largest Zaxis of any of the small machining centres.
Travel in X is 560mm,400mm in Y and 500mm in Z.
Rapid traverse is 25m/min.
Spindlespeed is 8000rpm (1200 optional) and spindle taper BT40.
The toolcarousel has 10 pockets; a 16 station arm-type toolchanger isoptional.
Table load is 350kg.
Being introduced at this MACH area new DXF file converter, a new 2.5D Edge, and a new XYZ200TCturning centre, which is an up-rated version of the XYZ150turning centre and provides a larger capacity from a smallerfootprint.
The powerful new DXF file converter, believed to beone of the simplest and easiest to use on the market today, isvirtually a plug and play system and is the only system known tohave automatic gap closing within the software to minimize thetime spent converting the CAD file.
It offers a significantimprovement in productivity because the simplicity of convertingthe CAD file into a machine program reduces set up timeenormously.
An optional extra with any of the XYZ ProtoTRAKmachines, the new DXF file converter uses intuitive plain Englishlanguage, so simple prompts on the screen enable the operator toquickly and easily program the control.
The system converts CADfiles into programs in a quick and easy process which can belearned, literally, in minutes.
The entire file can be viewed onscreen and the operator selects which layers he wants to machine.Also on show is the new 2.5D Edge.
Using plain English commandsand intuitive programming it can be used easily by operatorsunfamiliar with CNC machines.
It retains handwheels to give theinexperienced operator confidence, essential for productivity inthe early days of using any machine.
It provides all the featurescommonly used in an engineering shop without the additional, andoften unnecessary, features which make other systems complicatedor confusing to use.
The new 2.5D Edge will be fitted to a newBed Mill, the Edge DPM 2.5, a 2.5 axis bed mill, Also beingdemonstrated are the ProtoTRAK mills and ProTURN lathes, provenover many years to dramatically improve productivity.
Offered inthree milling versions, the entry level EDGE, the SM and VM (withspindle speed control), the VL is offered for lathes.
The systemcan accept CAD/CAM data from any recognised cam system and, withno limitation on memory capacity, it eliminates the need for DNC(drip feed).
The ProtoTRAK system has been designed for ease ofuse so even operators with no previous CNC experience can learnto use it in just a few hours.
Other machines being demonstratedare the XYZ machining and turning centres, a selection from itsmanual lathes and mills and the popular FastTap dedicated tappingsystem.
Friday, November 10, 2006
Cells sharpen-up precision blade repair
Production cell comprising two drilling/milling centres cut location feature machining cycles for aero-engine blade restoration by over 30 per cent, while improving machined accuracy.
Central to a newly developed vane production cell was the initial installation by 600 Centre of Shepshed of two Fanuc Alpha T14iB four-axis Robodrills which cut location feature machining cycles for aero-engine blade restoration by over 30 per cent and considerably improved machining accuracy. Indeed, such was the success that Airfoil Technologies International - UK (ATI) quickly purchased a third Robodrill that has transformed blade profile operations through the use of advanced scanning techniques, and the subsequent order for a fourth machine - this time a wide bed, four-axis Alpha T14iC model, has added to 600 Centre success by reducing machining times on 610 mm long mid-span blade shrouds by at least 50 per cent. Based in Ripley, Derbyshire and employing 300 people, ATI - UK repairs and restores blades predominantly used in civil aircraft engines.
The machining facility covers a wide range of components including fan blades, compressor blades and vanes as well as rotating knife-edge seals and discs which are used by all the leading aero-engine builders.
This work tends to be generated by a combination of in-service deterioration and impact damage as well as through OEM and customer modifications and includes all aspects of inspection, repair and overhaul.
Once the components are processed they are then certified ready for immediate installation into the engine.
In a typical week, ATI - UK will repair well over 5,000 blades and vanes which are machined from materials such as Jethete, titanium and aluminium in sizes that range from 25mm (squared) up to some units which can be up to 1000mm in length.
As part of Airfoil Technologies International Group, ATI - UK provides component repair services to major American, European, Mid- and Far-East airlines and has overhaul facilities for a wide range of engines.
It offers a complete turnkey service on fan blades which includes: incoming and final non-destructive inspection techniques using X-ray, ultrasonic, fluorescent penetrant.
CMM measurement, length correction by TIG welding, aerofoil patching by electron beam welding, CNC root and aerofoil machining, hot creep forming and aerofoil re-profiling and polishing are also prime processes that have been adopted.
One key aspect of the company's operation is the restoration of the end locating features of vanes which, in service, are subjected to high levels of vibration which leads to deterioration and wear as they rub against each other and repairs have to be carried out every two to three years.
In order to cope with an ever-increasing volume of work, ATI - UK decided to develop a special vane cell which includes robotic TIG welding to build-up any worn surfaces and the two, 600 Centre supplied four-axis Robodrill T14iB vertical machining centres, which accurately re-machine the end fixings after welding.
Development engineering manager, Garry Sims, outlined the background to the project: 'We decided to improve the efficiency and accuracy of our vane machining and follow our cellular manufacturing strategy where every single part is constantly on the move.
We were finding our existing five-axis machining centre was at the limits of both its productivity and accuracy, so we decided to look for a faster, more precise and reliable method of machining.' He follows on: 'After investigating a number of different machining centres we finally selected the Fanuc Robodrill T14iB due to its capability and combination of short cycling, speed - with fast rapid traverses of 54m/min and quick tool change - accuracy, rigidity, compactness and of course purchase price! The predicted performance of the machine and price combination was so good that we found we could actually justify purchasing two Robodrills, rather than one.' Clever application engineering by 600 Centre in terms of the Nikken indexer and a specially-made trunnion table allows both the four-axis Robodrills to function as five-axis machines.
As part of the application, two System 3R quick-fix pallets are mounted at 90deg to each other, a vertical on the indexer spindle and a horizontal on the trunnion table.
This ensures any demands on the operator are minimal, all that is required is mid-way through the cycle to transfer partly machined vanes from one station to the other.
With this simple procedure, all six-sides of the end location blocks of the vanes can be totally machined.
Prior to re-machining, each vane is located in a workholding fixture which is then mounted on a pallet where three conical pins are utilised for accurate positioning relative to the aerofoil section.
End locking screws are then tightened to secure the vane and the whole fixture is then filled with a low melting point alloy which solidifies in order to rigidly maintain the position of the vane.
As the ends of the vane are still exposed, they can then be machined in a very rigid set up after which, the workholding alloy is simply dissolved by placing the complete fixture in boiling water.
Once on the Robodrill, the end locations of the vane are re-machined.
The process involves milling away much of the 1.52mm thick weld deposit to around 0.38mm on either side which recreates the original dimensions.
Three different sizes of carbide end mills are used to profile the complicated dovetail-type end locations and in-cycle probing is introduced on key dimensions.
Due to the set up of the cell, one operator looks after both Robodrills and the machines are run through 12 hour shifts, seven days a week to produce 36 variants of vane.
As part of the application engineering, tooling and fixturing is standardised across the range, so the operator only has to call down a fresh program for the next vane type.
Each blade is inspected on a co-ordinate measuring machine which is located adjacent to the cell.
As well as reducing the previous machining cycle times of between 25 to 30 min, depending on the type of vane, down to 15 and 20 mins respectively, the Robodrills have created further production advantages, as Sims added.
'The rigidity and accuracy of the large spindle on the Robodrill has improved tool life by at least 25 per cent and machining accuracy and repeatability is almost unbelievable, with no tolerance drift or variance.' He explained: 'Being a Six Sigma company means we work to really high standards of precision and the Robodrills are proving well able to hold tolerances to +/-0.005 mm, which is well in excess of the specified limits on these parts.
What's more, the machines are exceptionally quiet in operation and they have both returned a pay-back in less than two years.' Following the addition of the specially-developed Alpha T14iC four-axis model by the 600 Centre this replaced a large horizontal machining centre which used to re-machine 610mm long mid-span shrouds on large fan blades.
The machine was passed off at 600 Centre and delivered on a Tuesday, by Wednesday morning it was commissioned and in production the same afternoon.
The process involves facing one side and then manually adjusting re-setting for the other side of the shrouds which have been refurbished again using TIG welding techniques.
While the components are quite large, the milled shroud tip area is only around 6 mm wide by 50mm long so the 600 Centre solution allowed the machining of these protrusions to be carried out in a single, one-hit operation at least 50 per cent faster than could be achieved before.
Central to a newly developed vane production cell was the initial installation by 600 Centre of Shepshed of two Fanuc Alpha T14iB four-axis Robodrills which cut location feature machining cycles for aero-engine blade restoration by over 30 per cent and considerably improved machining accuracy. Indeed, such was the success that Airfoil Technologies International - UK (ATI) quickly purchased a third Robodrill that has transformed blade profile operations through the use of advanced scanning techniques, and the subsequent order for a fourth machine - this time a wide bed, four-axis Alpha T14iC model, has added to 600 Centre success by reducing machining times on 610 mm long mid-span blade shrouds by at least 50 per cent. Based in Ripley, Derbyshire and employing 300 people, ATI - UK repairs and restores blades predominantly used in civil aircraft engines.
The machining facility covers a wide range of components including fan blades, compressor blades and vanes as well as rotating knife-edge seals and discs which are used by all the leading aero-engine builders.
This work tends to be generated by a combination of in-service deterioration and impact damage as well as through OEM and customer modifications and includes all aspects of inspection, repair and overhaul.
Once the components are processed they are then certified ready for immediate installation into the engine.
In a typical week, ATI - UK will repair well over 5,000 blades and vanes which are machined from materials such as Jethete, titanium and aluminium in sizes that range from 25mm (squared) up to some units which can be up to 1000mm in length.
As part of Airfoil Technologies International Group, ATI - UK provides component repair services to major American, European, Mid- and Far-East airlines and has overhaul facilities for a wide range of engines.
It offers a complete turnkey service on fan blades which includes: incoming and final non-destructive inspection techniques using X-ray, ultrasonic, fluorescent penetrant.
CMM measurement, length correction by TIG welding, aerofoil patching by electron beam welding, CNC root and aerofoil machining, hot creep forming and aerofoil re-profiling and polishing are also prime processes that have been adopted.
One key aspect of the company's operation is the restoration of the end locating features of vanes which, in service, are subjected to high levels of vibration which leads to deterioration and wear as they rub against each other and repairs have to be carried out every two to three years.
In order to cope with an ever-increasing volume of work, ATI - UK decided to develop a special vane cell which includes robotic TIG welding to build-up any worn surfaces and the two, 600 Centre supplied four-axis Robodrill T14iB vertical machining centres, which accurately re-machine the end fixings after welding.
Development engineering manager, Garry Sims, outlined the background to the project: 'We decided to improve the efficiency and accuracy of our vane machining and follow our cellular manufacturing strategy where every single part is constantly on the move.
We were finding our existing five-axis machining centre was at the limits of both its productivity and accuracy, so we decided to look for a faster, more precise and reliable method of machining.' He follows on: 'After investigating a number of different machining centres we finally selected the Fanuc Robodrill T14iB due to its capability and combination of short cycling, speed - with fast rapid traverses of 54m/min and quick tool change - accuracy, rigidity, compactness and of course purchase price! The predicted performance of the machine and price combination was so good that we found we could actually justify purchasing two Robodrills, rather than one.' Clever application engineering by 600 Centre in terms of the Nikken indexer and a specially-made trunnion table allows both the four-axis Robodrills to function as five-axis machines.
As part of the application, two System 3R quick-fix pallets are mounted at 90deg to each other, a vertical on the indexer spindle and a horizontal on the trunnion table.
This ensures any demands on the operator are minimal, all that is required is mid-way through the cycle to transfer partly machined vanes from one station to the other.
With this simple procedure, all six-sides of the end location blocks of the vanes can be totally machined.
Prior to re-machining, each vane is located in a workholding fixture which is then mounted on a pallet where three conical pins are utilised for accurate positioning relative to the aerofoil section.
End locking screws are then tightened to secure the vane and the whole fixture is then filled with a low melting point alloy which solidifies in order to rigidly maintain the position of the vane.
As the ends of the vane are still exposed, they can then be machined in a very rigid set up after which, the workholding alloy is simply dissolved by placing the complete fixture in boiling water.
Once on the Robodrill, the end locations of the vane are re-machined.
The process involves milling away much of the 1.52mm thick weld deposit to around 0.38mm on either side which recreates the original dimensions.
Three different sizes of carbide end mills are used to profile the complicated dovetail-type end locations and in-cycle probing is introduced on key dimensions.
Due to the set up of the cell, one operator looks after both Robodrills and the machines are run through 12 hour shifts, seven days a week to produce 36 variants of vane.
As part of the application engineering, tooling and fixturing is standardised across the range, so the operator only has to call down a fresh program for the next vane type.
Each blade is inspected on a co-ordinate measuring machine which is located adjacent to the cell.
As well as reducing the previous machining cycle times of between 25 to 30 min, depending on the type of vane, down to 15 and 20 mins respectively, the Robodrills have created further production advantages, as Sims added.
'The rigidity and accuracy of the large spindle on the Robodrill has improved tool life by at least 25 per cent and machining accuracy and repeatability is almost unbelievable, with no tolerance drift or variance.' He explained: 'Being a Six Sigma company means we work to really high standards of precision and the Robodrills are proving well able to hold tolerances to +/-0.005 mm, which is well in excess of the specified limits on these parts.
What's more, the machines are exceptionally quiet in operation and they have both returned a pay-back in less than two years.' Following the addition of the specially-developed Alpha T14iC four-axis model by the 600 Centre this replaced a large horizontal machining centre which used to re-machine 610mm long mid-span shrouds on large fan blades.
The machine was passed off at 600 Centre and delivered on a Tuesday, by Wednesday morning it was commissioned and in production the same afternoon.
The process involves facing one side and then manually adjusting re-setting for the other side of the shrouds which have been refurbished again using TIG welding techniques.
While the components are quite large, the milled shroud tip area is only around 6 mm wide by 50mm long so the 600 Centre solution allowed the machining of these protrusions to be carried out in a single, one-hit operation at least 50 per cent faster than could be achieved before.
Thursday, November 9, 2006
Tooled bowls for vibratory bowl makers
Elscint Automation, the leading Vibratory bowl feeder manufacturer from India has now started supplying completely tooled Bowls to various Vibratory Bowl Feeder manufacturers in Europe. Labour costs being less in India, Elscint can make these tooled bowls available at a very competitive cost. Elscint provides the complete bowl tooling.
The Bowl Feeder manufacturer can then just take some trials and tune the Vibratory Drive and ship the complete tooled Vibratory Bowl Feeder to their customer.
Usually, tt takes between 30 to 100 hours to tool a Bowl depending upon the intricacy of the component which is being fed.
By outsourcing the tooling function to Elscint Automation, the Bowl Feeder manufacturer saves on this time, thus saving not only on valuable labour and overhead costs but also increasing the number of bowl feeders which can be manufactured and supplied without increasing the number of bowl tooling technicians, who are in short supply.
The quality of Elscint Bowls is comparable to any bowl manufactured in Europe and this can be gauged from the repeat orders Elscint is getting from Bowl Feeder manufacturers for this type of work.
Elscint Automation can provide either Cast Aluminum or Fabricated Stainless Steel Bowls.
Some manufacturers supply their own Cast Aluminum Bowls to Elscint Automation for doing the tooling.
This makes the tooled bowl from Elscint look similar to their own 'Homemade Bowls'.
Additionally, Elscint Automation can provide its popular Elscinthane Bowl Lining as well as provide the required finish for the Bowls.
With a lot of extra spare capacity, Elscint Automation can provide tooled bowls within a low delivery time and at very competitive costs.
In fact, Elscint Automation also takes care of the logistics and quotes for a Door Delivery rate which includes Air Freight to reach the Bowl Feeder Manufacturers factory within 4 working days of shipping the Bowl! Elscint also sends photos and videos of the Bowls on completion for approval of the customers.
Elscint Automation being an ISO 9001 registered company, customers can be assured of proper documentation like Test Reports and proper Instructions with the supplies.
The Bowl Feeder manufacturer can then just take some trials and tune the Vibratory Drive and ship the complete tooled Vibratory Bowl Feeder to their customer.
Usually, tt takes between 30 to 100 hours to tool a Bowl depending upon the intricacy of the component which is being fed.
By outsourcing the tooling function to Elscint Automation, the Bowl Feeder manufacturer saves on this time, thus saving not only on valuable labour and overhead costs but also increasing the number of bowl feeders which can be manufactured and supplied without increasing the number of bowl tooling technicians, who are in short supply.
The quality of Elscint Bowls is comparable to any bowl manufactured in Europe and this can be gauged from the repeat orders Elscint is getting from Bowl Feeder manufacturers for this type of work.
Elscint Automation can provide either Cast Aluminum or Fabricated Stainless Steel Bowls.
Some manufacturers supply their own Cast Aluminum Bowls to Elscint Automation for doing the tooling.
This makes the tooled bowl from Elscint look similar to their own 'Homemade Bowls'.
Additionally, Elscint Automation can provide its popular Elscinthane Bowl Lining as well as provide the required finish for the Bowls.
With a lot of extra spare capacity, Elscint Automation can provide tooled bowls within a low delivery time and at very competitive costs.
In fact, Elscint Automation also takes care of the logistics and quotes for a Door Delivery rate which includes Air Freight to reach the Bowl Feeder Manufacturers factory within 4 working days of shipping the Bowl! Elscint also sends photos and videos of the Bowls on completion for approval of the customers.
Elscint Automation being an ISO 9001 registered company, customers can be assured of proper documentation like Test Reports and proper Instructions with the supplies.
Vision system has conyeyor belt, integrated camera
Elscint Automation has been appointed the sole distributor for the made in Germany MRW Robo-potsystem for India. The basic Robo-potsystem which is a vision system consists of a conveyor belt, integrated CCD camera with LED illumination device, camera cleaning nozzle, return nozzle and a multi function computer. Applications for the Robo-potsystem can be as varied as feeding, inspection, sorting and counting.
Parts of any contour can be fed, inspected, sorted and counted.
The only precondition is that the Parts should have a minimum ht.
of 0.05 mm and minimum length of 0.2 mm and they should not roll or stick in the direction of travel.
The camera system consists on a CCD camera in a special housing with automatic cleaning device with a resolution of 14m.
The lighting is by a long life special LED.
The Lamp holder can be adjusted in any direction for optimal lighting of difficult part contours.
The computer consists of a large, integrated screen with a graphical User Interface.
There is graphical depiction of the part contour, including suppressions and corrections.
The video signal is also displayed qualitatively and quantitatively.
The functions and messages are displayed in clear language.
The conveyor belt is specially designed to the camera system and for mounting on the bowl feeder.
There is a tacho controlled, variable speed conveyor motor designed for operation in an industrial environment which permits programming of various recallable conveyor speeds.
The Elscint MRW Robo-pot system comes integrated with an Elscint vibratory bowl feeder.
Any of the 5 Models of Elscint vibratory bowl feeder ie model 100, 160, 250, 400, 630 can be used.
The Elscint bowls have many distinct tooling features built into the basic bowl designs, with tracks varying in width and shape to accommodate different types of components.
These inherent features of the bowl are of great assistance, when bowl tooling is being developed to fulfill a specific tooling application.
The bowls are made in either cast aluminum or stainless steel.
In stainless steel various types of bowls are available like conical, step design, cylindrical and outside taper bowl.
Various types of lining including Elscinthane PU spray lining can be provided.
The Robo-potsystem is very competitively priced at a fraction of the cost of other vision systems available in the market.
Parts of any contour can be fed, inspected, sorted and counted.
The only precondition is that the Parts should have a minimum ht.
of 0.05 mm and minimum length of 0.2 mm and they should not roll or stick in the direction of travel.
The camera system consists on a CCD camera in a special housing with automatic cleaning device with a resolution of 14m.
The lighting is by a long life special LED.
The Lamp holder can be adjusted in any direction for optimal lighting of difficult part contours.
The computer consists of a large, integrated screen with a graphical User Interface.
There is graphical depiction of the part contour, including suppressions and corrections.
The video signal is also displayed qualitatively and quantitatively.
The functions and messages are displayed in clear language.
The conveyor belt is specially designed to the camera system and for mounting on the bowl feeder.
There is a tacho controlled, variable speed conveyor motor designed for operation in an industrial environment which permits programming of various recallable conveyor speeds.
The Elscint MRW Robo-pot system comes integrated with an Elscint vibratory bowl feeder.
Any of the 5 Models of Elscint vibratory bowl feeder ie model 100, 160, 250, 400, 630 can be used.
The Elscint bowls have many distinct tooling features built into the basic bowl designs, with tracks varying in width and shape to accommodate different types of components.
These inherent features of the bowl are of great assistance, when bowl tooling is being developed to fulfill a specific tooling application.
The bowls are made in either cast aluminum or stainless steel.
In stainless steel various types of bowls are available like conical, step design, cylindrical and outside taper bowl.
Various types of lining including Elscinthane PU spray lining can be provided.
The Robo-potsystem is very competitively priced at a fraction of the cost of other vision systems available in the market.
Multiple hole patterns drilled at low cost
AutoDrill has introduced a fast low cost method to drill multiple hole patterns. Its affordable, made to order, fixed or adjustable pattern Multiple Spindle Heads can increase drilling efficiency many times. They are now available for both automatic and manual drilling equipment including drill presses, milling machines, direct motor mounts and a number of other platforms.
Many AutoDrill customers are simply buying the low cost multiple spindle drilling heads and installing them on existing equipment.
They then hire a contractor to run the machine for a specific period of time and/or until a project has been completed.
By doing this, the customer has avoided the hiring process as well as minimized their overall benefits costs.
Often, insurance is also the responsibility of the contractor.
AutoDrill manufactures production drilling and tapping equipment for industrial applications.
Many AutoDrill customers are simply buying the low cost multiple spindle drilling heads and installing them on existing equipment.
They then hire a contractor to run the machine for a specific period of time and/or until a project has been completed.
By doing this, the customer has avoided the hiring process as well as minimized their overall benefits costs.
Often, insurance is also the responsibility of the contractor.
AutoDrill manufactures production drilling and tapping equipment for industrial applications.
Feeder feeds diodes
Elscint Automation, the ISO 9001:2000 certified leading Vibratory bowl feeder manufacturer from India has developed a novel Vibratory Bowl Feeder for feeding Diodes in Rolling Orientation. Diodes being very thin having diameter of dia 1 mm and length of 50 mm have a tendency to come out of the Vibratory Bowl Feeder in Axial manner. However, Elscint Automation has been able to design a novel Vibratory Bowl Feeder which feeds the Diodes in Rolling orientation.
Additionally, singling or escapement can be provided which in turn helps in releasing the Diodes one at a time.
For this the Elscint Vibratory Bowl Feeder Model 400 is used and a speed of approx.
100 Diodes per minute can be achieved.
This Vibratory Bowl Feeder has received tremendous response from all Diode manufacturers as well as user industries for automating their various processes.
Additionally, singling or escapement can be provided which in turn helps in releasing the Diodes one at a time.
For this the Elscint Vibratory Bowl Feeder Model 400 is used and a speed of approx.
100 Diodes per minute can be achieved.
This Vibratory Bowl Feeder has received tremendous response from all Diode manufacturers as well as user industries for automating their various processes.
Wednesday, November 8, 2006
Counting system for small parts
Elscint Automation, manufactures an automatic Vibratory Counting System for counting of small parts like Plastic Caps, and Electrical Connectors as well as heavy parts such as metal sockets.
Elscint Automation, the leading ISO 9001:2000 certified Vibratory bowl feeder manufacturer from India manufactures an automatic Vibratory Counting System for counting of small parts like Plastic Caps, Spouts, Screws, Rivets, Capsules and Electrical Connectors, bearings, as well as heavy parts such as anchor bolts, bearing races and metal sockets. The standard equipment consists of a suitable Elscint Vibratory Bowl Feeder, correctly chosen from a variety of Models which Elscint offers, a Sensing Device and an Electronic reset able Counter. The Counter can be even upto 10 digits! And even more in case of special requirements.
Counting Speeds can be very high, even upto 1000 parts per minute, depending upon the component which requires counting.
Once a preset number is reached, the Counting can be made to stop automatically.
Restart can be either manually or again automatically on receiving of a Signal.
This equipment finds use in various industries, namely, cosmetic, electrical, mechanical, pharmaceutical, optical, bearing and many other industries.
Standard bowl feeders and Counters being in ready stock, delivery times are very low and the prices are very competitive.
Elscint Automation, the leading ISO 9001:2000 certified Vibratory bowl feeder manufacturer from India manufactures an automatic Vibratory Counting System for counting of small parts like Plastic Caps, Spouts, Screws, Rivets, Capsules and Electrical Connectors, bearings, as well as heavy parts such as anchor bolts, bearing races and metal sockets. The standard equipment consists of a suitable Elscint Vibratory Bowl Feeder, correctly chosen from a variety of Models which Elscint offers, a Sensing Device and an Electronic reset able Counter. The Counter can be even upto 10 digits! And even more in case of special requirements.
Counting Speeds can be very high, even upto 1000 parts per minute, depending upon the component which requires counting.
Once a preset number is reached, the Counting can be made to stop automatically.
Restart can be either manually or again automatically on receiving of a Signal.
This equipment finds use in various industries, namely, cosmetic, electrical, mechanical, pharmaceutical, optical, bearing and many other industries.
Standard bowl feeders and Counters being in ready stock, delivery times are very low and the prices are very competitive.
Monday, November 6, 2006
Automatic riveting machine
An Automatic Riveting Machine, from Elscint Automation receives good response from Switchgear and Contactor Manufacturers, with increased productivity.
Elscint Automation, the ISO 9001:2000 certified Vibratory bowl feeder Manufacturer and System Integrator from India has recently developed an Automatic riveting Machine. The rivets are fed through a Vibratory Bowl Feeder to the Riveting Station. The other part (Spring, Strip etc) can either be placed manually or automatically from another Vibratory Bowl Feeder.
Alternatively, the Strip can be fed through a De-reeler and cut as per the requirement and fed automatically.
Other options which are available is checking of the Spring/Strip etc before riveting, counting of the number of pieces riveted, automatic stoppage of Machine when a wrong rivet/spring is fed etc At the riveting point, the riveting takes place and the completed riveted assembly is blow out or removed manually as the case might be.
For this a Riveting Machine is mounted on a specially designed platform.
This Machine has received a very good response from various Switchgear and Contactor Manufacturers.
Productivity increases tremendously with the usage of this Elscint Automatic Riveting Machine.
Elscint Automation, the ISO 9001:2000 certified Vibratory bowl feeder Manufacturer and System Integrator from India has recently developed an Automatic riveting Machine. The rivets are fed through a Vibratory Bowl Feeder to the Riveting Station. The other part (Spring, Strip etc) can either be placed manually or automatically from another Vibratory Bowl Feeder.
Alternatively, the Strip can be fed through a De-reeler and cut as per the requirement and fed automatically.
Other options which are available is checking of the Spring/Strip etc before riveting, counting of the number of pieces riveted, automatic stoppage of Machine when a wrong rivet/spring is fed etc At the riveting point, the riveting takes place and the completed riveted assembly is blow out or removed manually as the case might be.
For this a Riveting Machine is mounted on a specially designed platform.
This Machine has received a very good response from various Switchgear and Contactor Manufacturers.
Productivity increases tremendously with the usage of this Elscint Automatic Riveting Machine.
Friday, November 3, 2006
New Austrian Office For Advanced Input Systems
Specialist EMS provider Advanced Input Systems is expanding its European presence with a new office for Germany, Austria and Switzerland
Specialist EMS provider Advanced Input Systems is expanding itsEuropean presence with a new office for Germany, Austria andSwitzerland. Werner Gamon will be joining to take responsibilityfor German-speaking markets, and to coordinate technical andcommercial resources for the full range of Advanced Input'scustom-designed complex user input subsystems. 'The qualityand depth of our technical and manufacturing expertise has beencritical to our success in the demanding German market,'comments Phil Bradshaw, European Sales and Marketing Manager,'Werner has the man-machine interface experience to bringthat real contribution to a much wider range of customers in theregion'.
Advanced Input Systems enables OEMs to outsourcecomplex user input subsystems, allowing system designers to focuson core competence issues, while ensuring access to the latesttechnologies whether keyboard, touch-screen, trackerball or moreadvanced proprietary technologies, backed up by off-shoremanufacturing when required.
As well as offering local supportfor responsive custom design activity, the new office will alsoprovide access to Advanced Input's latest 'AdvancedThruPut' IP-based programme for accelerated prototyping ofcustom interface electronics, saving valuable development timefor critical markets such as telecom and medical applications.About Advanced Input Systems Advanced Input Systems (AdvancedInput) specialises in the outsourced supply of user inputsub-systems.
Working from concept, through prototyping to volumemanufacture, Advanced Input offers decades of expertise in theselection and optimisation of keyboard, switch, user control anddisplay technologies within ergonomically designed enclosures.Advanced Input is not just a keyboard manufacturer, and istherefore not tied to a particular keyboard type.
In addition toneutral technology advice, Advanced Input offers access tore-useable interface IP (Intellectual Property) for fastdevelopment and smooth system integration.
As well as electronicsdevelopment, the complete custom enclosure service from AdvancedInput includes the industrial design, injection moulding andadvanced project management resources necessary to meet demandingdelivery schedules for complex systems.
ISO9001 certification,together with global support and services have helped to makeAdvanced Input a world leader in custom input integration forcritical applications such as medical equipment,telecommunications systems, industrial and portable devices.Advanced Input is part of the Interface Technologies Group ofEsterline Corporation of Bellevue, Washington, a public companywith expertise in the areas of input products, automatedmanufacturing equipment, and aerospace and defence components.
Specialist EMS provider Advanced Input Systems is expanding itsEuropean presence with a new office for Germany, Austria andSwitzerland. Werner Gamon will be joining to take responsibilityfor German-speaking markets, and to coordinate technical andcommercial resources for the full range of Advanced Input'scustom-designed complex user input subsystems. 'The qualityand depth of our technical and manufacturing expertise has beencritical to our success in the demanding German market,'comments Phil Bradshaw, European Sales and Marketing Manager,'Werner has the man-machine interface experience to bringthat real contribution to a much wider range of customers in theregion'.
Advanced Input Systems enables OEMs to outsourcecomplex user input subsystems, allowing system designers to focuson core competence issues, while ensuring access to the latesttechnologies whether keyboard, touch-screen, trackerball or moreadvanced proprietary technologies, backed up by off-shoremanufacturing when required.
As well as offering local supportfor responsive custom design activity, the new office will alsoprovide access to Advanced Input's latest 'AdvancedThruPut' IP-based programme for accelerated prototyping ofcustom interface electronics, saving valuable development timefor critical markets such as telecom and medical applications.About Advanced Input Systems Advanced Input Systems (AdvancedInput) specialises in the outsourced supply of user inputsub-systems.
Working from concept, through prototyping to volumemanufacture, Advanced Input offers decades of expertise in theselection and optimisation of keyboard, switch, user control anddisplay technologies within ergonomically designed enclosures.Advanced Input is not just a keyboard manufacturer, and istherefore not tied to a particular keyboard type.
In addition toneutral technology advice, Advanced Input offers access tore-useable interface IP (Intellectual Property) for fastdevelopment and smooth system integration.
As well as electronicsdevelopment, the complete custom enclosure service from AdvancedInput includes the industrial design, injection moulding andadvanced project management resources necessary to meet demandingdelivery schedules for complex systems.
ISO9001 certification,together with global support and services have helped to makeAdvanced Input a world leader in custom input integration forcritical applications such as medical equipment,telecommunications systems, industrial and portable devices.Advanced Input is part of the Interface Technologies Group ofEsterline Corporation of Bellevue, Washington, a public companywith expertise in the areas of input products, automatedmanufacturing equipment, and aerospace and defence components.
Wednesday, November 1, 2006
Vibratory Bowl Feeder For Feeding Special Caps
Elscint Automation, has recently manufactured a Vibratory Bowl Feeder for feeding of special Plastic Caps where the diameter of the Cap Head was equal to the Height of the Cap.
Elscint Automation, the ISO 9001:2000 certified Vibratory BowlFeeder Manufacturer from India recently manufactured a VibratoryBowl Feeder for feeding of special Plastic Caps where thediameter of the Cap Head was equal to the Height of the Cap. Dueto these dimensions, achieving the required orientation of OpenSide Facing Ground for the Caps was very difficult and in fact alot of bowl feeder manufacturers had informed their inability toorient the same. However, the experienced Bowl Tooling Engineersat Elscint developed a Bowl for feeding these types of Caps inprecisely the manner in which they were required at a very highfeed rate of 150 Caps per minute.
For this, the Elscint VibratoryBowl Feeder Model 400 was used.
Elscint Automation, the ISO 9001:2000 certified Vibratory BowlFeeder Manufacturer from India recently manufactured a VibratoryBowl Feeder for feeding of special Plastic Caps where thediameter of the Cap Head was equal to the Height of the Cap. Dueto these dimensions, achieving the required orientation of OpenSide Facing Ground for the Caps was very difficult and in fact alot of bowl feeder manufacturers had informed their inability toorient the same. However, the experienced Bowl Tooling Engineersat Elscint developed a Bowl for feeding these types of Caps inprecisely the manner in which they were required at a very highfeed rate of 150 Caps per minute.
For this, the Elscint VibratoryBowl Feeder Model 400 was used.
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