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.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
High value offered in manual and CNC lathes
Manual and CNC lathes include three 'value-for-money' models of heavy duty, geared head manual lathes with 400mm, 500mm and 560mm swing-over-bed dimensions respectively.
MACH 2006 sees the world launch of a completely new range of 'value' manual and CNC lathes from 600 Group - the Clausing CV-Series. Three of these affordable, versatile lathes will be shown to MACH visitors on Clausing's stand (Hall 4, Stand 4578), with new and existing UK-based distributors having the first opportunity in Europe to offer the new machines to their customers. Based in Michigan, USA, Clausing Industrial , is a world-leading machine tool manufacturer and importer, which has been part of 600 Group - the UK's largest machine tool company - for over 20 years.
Clausing's latest CV-Series lathes are products resulting from a 600DMTG project which is a collaboration between 600 Group, its specialist subsidiary 600 Lathes, Clausing and 600 Group's manufacturing partner Dalian Machine Tool Group (DMTG), based in China.
All the new export-quality lathes are being built to 600 Group's performance specification and every machine will pass through 600 Group's own pre-delivery quality inspection process at the factory in China.
The Clausing CV-Series machines will be available in the UK market within four to six weeks after MACH 2006, and will be launched in the USA later this year.
Clausing CV-Series Heavy Duty Geared Head Lathes The new Clausing CV-Series will consist of three value-for-money models of heavy duty, geared head manual lathes with 400mm (16in), 500mm (20in) and 560mm (22in) swing-over-bed dimensions respectively.
Machines will be available in the UK with a choice of distances between centres, namely 1m (1000mm/40in) 1.5m (1500mm/60in) and 2m (2000mm/80in).
All versions feature large spindle bores 105mm (4.13in across the range), high-precision Gamet tapered roller bearings, hardened and ground heavy duty head stock gears and the flexibility of 16 spindle speeds, ranging from 26-1700 rev/min.
Further standard technical features of Clausing CV-Series manual lathes are as follows.
* Spindle bearings, gears and shafts lubricated by a forced lubrication system.* Easy-to-read index plate for fast selection of the correct feed or thread.* Extra-wide bedways 395mm (15.5in) for maximum accuracy and minimal wear.* Chuck guard, saddle-mounted chip guard, full splash guard and leadscrew cover.* Clutch drive, reverse leadscrew with spindle turning for faster thread cutting.* Clutches operated by levers on apron and headstock for forward/reverse.* Wide range of standard and optional accessories Options include quick-change tool-post and digital read-out.
Clausing CNC CV-Series Lathes Engineered for CNC performance, wedded to maximum affordability and versatility to handle a wide variety of turning applications, the new Clausing CNC CV-Series machines being unveiled at MACH 2006 are available in four models with 350mm (14in), 400mm (16in), 500mm (20in) or 560mm (22in) swing-over-bed.
As with the manual Clausing CV models, the two larger CNC machines offer customers a choice of three distances between centres, namely 1m (1000mm/40in), 1.5m (1500mm/60in) and 2m (2000mm/in).
The new series is equipped with the advanced FANUC Oi-TC Mate control system, offering great value and reliability, to simplify operation and maximize productivity.
All Clausing CNC CV-Series lathes benefit from heavy duty, flat-bed construction, a wide range of variable spindle speeds with automatic speed range change for more efficient parts turning and horizontal four-position electrical toolpost, among a host of advanced, standard features.
Ideal for first-time CNC buyers and workshops wanting to increase output - as well as operators such as education and training facilities requiring a low-cost lathe with CNC facilities normally only found on higher priced machines, the brand new Clausing CV-Series is especially suited to producing highly accurate one-offs and low-to-medium production runs.
Stephen Le Beau, product strategy and marketing director of 600 Group, said: 'These exciting new Clausing CV lathes have been developed with the expertise of three leaders in the world machine tool industry - 600 Group, Clausing and DMTG - which means customers can order with total confidence.
They represent a fantastic opportunity to acquire the latest quality-built, advanced design lathes at a highly attractive and affordable price.' The launch of the Clausing CV-Series at MACH 2006 means that lathes featuring 600 Group's long-established know-how, reliability and technical excellence are now within the reach of many more tool-rooms and workshops than ever before.
They offer true value for money.
Clausing CV-Series lathes making their world debut at MACH 2006 will be the CV-1640 and CV-2280 manual lathes and the CV-2060 CNC The Clausing stand at MACH will be staffed by Clausing Industrial , and 600 Group personnel from 600 Machinery International who will be pleased to meet potential new distributors for the Clausing CV-Series lathes, and details of product pricing, full specifications and availability will be supplied.
MACH 2006 sees the world launch of a completely new range of 'value' manual and CNC lathes from 600 Group - the Clausing CV-Series. Three of these affordable, versatile lathes will be shown to MACH visitors on Clausing's stand (Hall 4, Stand 4578), with new and existing UK-based distributors having the first opportunity in Europe to offer the new machines to their customers. Based in Michigan, USA, Clausing Industrial , is a world-leading machine tool manufacturer and importer, which has been part of 600 Group - the UK's largest machine tool company - for over 20 years.
Clausing's latest CV-Series lathes are products resulting from a 600DMTG project which is a collaboration between 600 Group, its specialist subsidiary 600 Lathes, Clausing and 600 Group's manufacturing partner Dalian Machine Tool Group (DMTG), based in China.
All the new export-quality lathes are being built to 600 Group's performance specification and every machine will pass through 600 Group's own pre-delivery quality inspection process at the factory in China.
The Clausing CV-Series machines will be available in the UK market within four to six weeks after MACH 2006, and will be launched in the USA later this year.
Clausing CV-Series Heavy Duty Geared Head Lathes The new Clausing CV-Series will consist of three value-for-money models of heavy duty, geared head manual lathes with 400mm (16in), 500mm (20in) and 560mm (22in) swing-over-bed dimensions respectively.
Machines will be available in the UK with a choice of distances between centres, namely 1m (1000mm/40in) 1.5m (1500mm/60in) and 2m (2000mm/80in).
All versions feature large spindle bores 105mm (4.13in across the range), high-precision Gamet tapered roller bearings, hardened and ground heavy duty head stock gears and the flexibility of 16 spindle speeds, ranging from 26-1700 rev/min.
Further standard technical features of Clausing CV-Series manual lathes are as follows.
* Spindle bearings, gears and shafts lubricated by a forced lubrication system.* Easy-to-read index plate for fast selection of the correct feed or thread.* Extra-wide bedways 395mm (15.5in) for maximum accuracy and minimal wear.* Chuck guard, saddle-mounted chip guard, full splash guard and leadscrew cover.* Clutch drive, reverse leadscrew with spindle turning for faster thread cutting.* Clutches operated by levers on apron and headstock for forward/reverse.* Wide range of standard and optional accessories Options include quick-change tool-post and digital read-out.
Clausing CNC CV-Series Lathes Engineered for CNC performance, wedded to maximum affordability and versatility to handle a wide variety of turning applications, the new Clausing CNC CV-Series machines being unveiled at MACH 2006 are available in four models with 350mm (14in), 400mm (16in), 500mm (20in) or 560mm (22in) swing-over-bed.
As with the manual Clausing CV models, the two larger CNC machines offer customers a choice of three distances between centres, namely 1m (1000mm/40in), 1.5m (1500mm/60in) and 2m (2000mm/in).
The new series is equipped with the advanced FANUC Oi-TC Mate control system, offering great value and reliability, to simplify operation and maximize productivity.
All Clausing CNC CV-Series lathes benefit from heavy duty, flat-bed construction, a wide range of variable spindle speeds with automatic speed range change for more efficient parts turning and horizontal four-position electrical toolpost, among a host of advanced, standard features.
Ideal for first-time CNC buyers and workshops wanting to increase output - as well as operators such as education and training facilities requiring a low-cost lathe with CNC facilities normally only found on higher priced machines, the brand new Clausing CV-Series is especially suited to producing highly accurate one-offs and low-to-medium production runs.
Stephen Le Beau, product strategy and marketing director of 600 Group, said: 'These exciting new Clausing CV lathes have been developed with the expertise of three leaders in the world machine tool industry - 600 Group, Clausing and DMTG - which means customers can order with total confidence.
They represent a fantastic opportunity to acquire the latest quality-built, advanced design lathes at a highly attractive and affordable price.' The launch of the Clausing CV-Series at MACH 2006 means that lathes featuring 600 Group's long-established know-how, reliability and technical excellence are now within the reach of many more tool-rooms and workshops than ever before.
They offer true value for money.
Clausing CV-Series lathes making their world debut at MACH 2006 will be the CV-1640 and CV-2280 manual lathes and the CV-2060 CNC The Clausing stand at MACH will be staffed by Clausing Industrial , and 600 Group personnel from 600 Machinery International who will be pleased to meet potential new distributors for the Clausing CV-Series lathes, and details of product pricing, full specifications and availability will be supplied.
Budget-priced lathes and millers introduced
A budget priced series of turret millers and lathes, with prices starting at GBP 4950 for a milling machine are fitted with European bearings and electrical components, and all have CE approval.
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.
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.
Precision CNC toolroom lathe works manually too
A compact precision toolroom lathe has full CNC, but can also be operated manually - the machine's distance between centers is 18in, cross-slide travel is 8in and spindle speed is 0-3000 rev/min.
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.
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.
Manual/CNC lathe has large 104mm spindle bore
A manual/CNC lathe has a large 104mm spindle bore, which combined with a 560mm swing over bed and a choice of 1000mm, 1750mm or 3000mm between centres, gives maximum flexibility.
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.
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.
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.
Operations software boosts manual/CNC lathe usage
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.
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.
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