Manufacturing and design technology

Compact all-rounder grinding machine

Full-sequence machining for complex workpieces is achieved with the Multigrind CU. The smallest machine in the HAAS product line, the Multigrind CU accommodates abrasive wheels of up to 225mm (9") and workpieces of up to 180mm (7").

Since the coolant system and its two large tanks are integrated into the machine bed, the new model has a width 50mm less than its predecessor, the AF machine. Integrated robot function offers additional compactness and automation.

The CU has a tool changer with 9 to 14 positions, depending on the tool size, which loads from the front and offers 3x more capacity than its predecessor.

The compact design has the machine’s X-, Y- and Z-axis positioned at the top. The Y-axis runs along the side of the machine bed. Both the A-axis for rotating the workpiece and the machine table are attached to the C-axis. The C-axis also drives the circular tool magazine installed under the table. The gripper, which can load the machine from four integrated pallets, is installed on the Z-axis so that it can travel in the X, Y, and Z directions without the extra cost and floor space of a robot or any additional axes.

HAAS Multigrind LLC

www.multigrind.com

Linear motor-driven CMMs

The Revolution LM Series of air bearing bridge configuration CMMs delivers 5-axis measurement smoother and more quickly than conventional air bearing systems. Advanced measuring platforms fully equipped with next-generation, 5-axis probing technology provide 3x the productivity of conventional touch probe CMMs with 5x the scanning productivity.

The LM has been designed with linear motors instead of conventional belts and pulleys. Using a linear motor gives the LM virtually no need for maintenance, provides less downtime, and offers positioning accuracy in the submicron range. The lab-grade CMM is designed with advanced CAD design technology and features flexible and precise instruments for point-to-point mode or continuous measurements with contact sensors.

The Revolution LM can be equipped with Renishaw’s touch or scanning probes, including Renishaw’s PH20, and the REVO, which provides 3x the productivity of conventional touch/scanning probes, respectively.

AIMS Metrology

www.aimsmetrology.com

Process consistency for urethane extrusions

Thermoplastic urethanes (TPU) with PureEase technology offer improved extrusion processing control. This additive system was developed to maintain consistent processing parameters of validated TPU-based polymers and compounds, allowing tighter ID/OD tubing tolerances especially in small tubes.

Validated manufacturing processes for components such as tubes and films can be challenging for components made from TPUs due to process variability. PureEase technology improves process consistency and reduces dimensional variation of finished components.

PureEase technology is available in custom TPU-based compound formulations used in radiopaque filled tubing applications commonly used in central venous catheter tubing. It can also be beneficial in unfilled TPU polymers as well, in applications where tight tolerances are necessary such as wound care films.

Foster Corp.

www.fostercomp.com