Manufacturing technology

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RESPECTIVE COMPANIES

Sliding-headstock, fixed-headstock machining

Achieve fast and easy changeovers between sliding headstock and fixed-headstock operations with the TRAUB TNL20 automatic lathe. This allows manufacturers to perform Swiss-type machining and then quickly switch to using regular bar stock with fixed-headstock operation for parts with a smaller length-to-diameter ratio.

Capable of putting up to four tools in the cut simultaneously, the TNL20 provides very short cycle times while maintaining high levels of precision. The machine is built on a rugged, extremely rigid cast iron base and features a large vertically-oriented work area to provide free chip flow and maximize process reliability.

Identical fluid-cooled main and counter spindles provide 10,000rpm, 7.4hp (5.5kW) and 12.7 lb-ft (17.2Nm). The work spindle provides a draw tube clearance of 1.14" (29mm), allowing the use of a standing reduction tube for bar stock diameters of up to 0.79" (20mm).

Three variations of the TNL20 are available. The standard TNL20-9 provides simultaneous and precise machining with up to three tools. The TNL20-9B incorporates a B-axis to enable the machining of highly complex part geometries. The TNL20-11 provides an additional front working attachment enabling simultaneous machining with up to four tools for even higher productivity.

For easily integrated automation, the TNL20 is available with the iXcenter integrated robotic cell. Docked to the machine and easily slid aside to enable unobstructed access to the work area, iXcenter incorporates up to 22 vertically stacked pallets. Blanks are loaded at the top of the system, while pallets containing finished parts can be removed at the bottom. Loading and unloading can take place at any time without interruption to the machining process. Additionally, the cell can incorporate secondary processes, such as cleaning, measuring, deburring, and more.

INDEX
https://www.index-group.com/en_us/products/sliding-headstock-machines/traub-tnl20

Drill line

The Tornado line of expert internal coolant drills from Louis Bélet is suited for all fields where stainless steel is used. Machining of stainless grades, such as martensitic and austenitic, is often slow and prone to errors. The Tornado (REF .376-10) achieves depths of up to 10xD and at rates 3x to 4x faster than previous drills. It also eliminates the need for pecking, resulting in smoother, more productive operations.

Additionally, there’s a Tornado REF .336H designed to produce a pilot hole for the REF .376H-10, eliminating the need for a centering or deburring device. It can be used with or without a chamfer.

The Tornado drills are designed with a compression chamber minimizing coolant pressure loss, improving efficiency and accuracy with the drills able to hold concentricity of <0.003mm at the drill tip. Additionally, the lube holes’ increased surface area and their specific shape enable these drills to achieve 3x the throughput compared to previous generations.

To tackle complex stainless steels and even superalloys such as CoCr (Phynox), Louis Bélet developed a micro-grain carbide specifically for stainless steel applications. The titanium-silicon (TISI) coating reduces friction, decreases heat buildup, and prevents burr formation for longer tool life. The unique cutting-edge preparation also ensures optimal coating adhesion and durability for longer tool life.

Star Cutter’s marketing, sales, and service affiliate, Star SU, is the exclusive representative of Louis Bélet SA (Switzerland) precision cutting tools in North America.

STAR SU / LOUIS BÉLET
https://www.star-su.com/partners-brands/louis-belet

Automated workholding changeover

The AC (automated change) Line for automated workholding changeover sets new standards in manufacturing efficiency and precision. The AC Line represents a paradigm shift in workholding technology, offering manufacturers a seamless and error-free alternative to manual changeovers. By harnessing automation, the AC Line streamlines transitions between workholding devices with speed and accuracy, reducing downtime and enhancing overall productivity, empowering manufacturers to maximize their machining capabilities.

Key features of the AC Line include:

• Precision automation: The AC Line’s precision-engineered automation ensures consistent and reliable changeovers, eliminating human error, optimizing machining processes
• Automated clamping heads, end-stops: The AC Line automates clamping heads (collets) and end-stops, enhancing operational efficiency, accuracy
• User-friendly interface: An intuitive interface allows operators to program quickly, enhancing operational efficiency
  
• Versatile adaptability: From varying part geometries to diverse materials and machining techniques, the AC Line adapts to meet a range of production requirements

HAINBUCH AMERICA
https://www.hainbuchamerica.com