Implanting success

Digital integration system

Real-time manufacturing data from Mazak’s SmartBox improves productivity and responsiveness to customer/market changes. Using MTConnect technology, SmartBox connectivity of machines and devices enables enhanced monitoring and analytics including advanced cybersecurity protection. SmartBox works with any machine.

Using Cisco’s Connected Machines, an Industrial Internet of Things solution coupled with a fog-computing model, MT Connect software runs directly on the Cisco Industrial Ethernet (IE) 4000 switch. Cisco hardware helps prevent unauthorized access to or from the machines and equipment within a network. SmartBox also satisfies security concerns of IT departments when connecting legacy equipment to a plant’s main network to gather manufacturing data via the MTConnect protocol.

The Cisco networking platform ensures that IT technicians will be familiar with SmartBox’s operation and network security. The hardware allows machine communications through secure access and identity policy mechanisms. Third parties, such as equipment suppliers, then log on to a company’s network and access only those machines equipped with a Mazak SmartBox.

Mazak Corp.
www.mazakusa.com

Tool spindles

Live tool spindles have been developed to complement high-speed, high-torque tool turrets used on many NL, NT, NZ, and DuraTurn series machines. These turrets use a high-performance tool drive and a transmission driven by an integral direct-drive motor with minimal heat transfer and vibration.

Many tool spindles have universal drive shafts for right- and left-hand use, and are designed with internal coolant up to 1,100psi to help keep the tools cool and rapidly clear chips from the work zone.

Features

• Precision alignment surfaces
• High quality precision bevel gear drives
• Pre-stressed spindle bearings for high-speed and high-torque cutting operations

ITI Tooling Co. Inc.
www.ititooling.com

High-speed 5-axis software

Updated PowerMILL robot software allows combined manual and CNC programming of robots in a single program. Supported robots include KUKA, ABB, Fanuc, Yaskawa Motoman, Stäbuli, Hyundai, Comau, Kawasaki Robot, Nachi, and Universal Robots, eliminating the need for third-party translation software.

Users can duplicate teach-and-learn programming of the robot for linking moves in the virtual environment. The model robot on the computer can be jogged between positions where machining is to take place, similar to the movement of the arm in the real environment. The programmed linking moves can then be integrated with the cutting moves to give the complete sequence of operations.

This approach will be necessary in cases where there are additional objects in the real world that are not included in the CAD model of the part, such as the clamps or fixture being used to hold the item.

Features

• Collision checking in one operation
• Automatic avoidance of wrist singularities
• Generates robot programs from tape files produced in other CAM software
• Programming for tool- to-part applications

Delcam
www.delcam.com

TIGO SF optimized for fully automated measurement

TIGO SF shop floor CMM integrates into fully automated in-line or near-the-line inspection cells, or as part of a complete production/inspection setup. The machine’s structure is open on three sides for accessibility and usable with robotic part-handling or automatic workpiece recognition systems. An optional I/O kit enables the CMM to interface directly with automated lines and exchange data with programmable logic controllers. Measurement data can inform process improvements as part of a wider product lifecycle management system.

The air-free TIGO SF is protected from contaminants by covers and bellows. The CMM also features advanced thermal compensation and passive damping systems. Active damping can be added to enable installation near machining centers or part-transit areas.

FYI
With a measurement volume of 500mm x 580mm x 500mm and shop floor specific features, the TIGO SF is designed to measure small- to medium-sized parts.

Hexagon Metrology
www.hexagonmetrology.com

End mill holders

Tru Position end mill holders use an internal eccentric grinding technique that reduces runout capability. The toolholder offers less runout for a more even chip load, less chatter, and fewer tool passes to mill slots because of improved on-center rotation. Machine time savings and improved machining quality are also achieved.

Briney Tooling Systems
www.brineytooling.com

Fluid line for all markets

Cimpulse 51MP, Cimpulse 45MP, and Cimpulse 33MP – fluids in the Cimcool family – are multifunctional, allowing metalworking shops to use one fluid in the entire shop. For use in high-pressure systems and standard flood applications, the metalworking fluids use a hybrid blend of lubricants to deliver mix stability, reduced tool wear, and long sump life. Cimpulse 51MP is a multipurpose non-chlorinated, triazine-free fluid that provides users high-pressure foam and corrosion control.

FYI
In testing, Cimpulse 51MP delivered better results compared to traditional fluids, including:

• 10% better cutting forces
• 10% better grinding ratios
• 20% lower foaming in high pressure foam tests

Cimcool Fluid Technology
www.milacron.com

Pick-and-place unit

The PPU-E 15 high speed, linear-motor-driven pick-and-place unit for small part assembly has a width of 60mm and media supply via the back panel. It allows several units to mounted side by side. If rotary indexing tables are used, more units can be arranged in a circle, or a smaller table diameter can be used.

Schunk USA
www.schunk.com

Thread milling NC code generator software

ThreadPro generates codes for complex machining. The configuration of multiple paths is now adjustable and has been simplified to enable zero-cut programs. In addition to multiple-feed use, single-feed for machining high hardness materials – one pitch per cut – is also available. The capability to review machining trajectory offers tool movement confirmation to minimize tool damage.

ThreadPro is available in 12 languages and supports eight NC programming languages. The software incorporates individual radius programming (RPRG) value to reduce setup, machining time, and achieve stable tool life.

OSG USA Inc.
www.osgtool.com

Full grip jaws

Heat-treatable and weldable steel jaws allow for complete workpiece gripping to maintain repetitive accuracy. The jaw reduces distortion and provides more friction for drive during turning operations. With close tolerances and concentricity easily maintained, they are for applications such as valves, cylinders, specialty wheels and gears, housings and enclosures, adaptors and connectors, aluminum and steel shells, flanges, and retainer rings.

Dillon Manufacturing Inc.
www.dillonmfg.com