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Complex tool grinder
PC control
Grinder features PC control with Pentium processor, 17创
color screen, and flexible software for grinding complex tools. The vertical
tool spindle design, with its grinding point close to the swivel axis, ensures
rigidity, ideal axis movements, and easy loading and unloading. Digital
drives and infinite variable grinding spindle speeds are designed for precision
operation and greater productivity. Deckel Grinders Inc, Waterbury,
CT.
http://www.accugrind.com/deckel.html
Automatic pallet system
Pallet system automatically exchanges a pallet or fixture at a CNC machining
center in seconds. Includes a two-station shuttle unit mounted at the machine's
side which allows pallets to be end-loaded. According to the manufacturer,
rigid air design and automatic air blast ensure reliable performance with
0.0002创 positioning accuracy. Also, pallet transfer is completed
without operator involvement, maximizing safety. Models able to handle 1000
lb are available. Midaco Corp, Elk Grove Village, IL.
http://www.midaco-corp.com
CNC milling/drilling
optimization device
Productivity and tool utilization
According to the manufacturer, OptiMil constantly monitors metal-cutting
conditions and adjusts feedrate in real time to the highest possible level.
The real-time control allows for automatic optimization of the machining
process. The device increases tool utilization and can be connected to virtually
any CNC machine. If there is resistance, OptiMil will reduce the feedrate
and, if necessary, stop the machine to avoid damaging the cutting tools,
workpiece, or machine. OMAT Control Technologies, Jerusalem, Israel.
http://www.omat.co.il
CNC machine-tool control
According to the manufacturer, OpenCNC is the only unbundled software-control
application that can be used on any generic PC to date. The open-architecture,
software-based CNC machine-tool control allows manufacturers to integrate
and network their enterprise-wide manufacturing systems. The control maximizes
machine-tool life, and reduces production downtime due to control failures.
Manufacturing Data Systems Inc, Ann Arbor, MI.
http://www.mdsi2.com
CNC tube-bending machine
Fast, powerful
This tube-bending machine uses electric servodrive motors instead of
hydraulics. The result, according to the manufacturer, is the fastest, most
powerful, most accurate 3创 (76mm) electric tube bender in existence.
The machine has a bend torque of 180,000+inches/lb--higher, reportedly,
than any other 3创 bender. The manufacturer also claims that
the machine's bend speed is higher than any other 3创 bender
at 30 rpm. Adaptive Motion Control Systems, Wixom, MI.
Seam tracker system
Precise, reliable, durable
Seam tracker system for robotic arc welding is, according to the manufacturer,
fully integrated from sensing to maintenance; easy to program, operate,
and maintain; and has added features. Designed for thin and thick sheet-metal-arc
welding, the system reduces trimming and fixturing requirements. The LaserTrack
2 is programmed with integrated software and has improved tracking and an
integrated turning unit. Selcom Inc, Southfield, MI.
http://www.selcom.se
High-speed HMCs
Shorter cycle times
For production of large parts, two high-speed HMCs feature two 50-taper
spindle choices with a gear speed of 10,000 rpm or integral motor speed
of 15,000 rpm. To blast away chips and keep cutting-edge temperatures down,
the HMCs have 250-psi coolant delivery. Completing the high-speed packages,
a high-pressure wash system keeps pallet and fixture virtually chip-free,
according to the manufacturer. Magnum 800HS handles part dia up to 51.2创,
heights up to 45.3创, and weights up to 4847 lb/pallet. Larger
Magnum 1000HS expands part-dia capacity to 61创, heights to
53.1创, and weights to 6600 lb/pallet. Cincinnati Milacron,
Cincinnati, OH.
http://www.milacron.com
Automation package
Saves time, simplifies installation
Robot docking system saves time and simplifies installation of welding
automation systems. The RDS package comes with a welding automation robot,
welding interface, power source, and if necessary, a cooling system. Designed
for convenience, the equipment is prewired and interconnected so an entire
system can be installed, added to, or relocated and in production within
one day, according to the manufacturer. ITW Welding Automation, Appleton,
WI.
http://www.millerweld.com
Compaction system
Lowers disposal costs
Line of CTI compaction systems offers drum crushing or in-drum compaction.
The ECO8040 delivers compaction ratios of four-or-five to one. It features
a two-stage hydraulic system that runs cool for longer service life. The
system operates at 115V or 230V, single phase AC. A drum-crushing option
includes custom hydraulics and a crushing insert that reduces the height
of a 55-gal drum to 4创. Haz-Stor, Des Plaines, IL.
Gantry center
Designed for complex machining of large molds, dies, tools, and fixtures,
this system combines speed, compactness, and rigidity. According to the
manufacturer, large parts can be digitized at high speeds. The feed-design
information in the CAD/CAM systems allow for milling the parts at the same
location. It is available with a two- or three-axis head with spindle speeds
up to 32,000 rpm. Shorter tools can be used with easier and more accurate
positioning of the head. Dayton Machine Tool Co, Dayton, OH.
http://www.dmt.industry.net

This article was originally published in the November 1997 issue of Metlfax.
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