As the U turns: Turning Performance

Completing a part on one machine in a single setup reduces machining time, boosts throughput and can increase part accuracy by maintaining the concentricity between multiple part features. Seeing a need, KOMET of America Inc. offers the KomTronic U-axis system to turn complex contours on a machining center when working with a stationary workpiece, replacing separate machining on a lathe, said Mike Hunter, business development manager for the toolmaker.

The system replaces time-consuming circular machining, or “bottle boring,” he explained. The process involves entering the mouth of a bore that is smaller than the interior of the workpiece with a tool that has a retractable cutting edge. The tool circular interpolates the part feature, moving outward and down at the same time. “It’s hard to control tolerances that way,” Hunter said. “Our tool has an accuracy close enough to do trumpet profiles for pistons and connecting rods.”

Courtesy of KOMET of America

The KOMET KomTronic U-axis system enables turning contours on a machining center when working with a stationary workpiece, such as this turbocharger.