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A special electrical cabinet that lets users connect sensors to gather machine data

03/01/2016
Author:
William Leventon
Networking option: Could the introduction of a small electrical cabinet turn out to be a big step toward more widespread implementation of the Industrial Internet of Things? This special electrical cabinet, called the SmartBox, was developed by machine tool builder Mazak Corp., working in collaboration with networking equipment provider Cisco Systems Inc. The SmartBox is designed to overcome concerns about complexity and security that have led to resistance to connecting machine tools to a plantwide network.
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Testing, testing ...

03/01/2016
Author:
Evan Jones Thorne
How often should a metalworking fluid be tested? It depends. Metalworking fluid is used in most machine shops, because it aids in evacuating chips and cooling and lubricating the tool/workpiece interface. To optimize fluid performance, it must be maintained, which is done by testing a fluid for performance and chemistry. 
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Controlling the process

03/01/2016
Author:
Christopher Tate
Careful consideration when implementing inspection processes yields efficiencies. Manufacturers continually search for ways to increase profits and reduce costs. Trying to find cost savings where chips are made makes sense and is usually where the most-significant improvements are found. However, efficiency gains can also be made in nonvalue-adding areas, like inspection.
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Now hear this

Acoustic emission (AE) sensors detect ultrasonic sound waves emitted when the grinding wheel contacts a part or the dressing wheel and send that information to a process control unit. Monitoring the sound waves and comparing them with reference values allows operators to control the grinding and dressing processes. Variations in acoustic emissions indicate changes in cutting forces, which can then be modified. Some AE sensors are stationary while others rotate with the wheels. Electronic filters reduce or eliminate acoustic emissions from other nearby devices, such as bearings.

3D optical metrology

Focus Variation, the technique behind Alicona's Infinite Focus 3D optical metrology system, has enabled EDM Department, Bartlett, Ill., to measure and see what it is making down to 1.7µm tolerances. Watch this brief report to see the system in action and learn about how EDM Department implemented the system.