Tool Management

Indexable-insert tool repair can require a lot more than a manual machine. CNC machines and inspection equipment are often needed to effectively refurbish tools.

Should you outsource tool sharpening or do it in-house?

END USER: Hannon Electric Co., (330) 456-4728, www.hannonelectric.com. CHALLENGE: Achieving the required accuracy when machining large motor shafts held between centers on an engine lathe. SOLUTION: A re-engineered tailstock. SOLUTION PROVIDER: Riten Industries Inc., (800) 338-0027, www.riten.com

Advances in machine tool controls and software drive better maintenance.

It's never been easier to recycle cutting tools, which produces both cost savings and environmental benefits.

With a structured cutting tool repair program, significant cost savings are realized while tool quality remains intact.

END USER: Holmatro USA, (410) 768-9662, www.holmatro-usa.com. CHALLENGE: Maximize productivity by facilitating tool acquisition and application. SOLUTION: Electronic tool catalog and application recommendation software. SOLUTION PROVIDERS: Iscar Metals Inc., (888) ISCAR88, www.iscar.com/ita or www.iscarmetals.com

END USER: Alpha Machining and Grinding Inc., (704) 871-2183, www.alphamachiningandgrinding.com. CHALLENGE: Achieve cost savings through multiple process improvements. SOLUTION: Magnetic workholding and variable-index, variable-helix endmills. SOLUTION PROVIDERS: Alpha Workholding Solutions, (877) 217-6900, www.alphaworkholding.com; CGC Tools Inc., (866) 888-9600, www.cgctool.com; Turning Concepts, (704) 849-9209, www.turningconcepts.com

END USER: A large aerospace manufacturer. CHALLENGE: Avoid buying a new machine by retaining use of a 25-year-old lathe. SOLUTION: Rebuild the lathe and retrofit it with a new control. SOLUTION PROVIDER: Infinity Rebuild Inc., (704) 588-4995, www.infinityrebuild.com

END USER: Helac Corp., (800) 327-2589, www.helac.com. CHALLENGE: Reduce maintenance and programming time on a large vertical turning center. SOLUTION: Retrofit the VTC with a new CNC and AC digital-axis servodrives and servomotors. SOLUTION PROVIDER: MAG IAS LLC, (859) 534-4600, www.mag-ias.com