CNC Machining (General)

Tormach Inc. has introduced a software upgrade to its PathPilot CNC software package that offers premium functionality standard, at no cost. In addition, Tormach is introducing its new 'TRY PathPilot' program that allows new users to program, learn and train on the program for free.

Mazak Corp. has further enhanced the VTC-300C Vertical Machining Center with the addition of the MAZATROL SmoothG CNC and its suite of SMOOTH TECHNOLOGY software solutions. The new control complements the VTC-300C's full traveling-column design, automatic tool changer and powerful 40-taper spindle, all of which combine to enable fast cycle times and accurate machining for extremely long and heavy workpieces in industries such as construction, agriculture and energy production.

BLM Group USA announces the availability of its all-electric DH4010VGP wire bending machine featuring twin turrets and twin heads capable of doubling productivity and/or completing highly complex wire bending jobs. The DH4010VGP is especially well-suited for medium-to-long part lengths with multiple bends, symmetric parts and parts that close back onto themselves. The machine cuts wire free from the coil prior to the bending operation, eliminating twisting that can occur when working from coil to deliver perfectly flat bent wire parts.

Hardinge announces the expansion of its Swiss-style collets and bushings production cell. Over the past several years, CNC Swiss-type lathes, predominant in medical and electronics applications, have become increasingly popular across a variety of other applications.

Looking to drill, bore, cut, or make slots? Look no further than the extensive DMV series of milling machines in stock in Philadelphia and ready to ship from KAAST Machine Tools. Offering both bed-type and knee mills with either manual or CNC options, this Taiwanese series provides high-quality performance.

FlexArm Inc. introduces the GH-60 hydraulic tapping arm with capacity to 2 inches, even in laser cut holes. This versatile, robust design has a reach from 20 to 85" and operates at 55 or 275 rpm to deliver torque up to 811 ft./lbs.

Schütte now sells its PC multiple-spindle automatics. Often, manufacturers need automatics that have greater capabilities. These include the machining of nonferrous metal or steel, a combination of heavy roughing and accuracy, simple programming combined with versatility and a single machine that performs several production processes. The answer to these challenges is Schütte's PC series.

SmartCAMcnc has announced the release of SmartCAM v2019. The SmartCAM CAM software family consists of applications for CNC milling, turning, fabrication and wire EDM.

JETCAM International s.a.r.l. announced the release of JETCAM Orders Controller (JOC) Premium and Premium Automation v3.15, with several new features. The JOC product range is an accompaniment to the JETCAM Expert nesting system, allowing remote generation of tooled component files or dynamic nests of ordered components. In addition, it provides features such as part costing, easy data exchange with external systems (such as MRP) and comprehensive nest reporting features.

Screw unions on thin walled materials require complex additional operations like e.g. the welding on of a nut. The so called flow drilling process can form the thread directly in the arising passage, thereby making this additional operation unnecessary. Suhner and Flowdrill are collaborating in this field of specialized technology. Thermal flow drilling uses a Flowdrill tool to produce passages several times the thickness of the thin walled material.

Safety in design is critical to CNC milling operations end products, as well as to the machine's profitability. As the trajectory of today's new milling technology trends toward machines producing extremely high speeds/high rpm within a smaller overall foot print–potential safety issues can't be ignored. Loose tools moving fast could present the potential for a lot of damage to the machine and workpiece.

HEIDENHAIN's newest multimedia online CNC learning program called HIT 3.0 is now available. HIT stands for "HEIDENHAIN Interactive Training" and is used for providing advanced and apprentice-level skilled training for NC users utilizing HEIDENHAIN TNC protocols.