General Machining & Manufacturing Processes

Vero Software has launched a new direct modelling system to fill the gap between CAD and CAM, focusing on the specific needs of machinist programmers. As a stand-alone, optional application for its CAM portfolio, Designer enables users to create new designs or modify existing geometry from third-party CAD systems.

Beckhoff announced the new EK1000 EtherCAT TSN Coupler, expanding the industrial Ethernet capabilities of the EtherCAT I/O system. The EK1000 enables communication among EtherCAT segments with remote EtherCAT controllers via heterogeneous Ethernet networks.

Walter has expanded its popular Paradur HT HSS-E blind-hole tap range by adding UNC thread dimensions. Previously available in dimensions M4-M36 and M10×1-M33×2, Walter has now expanded the range of the taps to include dimensions UNC 1/4-UNC 1.

Rethink Robotics announced the upcoming release of Intera 5.2, an expansion of its Intera software platform that provides critical data insights to manufacturers in real time.

The job training programs at Hononegah Community High School and Beloit Memorial High School include job shadowing, mentoring, summer apprenticeships and training workshops at cutting tool manufacturer Regal Cutting Tools, Roscoe, Ill.—but no internships. Working at Regal Cutting Tools means being considered a normal employee, not an intern, even if the worker is there part time and spending his or her days as a high school junior or senior. Although students are allowed time off for academic-related reasons, such as preparing for college admission tests, there are no exceptions for extracurricular activities, such as sports or clubs. "They need to make a decision whether they want to be part of that," said Plant Manager Dennis Weiland.

Beckhoff today announced the release of a new, ultracompact Industrial PC (IPC), the C6030. With flexible application options, the new series of space-saving Beckhoff IPCs that first launched with the C6015 has proven to be successful in the marketplace. With the addition of the new C6030 IPC, the advantages of dramatically reduced space requirements, universal applicability and easy installation are available for complex automation applications with high performance requirements.

Gliding e-chain cable carriers are typically used for travel lengths between 33 and 164 feet. However, more demanding requirements are currently being placed on these e-chain systems. The required dynamics of the systems are intensifying, and the loads that the chains must handle are increasing. This can cause gliding systems to reach their physical limits. For example, if the cycle rates of machines increase, energy chains must move faster as a result. Therefore, igus has expanded the standard modular system of the E4.1 e-chain series by adding new roller links.

Osborn introduced a second wave to its line of abrasive products. The line expansion includes additional depressed-center grinding discs, cut-off discs and flap discs.

Beckhoff Automation announced the incorporation of comprehensive image processing capabilities into its PC-based control system with new TwinCAT Vision software. TwinCAT unites a comprehensive range of machine functionality – PLC, motion control, robotics, high-end measurement technology, IoT, HMI and now machine vision – all in an end-to-end engineering and control platform.

Economic activity in the manufacturing sector expanded in November, and the overall economy grew for the 102nd consecutive month, say the nation's supply executives in the latest Manufacturing ISM Report On Business. The November PMI registered 58.2 percent, a decrease of 0.5 percentage point from the October reading of 58.7 percent. This indicates growth in manufacturing for the 15th consecutive month led by expansion in new orders and production, offset by supplier delivery improvement and declines in raw material Inventory.

Easily adaptable, Palmgren's 20-inch, variable-speed drill press allows the operator to select the best rpm for the tool and material without stopping the job. The ergonomic side-mounted hand wheel instantly adjusts the speeds.

Beckett Packaging offers a full line of Grip-Paks. Grip-Paks are individual packaging for endmills, drills, solid-carbide tools and other cutting tools.