General Machining & Manufacturing Processes

A full line of pneumatic rolling motors and tube expanders for straight-, flare-, long-reach and beaded rolls that prevent over and under expansion are available for sale or rent from Esco Tool.

As part of a global business initiative, seven business schools from around the world, including Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business, the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, and the Graduate School of Business at Stanford University, executed a multi-year research effort focusing on current practices and strategies associated with the sourcing of production and trends in a global supply chain.

BIG KAISER introduces a series of new micro engraving cutters developed and built by its partner Sphinx (Derendingen, Switzerland). Building on Sphinx's microtooling expertise, the solid-carbide engraving cutters' sharp, positive cutting geometry promotes burr-free surface finishes and smooth transitions.

For most manufacturers, the productivity of their CNC equipment can be measured in fractions of seconds when it comes to things like cutting or grinding cycle times and the intervals between tool changes. The performance of the spindle—the workhorse of the CNC machine—has a dramatic impact on that productivity.

Overheated cutting edges cause chip welding, tool chipping and ultimately decreased tool life. To compensate, operators frequently reduce spindle speeds or increase their consumption of cutting tools. Both options prove inefficient, as machining takes longer and the expense of constantly replacing dull tools can drain your bank account. The HAIMER Cool Flash system, based on the existing Cool Jet system for shrink-fit holders, was designed to guarantee an optimal coolant supply, even at the highest spindle speed, according to the company.

Aerotech's QNPHD linear piezo nanopositioning stages provide the benefits of both a stage and actuator in one compact, high-stiffness package. With a direct-metrology, capacitive sensor feedback option, high resonant frequencies, and high load capacity, the QNPHD is ideal for a range of high-speed and high-precision applications, such as scanning probe microscopy, disc-drive testing and semiconductor wafer articulation.

For cost-effective, customizable robotic systems, igus has further updated the Robolink D modular robotic kit with new strain wave gearings in two installation sizes. The gearing, available as an individual component or with integrated NEMA motor, consists of an outer ring gear and flexible, wear-resistant inner ring gear made from self-lubricating, wear resistant iglide plastic.

Enshu USA offers the WE30Ve vertical machining center. With its evenly distributed rigid bridge structure and 12,000-rpm BT30 spindle, the WE30Ve is ideal for the high-speed, high-precision machining of small to medium sized parts.

Eriez suspended magnets, drum magnets and AIP magnetic pulleys are used to safely and efficiently recover ferrous metals. Technological advancements in separation equipment enable recovery of valuable ferrous and nonferrous metals less than 1-inch (2.54 cm) in diameter from the fines waste stream.

Wiha Tools has introduced TorqueControl SoftFinish Pistol Ratchets. Overtightening the screw is eliminated by the Wihanreliable torque technology. There's a distinctly audible and perceptible click signal when torque is reached.

Tebis America announced the launch of its Version 4.0 Release 2 CAD/CAM software. This new launch is especially well-suited to the rough machining of deep cavities and is effective for hard material machining as well. In roughing, the DOC and the best utilization of cutting data ensure fast and cost-effective manufacturing while keeping tool costs low.

The 2016 World Cutting Tool Conference offered informative, entertaining speakers and social events that provided ample opportunities to meet with and learn from colleagues from around the world.