Machining

With the release of HyperConnect, Makino offers a suite of industrial internet of things (IIoT) applications for electrical discharge machines that enhances user experience and efficiency, and reduces machine downtime. Available on all Makino EDMs equipped with Hyper-i control systems, HyperConnect enables shop managers and operators to easily monitor and control EDM processes from any PC, smart device or other Hyper-i control systems on the network.

The latest release of VISI, from Vero Software, provides a wide variety of new and enhanced items of functionality for both CAD and CAM, specifically for the mold and die market. VISI 2018 R1 introduces a new Mold Tool module based on VISI's Assembly-Ng technology.

Seco Tools offers Secomax CS300 ceramic inserts and cutter bodies to boost productivity in milling and turning operations with heavy interrupted cuts on nickel-based heat-resistant superalloys (HRSA). The new cutters increase productivity by up to eight times over standard carbide milling and are ideal for machining a range of components for aerospace and power generation turbine segments, according to the company.

ANCA's EDGe-Spark erosion power generator controls the energy level of the eroding spark for optimal surface finish, material removal and cycle time. It also enables a double-ended HSK wheel spindle for eroding PCD and grinding carbide and HSS.

The structural steel industry is bracing for – and counting on – a huge increase in demand for structural steel products. The anticipated surge in demand arises from a renewed focus on improving the country's infrastructure, as well as a high level of private sector construction.

Sandvik Coromant Co. says the CoroPlus Collision detector is a reliable solution that will help you avoid or minimize machine tool and workpiece damage in case of a collision. The solution is installed inside the machine tool, connected to the PLC (programmable logic controller) and will detect a collision and stop the machine within 5 milliseconds.

Not every holemaking job requires a high-performance, solid-carbide or PCD-tipped drill with an advanced coating. For many, a HSS jobber drill will suffice.

CNC spindle maintenance is treated as a dirty, boring and often overlooked job. A clean spindle is essential for proper taper contact between the spindle and V-flange toolholder. Build-up of chips, dust, and oil in the spindle can jeopardize taper contact and result in premature wear, repair downtime and even CNC machine breakdown.

For the 10th episode of The CNC Chef, Bob Warfield of the CNCCookbook discusses the challenges presented when drilling deep holes. Among them: clearing the chips, getting coolant down deep, and holding tolerances on position, diameter and surface finish.

The 2018 R1 release of Alphacam, from Vero Software, includes considerable enhancements to automation and nesting functions. There is now the ability in Automation Manager to have a connection between "parent-child" parts, as job files can now be added to another job file as a sub-component. This enhances the management of parts that should be manufactured in groups.

The ORLAS CREATOR hybrid 3D printing and milling machine from O.R. Lasertechnology Inc. brings together the benefits of both additive manufacturing and subtractive manufacturing within a single platform to offer a comprehensive manufacturing solution.