Machining

Tsugami/Rem Sales announced the release of four next-generation Tsugami CNC machines. The new models represent the third generation of Tsugami's opposed gang tool CNC lathes and are identified with a "-III" after their base model numbers. Newly released models include the B0125-III, B0126-III (pictured), B0205-III and the B0206-III.

Kent USA's best-selling vertical machining center is the KVR-2418A. This competitively priced vertical machining center has proven to be a reliable turnkey solution to many job shops, die and mold makers, and production facilities for years, according to the company.

Walter has introduced the Walter BLAXX M3016, a heavy-duty milling cutter with the ruggedness and power needed to make heavy cuts seem easy. The M3016 tackles ISO material groups P, M and K, and difficult applications such as machining frames made from cast iron for large molds, or housings for wind energy rotor hubs.

MK Tools' solid-carbide round tools from Monaghan Tooling Group introduces new "Speed-Drill R4" geometry, reportedly offering unparalleled cutting speeds and unprecedented tool life in gray cast iron, ductile iron and forged steel—all popular materials in automotive engine and chassis components.

Weldon Solutions says its Midas pinion gear shaft OD CNC grinder features the first use of an optical gage system in an automated production environment. This system uses optics to measure multiple diameters and lengths on a large family of pinion shafts.

The latest addition to the extensive machine offering from Schneeberger, the new Aries NGP answers to the need for an affordable tool grinder with all the power of a big machine. Aries NGP offers almost 10-hp, duty-rated power with a direct-drive, double-ended spindle and the accuracy of HSK 50 wheel arbor interface.

END USER: Crowley Tool Co., (615) 824-5594, www.crowleytool.com. SOLUTION PROVIDER: Schütte LLC, (800) 668-4035, www.schutteusa.com. CHALLENGE: Enhance reliability when grinding round tools. SOLUTION: A new 5-axis CNC tool and cutter grinder with linear-drive technology.

END USER: Van's Manufacturing Inc., (805) 522-6267. SOLUTION PROVIDER: Omegasonics, (888) 989-5560, www.omegasonics.com. CHALLENGE: Reduce the time and cost to clean machined parts. SOLUTION: An ultrasonic parts cleaner with a filtration pump.

Want a good reason for lubricating the moving parts of machine tools? Here's one from Klüber Lubrication NA LP, Londonderry, N.H., a developer of specialty lubricants: Lubrication of machine tool components minimizes wear. "When a component in a machining center wears—whether it's a spindle bearing, a ball-screw, a gear or whatever—you start to lose precision," said Steve Mazzola, Klüber's director of engineering.

The expression "There's more than one way to skin a cat" certainly applies to machining. A young programmer in our shop is constantly being run in circles by the whims of those in authority. Newcomers are in a difficult position; they not only lack experience, they generally want to please everybody.

I generally consider myself to be a positive person. However, these past few weeks have tested my resolve. It's not the roller-coaster daily life as a machine shop owner, but the stark reality of losing employees and friends to serious illness that's been especially hard to take. Thankfully, illness doesn't always mean death.

Every parts manufacturer, regardless of size, has some sort of training program, and programs are nearly as varied as the companies themselves. Whether it's something as simple as handing out a pamphlet about company policy or as involved as an apprenticeship program, it's just a given: Where there are employees, there is training.