Machine Tool Attachments & Accessories

An array of tools allows machine tools to work smarter--not harder.

Swiss-type CNC machines help shops meet the medical industry's needs.

Machining operations can be optimized with input from spindle manufacturers.

rotary transfer machines, rotary transfer, flexible production, machine tools

Many of the machine tool innovations at IMTS will be rooted in controls, software and ancillary products--not hardware.

Asking the right questions before purchasing a machine tool can help you avoid 'buyer's remorse.'

How a laser-calibration system evaluates and corrects CNC machine tools.

How to select a secondary spindle.

Let technology be your guide when selecting a CNC.

A look at the various types of CNC lathes available to shops contemplating stepping up from a manual machine. The pros and cons of the following lathes are discussed: combination, cutoff, slant-bed, twin-spindle and turn/mill. The author also touches on available options.

Part I: The author discusses how to maintain and repair machine tool spindles and what causes spindles to run out of round. Common sources of out-of-round spindles include loose bearings and improperly ground spacers. In-machine spindle repair is also discussed. Part II: There are three common ways to repair tapered toolholders: regrinding, replacing damaged material and chrome-plating. The author discusses each, along with its price, and gives advice about choosing an option.

DNC can mean either Direct Numeric Control or Distributed Numeric Control. Either way, a DNC links a shop's computers and machine tools and saves times. A DNC eliminates manual transcription of NC data, the downtime caused by shop personnel having to make programming entries and transporting part programs between engineering and their machines.